JP2024518102A - Hook-to-Hook Fasteners - Google Patents

Abstract

The fastener includes a base, a plurality of hooks extending from the base and dimensioned to receive corresponding hooks of the plurality of hooks of another fastener, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base and dimensioned to receive corresponding ribs of the plurality of ribs of the other fastener.
[Selected figure] Figure 2

Description

The present disclosure relates to a fastening assembly comprising an elongated flexible fastener. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a fastener for joining mating surfaces of one or more articles (e.g., a bag opening for storing perishable goods or a tonneau cover for a pickup truck).

Fastener assemblies including hooks are useful for joining two opposing surfaces (e.g., of clear plastic food storage bags). However, such fastener assemblies, including "hook-to-hook" fastener assemblies, may lack proper sealing capabilities. In these and other end uses, improper sealing may cause the contents of the sealed package or other container to leak from the package or container, or may allow contaminants and/or air to undesirably leak into the package or container. In the case of food storage, such leakage may contribute to freshness problems for the food. In the case of storing other items, such leakage may contribute to more rapid deterioration of the stored items.

It should be understood that this summary is not intended to provide an extensive overview of the disclosure. This summary is illustrative and not limiting, and is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure or to delineate the scope thereof. The sole purpose of this summary is to describe and illustrate certain concepts of the disclosure as a prelude to the more complete and extensive detailed description that follows.

In one aspect, a fastener assembly is disclosed that includes a first fastener and a second fastener configured to engage oppositely with the first fastener, each of the first fastener and the second fastener including a base, a plurality of hooks extending from the base defining a longitudinal row of hooks, where adjacent hooks in the longitudinal row of hooks are spaced apart by a distance measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks to define a hook receiving area therebetween, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base and defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, where adjacent ribs in each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs are spaced apart by a distance measured between centerlines of the respective adjacent ribs to define a rib receiving area therebetween, and the longitudinal row of hooks is disposed laterally between the two longitudinal rows of ribs. Each hook receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of fasteners of the first fastener is dimensioned to receive a corresponding hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener. Each rib receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener is dimensioned to receive a corresponding rib of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener. The plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener. The plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

More generally, a fastener assembly is disclosed that includes a first fastener and a second fastener configured to engage oppositely with the first fastener, each of the first fastener and the second fastener including a base, a plurality of hooks extending from the base, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base. The plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener, and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

In a further aspect, a fastener is disclosed that includes a base and a plurality of hooks extending from the base that define a longitudinal hook row, where adjacent hooks of the longitudinal hook row are spaced apart by a distance measured between the centerlines of the adjacent hooks, and adjacent hooks define a hook receiving area therebetween, the hook receiving area being dimensioned to receive a corresponding hook of the plurality of hooks of another fastener, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base that define two longitudinal rib rows, where adjacent ribs of each of the two longitudinal rib rows are spaced apart by a distance measured between the centerlines of the adjacent ribs, and adjacent ribs define a rib receiving area therebetween, the longitudinal hook row being disposed laterally between the two longitudinal rib rows, and the rib receiving area being dimensioned to receive a corresponding rib of the plurality of ribs of the other fastener.

More generally, a fastener is disclosed that includes a base, a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks being dimensioned to receive corresponding ones of the plurality of hooks of a second fastener, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs being dimensioned to receive corresponding ones of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener.

In yet another aspect, a method is disclosed for engaging a second fastener with a first fastener, the first and second fasteners each including a base, a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks being intermittently positioned in a longitudinal direction of the first fastener to form a row of hooks, a hook receiving area being formed between adjacent hooks of each pair of the plurality of hooks in the row of hooks, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs being intermittently positioned in a longitudinal direction to form a first row of ribs and a second row of ribs, the first row of ribs and the second row of ribs being located on first and second lateral sides of the row of hooks, respectively, in a lateral direction of the fastener assembly, and a rib receiving area being formed between adjacent ribs of each pair of the plurality of ribs. Engaging the second fastener with the first fastener includes receiving corresponding hooks of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener into corresponding hook receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener, and receiving corresponding ribs of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener into corresponding rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

More generally, a method is disclosed for engaging a second fastener with a first fastener to form a fastener assembly, the first fastener and the second fastener each including a base, a plurality of hooks extending from the base, and a plurality of ribs extending from the base. Engaging the second fastener with the first fastener includes receiving a hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener in a corresponding hook receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener, and receiving a rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener in a corresponding rib receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

The various implementations described in this disclosure may include additional systems, methods, features and advantages not necessarily expressly disclosed herein, but which will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. All such systems, methods, features and advantages are intended to be included within this disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. The features and advantages of such implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the systems, methods, features particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the exemplary implementations as set forth below.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain various principles of the present disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Corresponding features and components may be designated with the same reference characters throughout the drawings for consistency and clarity.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a fastening system including a bladder defining two mating surfaces at least partially joined with a fastener assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 3 is a top perspective view of a fastening system including the fastener assembly of FIG. 2 for securing a tonneau cover to a vehicle according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 2 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 4B is a second side top perspective view of the fastener of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4B is a top perspective view of a third side of the fastener of FIG. 4A. 4B. FIG. 4C is a detail top perspective side view of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken from detail 5 of FIG. 4B. FIG. 4B is a side elevational view of the fastener of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4B is an end or front elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 4A. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the hook row of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, the hook row including a plurality of double hook elements. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, the row of hooks including a plurality of double hook elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, the row of hooks including a plurality of double hook elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, the row of hooks including a plurality of single hook elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, the row of hooks including a plurality of single hook elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, the row of hooks including a plurality of double hook elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9 is a side elevational view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, the row of ribs including a plurality of generally trapezoidal shaped rib elements. 9 is a side elevational view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, the row of ribs including a plurality of generally rectangular rib elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9 is a side elevational view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, the row of ribs including a plurality of trapezoidal rib elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9 is a side elevational view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, the row of ribs including a plurality of generally trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9 is a side elevational view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, the row of ribs including a plurality of triangular rib elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9 is a side elevational view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, the row of ribs including a plurality of generally rounded or radial rib elements according to another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 9C is a side top perspective view of the fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A incorporates a row of generally trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements of FIG. 9D in both the lateral and longitudinal directions of the fastener, according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 8A is a side top perspective view of the fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , incorporating the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A with a row of rib elements that are generally trapezoidal and generally rectangular in both the lateral and longitudinal directions of the fastener, with ridges, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the fastener of FIG. 11 . FIG. 12 is an end or front elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a fastener assembly including two mating instances of the fastener of FIG. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of single hook elements of FIG. 8E is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9B is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally rectangular rib elements of FIG. 9B according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9B is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which a row of circular hook elements is interspersed with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. 9A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 , in which the row of double hook elements of FIG. 8A is interwoven with a row of generally trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A according to another aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of the fastener of FIG. 23. FIG. 24 is an end or front view of the fastener of FIG. 23. FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a fastener assembly including two coupled instances of the fastener of FIGS. 4A-4C. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of each of two mating instances of the fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26, with the fastener assembly in an unassembled state. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a row of hooks of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26, with the fastener assembly in an assembled state. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a row of ribs of each of two mating instances of the fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 26, with the fastener assembly in an unassembled state. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a row of ribs of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 26, with the fastener assembly in a substantially assembled state. FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 in an unassembled state. FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 in an assembled state. FIG. 27 is an end or front view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 in an assembled state.

The present disclosure may be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, as well as the preceding and following descriptions. However, before the present device, system, and/or method are disclosed and described, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular device, system, and/or method disclosed, as these may vary unless otherwise specified. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the device, system, and/or method of the present invention in its best currently known embodiment. Thus, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various embodiments described herein while still obtaining beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired advantages of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features. Thus, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and may even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as an illustration of the principles of the present disclosure and is not intended to be limiting thereof.

As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of a particular element may include two or more such elements unless the context dictates otherwise. Also, any element described herein may be referred to as a first such element, a second such element, and so on (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only a "widget" is referenced).

Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about" or "approximately," it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

For purposes of this disclosure, a material property or dimension that is approximately or nearly X on a particular measurement scale is measured within a range between X plus the industry standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus the industry standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances may vary between different materials and processes, and different models, the tolerance of a particular measurement of a particular component may fall within the tolerance range.

As used herein, the terms "any" or "optionally" mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances in which the event or circumstance occurs and instances in which the event or circumstance does not occur.

As used herein, the word "or" means any one member of a particular list and includes any combination of members of that list. As used herein, the phrase "at least one of a and B" means "only a, only B, or both a and B," and the phrase "one of a and B" means "a or B."

To simplify the description of the various elements disclosed herein, reference may be made to the conventional terms "left," "right," "front," "rear," "up," "down," "inside," "outside," "inner," "outer," "horizontal," and/or "vertical." Unless otherwise noted, "front" refers to the end of the fastening system closest to the end of the fastened joint or, in the case of a fastening system on a vehicle, the end closest to the front of the vehicle or a portion thereof, "rear" refers to the end of the fastener assembly or vehicle opposite or distal to the front, "left" refers to the left side or facing the left side as viewed by a person looking down the length of the fastener assembly with the fastening elements of the fastener assembly facing upwards or a person located inside the vehicle facing the front of the vehicle, and "right" refers to the right side or facing the right side as viewed by a person looking down the length of the fastener assembly with the fastening elements of the fastener assembly facing upwards or a person located inside the vehicle facing the front of the vehicle. "Horizontal" or "horizontal orientation" refers to something that lies in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with the horizon. "Vertical" or "vertical orientation" refers to something that lies in a plane that is at a 90 degree angle to the horizontal.

In one aspect, fasteners and associated methods, systems, devices, and various apparatus are disclosed herein. In one aspect, the fastener can include a plurality of fastening features, which can be hooks, and a plurality of sealing features, which can be ribs. Two identical or matching instances of the fastener can be joined to form a fastener assembly.

1 is a top perspective view of a fastening system 50 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. In some aspects, the fastening system 50 can include a storage device 60, which can be or can include an enclosure, such as, for example, but not limited to, a bag or other container. As shown, the storage device 60 can be a storage bag for use in food packaging. The storage device 60 can define mating surfaces 61, 62 that can be partially joined with the fastener assembly 100. The storage cavity 68 defined by the storage device 60 can itself be defined, protected, and sealed away from an environment outside the storage device 60 (i.e., an environment to which the exterior surface of the storage device is exposed during normal use) when the fastener assembly 100 is in an assembled state. The storage device 60 can define a first side 63, which can be an interior surface, and a second side 64, which can be the aforementioned exterior surface. The first side 63 can define or include mating surfaces 61, 62 that can face each other in an assembled state of the fastener assembly 100. The fastener assembly 100 can include fasteners 110a, 110b, each of which can be a fastener strip or a fastener rail.

The storage device 60 can include one or more panels 65 that can be flexible or rigid. The material or materials forming the panels 65 can define a thickness measured between a first side 63 and a second side 64. Such material or materials can be any material, such as thick or thin, opaque or translucent, rigid or flexible, etc. For example, and without limitation, the material forming the bag can itself be formed from a plastic resin or a cellulosic material.

2 is a top perspective view of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the fastener assembly 100 can include a material that is sufficiently flexible to allow the fasteners 110a, 110b to flex or bend relative to one another. Each fastener 110a, 110b of the fastener assembly 100 can include a fastening element or fastening feature 200a, 200b, and the fastening feature 200a of the fastener 110a can be configured to engage with the fastening feature 200b of the fastener 110b. In some aspects, the fastening feature 200b of the fastener 110b can be identical to the fastening feature 200a of the fastener 110a or can at least define a mirrored pattern, in which case the mirrored surface can extend halfway between the fasteners 110a, 110b when the fasteners 110a, 110b are straight, parallel, and unassembled.

3 is a top perspective view of a fastening system 50 including fastener assemblies 100a, 100b, each of which may correspond to the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 2, according to another aspect of the present disclosure. In some aspects, as shown, the fastener assembly 100, and more specifically, the fastener assemblies 100a, 100b, may secure a panel 300 over an opening 88, which may in some aspects be defined by an enclosure or container 80. The panel 300 may be a cover, such as, for example, but not limited to, a tonneau cover for a vehicle. The opening 88 may be any opening in the container 80, which may be, for example, but not limited to, a vehicle or other object or part thereof, such as, for example, but not limited to, an opening 88 defined by an open bed of a pickup truck. A fastening system that may incorporate the presently disclosed fastener assemblies 100a, 100b is shown and described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 9,924,765 to Coronel, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some aspects, the sealing function provided by the joining ribs 430 of the fastener assembly 100 can prevent water from entering the container 80, e.g., the bed of a truck.

In addition to using the panel 300 as a tonneau cover to cover a truck bed as shown, such a panel 300 may also be used, for example and without limitation, as a tonneau cover to cover a convertible top assembly of a vehicle having a retracted, i.e., retractable, optionally hidden, lowerable or removable top; as a cover for an open-top vehicle (such as a jeep-type vehicle); as a dodger, spray hood, or bimini top for a boat such as a yacht to cover a portion of the cockpit; as a gym mat for storage against a wall; as a headliner; as a cushion; as a curtain; or as a vertical pad in an elevator.

The fastening system 50 may further include fastener holders 350a, 350b including first ends 355a, 355b and second ends 356a, 356b, respectively. The container 80 may include one or more side walls, such as, for example, but not limited to, a left side wall 83a and a right side wall 83b. Each side wall 83a, 83b may include a respective cap 85a, 85b. In some aspects, the caps 85a, 85b may be received on the side walls 83a, 83b, respectively. In another aspect, no cap is required on either side wall 83a, 83b.

The panel 300 may include an outer surface 301, an inner surface 302, a first side end 303, a second side end 304, a first longitudinal end 305, a second longitudinal end (not shown) distal or opposite the first longitudinal end, and a central portion 310. The panel 300 may include a fastener 110b that may secure the panel 300 to the fastener 110a to form a separate fastener assembly 100a, 100b on any one or more sides of the container 80. The panel 300 may be made from, for example, but not limited to, a woven fabric, a polymer, a leather-type product, or a composite of some of these, or other materials, and may be insulated or non-insulated, reinforced or non-reinforced, woven or non-woven.

The fasteners 110a, 110b, and more generally the fastener assemblies 100, 100a, 100b, can be used in any one of a number of end uses, including but not limited to the examples disclosed herein. In some aspects, the fastener assembly 100 can be used in other forms of packaging, such as, for example, but not limited to, bag openings for preservation of perishable goods, and thus the interface between the container and the lid, waterproof storage bags made from textiles or other materials for use in marine environments, and even to attach one object to another, such as, for example, but not limited to, attaching the object to a vertical surface, without necessarily closing or sealing the opening of the storage cavity in the process.

4A and 4B show a fastener 110 corresponding to fasteners 110a, 110b of fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the disclosure. FIGS. 4A-4C are three separate side top perspective views of fastener 110, and FIG. 5 is a detailed side top perspective view of fastener 110 of FIG. 4A with detail 5 of FIG. 4B cut away. With respect to this particular feature or description, as well as other features described herein, fastener 110, and thus fasteners 110a, 110b, may include a base 410, a plurality of hook elements or hooks 420 (which may be more generally fastening features), and a plurality of rib elements or ribs 430 (which may be more generally sealing features). If hook-to-hook fastener assemblies are used in packaging or other products, such assemblies generally provide little sealing function. As noted in the prior art discussion above, in these and other end uses, improper closures can cause the contents of a sealed package or other container to leak from the package or container, or can allow contaminants and/or air to undesirably leak into the package or container. In contrast, the fastener assembly 100 disclosed herein can be used to improve the freshness of food products or to reduce the rate of deterioration of otherwise stored items.

The base 410 can define a first or upper surface 411 and a second or lower surface 412 (shown in FIG. 6). In the front-to-back or longitudinal direction 403, the base 410, or more generally, the fastener 110, can define a first end 405 and a second end 406. In the left-to-right, side-to-side, or lateral direction 404, the base 410, or more generally, the fastener 110, can define a first lateral end 413 and a second lateral end 414. In some aspects, the length L of the fastener 110 in the longitudinal direction 403 can be similar or the same as the width W of the fastener 110 in the lateral direction 404. In other aspects, the length L can be greater than the width W. In some aspects, for example, the length L can be twice the width W, in some aspects the length L can be five times the width W, in some aspects the length L can be ten times the width W, and in some aspects the length L can be twenty or more times the width W. As shown, the lateral direction 404 can correspond to the Y-axis direction, the longitudinal direction 403 can correspond to the X-axis direction, and the vertical or normal direction of the fastener 110 can correspond to the Z-axis direction.

The plurality of hooks 420 may extend in a direction away from the base 410. More specifically, each of the plurality of hooks 420 may extend from the base 410 and may be at an angle of, for example, 90 degrees relative to a surface of the base 410, such as, but not limited to, the top surface 411. The plurality of hooks 420 may be intermittently arranged or positioned in the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110 to form a hook row or row of hooks 425. More specifically, the plurality of hooks 420 may form a longitudinal hook row 425, i.e., a row of hooks 425 extending in the longitudinal direction 403. Note that in FIG. 4A and subsequent figures, only a portion of the row of hooks 425 is labeled for clarity.

Similarly, the plurality of ribs 430, which may be walls, may extend in a direction away from the base 410. More specifically, each of the plurality of ribs 430 may extend from the base 410 and may be at an angle of, for example, 90 degrees relative to a surface of the base 410, such as, for example, but not limited to, the top surface 411. The plurality of ribs 430 may be intermittently arranged or positioned in the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110 to form a rib row or row of ribs 435. More specifically, the plurality of ribs 430 may form a first row of ribs 435 and a second row of ribs 435. In some aspects, the first row of ribs 435 and the second row of ribs 435 may be disposed on a first side and a second side of a longitudinal row of hooks, such as, for example, but not limited to, the row of hooks 425, respectively, or may be offset in the lateral direction 404 from the row of hooks, such as, for example, but not limited to, the row of hooks 425. As shown, the center or line of symmetry of each of the ribs 430 in the row of ribs 435 and the center or line of symmetry of each of the hooks 420 in the row of hooks 425 may be aligned along the lateral direction 404. Note that in FIG. 4A and subsequent figures, for clarity, only a portion of the row of ribs 435 is labeled with reference numbers.

As described below, various patterns of hooks 420 and ribs 430 can be repeated throughout the fastener 110 in either the longitudinal direction 403 or the lateral direction 404, or in both the longitudinal direction 403 and the lateral direction 404. In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C and 11, a pattern 470 (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) (shown in FIG. 4C) of one longitudinal row of hooks 425 and a row of longitudinal ribs 435 on either side of it can be repeated in the lateral direction 404 across the fastener 110. For example, the fastener 110 can include multiple instances of a pattern such as, for example, but not limited to, pattern 470 across the fastener 110. In some aspects, additional longitudinal rows of hooks 425 can separate other adjacent patterns 470 of hooks 420 and ribs 430. In some aspects, the hooks 420 of the hook row 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the location of the nearest adjacent hooks 420 of the adjacent hook rows 425 and from the location of the nearest adjacent ribs 430 of the adjacent rib rows 435. In some aspects, the hook rows 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 103 relative to each other and relative to the hooks 420 and ribs 430 of the pattern 470. Thus, in some aspects, the horizontal row 450 formed by the hooks 420 of the separate longitudinal hook rows 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the horizontal row 460 formed by the ribs 430 of the separate longitudinal rib rows 435. In some aspects, the additional longitudinal rib rows 435 can be disposed on a lateral edge of the fastener 110 proximate the second lateral end 414.

As shown in FIG. 5, each of the plurality of hooks 420 can include sides 522a, 522b (522b shown in FIG. 7), and each of the plurality of ribs 430 can include sides 532a, 532b (532b shown in FIG. 7).

6 is a side elevational view of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A. In some aspects, the thickness 610 of the base 410 may be constant, as shown. In some aspects, the overall height H of the fastener 110 may be constant, as shown, when measured from the lower surface 412 to the tips of the hooks 420 or to the tips of the ribs 430. As shown, the height 620 of the hooks 420 and the height 630 of the ribs 430 may be constant. In some aspects, the height 620 of the hooks 420 may be equal to the height 630 of the ribs 430, as shown.

7 is an end or front elevation view of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A. Although the base is shown as a "sandwich" of multiple individual layers of material, the fastener 110, and more specifically the base 410, may be monolithic in some aspects. This means that the base 410 is formed as a single component that comprises a single piece of material with no joints or seams. The portion of the base 410 that extends between adjacent rows 425, 435 in the lateral direction 404 may include or define a spacer 710.

8A is a cross-sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7. In some aspects, each of the plurality of hooks 420 of the row of hooks 425 can include a double hook element 820 that can define a palm tree shape. More specifically, each of the hooks 420 can include a double hook element 820 that can define one or more fastening tips 820a, 820b and a vertical portion or hook base 840. As used herein, a "hook" can be any shape of tip or tips 820a, 820b that extend toward ends 405, 406, 413, 414 (all shown in FIG. 4A) of fastener 110 in one or both of longitudinal and lateral directions 403 and 404, and tend to hook or lock into a binding feature defined in a mating second fastener 110 or another fastener, such as, for example and without limitation, the "loop" side of a hook-and-loop fastener. In some aspects, when viewed from the side (as shown or from another side), each of tips 820a, 820b of a corresponding hook element 820 can extend horizontally from a hook base 840 of hook 420. In some aspects, hook 420 can define an undercut, i.e., a recess or other shape that is hidden when fastener 110 is viewed from above along vertical direction 805, which can be at a 90 degree angle relative to the orientation of base 410. When viewed from the side, as shown, one or more sides 842 of the hook base 840 can be at an angle 847 relative to a surface of the base 410, such as, for example, but not limited to, the top surface 411. In some aspects, as shown, the angle 847 can be between 0 degrees and 90 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 can be between 0 degrees and 45 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 can be 20 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 can be 0 degrees and the side 842 of the hook base 840 can extend in a vertical direction 805 when the fastener 110 is oriented horizontally.

For example, and without limitation, each pair of adjacent hooks 420 of a hook row, such as hook row 425, can define a hook receiving area 880 therebetween. As also illustratively shown in FIG. 28, each hook receiving area 880 can be dimensioned to receive a corresponding hook 420 of the second fastener 110. More specifically, a minimum width 882 of the hook receiving area 880 in the longitudinal direction 403 can correspond to a minimum distance between adjacent hooks 420 in the same direction, but can be less than a maximum width 884 of the hook receiving area 880 in the same direction, and less than a corresponding maximum distance between adjacent hooks 420 in the same direction. Similarly, a minimum height 886 of hook receiving area 880 in a direction perpendicular to longitudinal direction 403, which may correspond to a minimum distance between each hook 420 and top surface 411 of base 410, may be less than a maximum height 888 of hook receiving area 880 and less than a corresponding maximum distance between the same hook 420 and top surface 411 in the same direction. Each hook 420 itself, or more specifically, each hook element 820, may define a width 824. At least in part, fastener 110 may thereby define a ratio between width 824 of hook 420 and minimum width 882 of hook receiving area 880, and between width 824 of hook 420 and maximum width 884 of hook receiving area 880. Each hook 420, and more specifically, each hook element 820, can define a hook element height 826 and an overall hook height 620, which can at least partially define a ratio between the height 826, 620 and a minimum height 886 of the hook receiving area 880, and a ratio between the height 826, 620 and a maximum height 888 of the hook receiving area 880. In some aspects, as shown, at least a portion of each of the hooks 420, such as the hook base 840, can be tapered from the hook base 840 toward the hook element 820 such that the minimum width of that portion of the hook 420 is less than the maximum width of that portion of the hook 420.

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

8B is a cross-sectional view of the hook row 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, each of the hooks 420 of the hook row, such as, for example and without limitation, the hook row 425, may include a double hook element 820 that may define a palm tree shape, although different from the shape shown in FIG. 8A. As shown, the ratio between the height 826 of the hook element 820 and the respective heights 886, 888 of the hook receiving areas 880 may be smaller, as compared to the hook row 425 shown in FIG. 8A. Also as shown, the angle 847 may be smaller. More specifically, the angle 847 may be less than 20 degrees. Also as shown, the radius R2 may be smaller, i.e., the tips 820a, 820b may be less rounded.

8C is a cross-sectional view of the hook row 425 of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, each of the hooks 420 of a hook row, such as, for example and without limitation, hook row 425, can include a double hook element 820 that defines a different shape than that shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, and can define, at least in part, an opposed "J" shape. As shown, the height 898 of the recess 828 defined in the hook 420 can be approximately the same as or equal to the height 620 of the hook 420. As shown, compared to the hook row 425 shown in FIG. 8A, the ratio between the width 824 of the hook element 820 and the respective widths 882, 884 of the hook receiving areas 880 can be greater. In some aspects, the width 824 of the hook 420 can be greater than one or both of the widths 882, 884 of the hook receiving areas 880. In some aspects, the hook elements 820, and more specifically the tips 820a, 820b, can be sized and/or configured to bend about their respective hook bases 840 during, and in some aspects even after, assembly of the fastener 110 to a second fastener 110 of the same or otherwise matching shape. Also, as shown, the radius R2 can be larger, i.e., the tips 820a, 820b can be more rounded.

8D is a cross-sectional view of the hook row 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, each of the hooks 420 of a hook row, such as, for example and without limitation, hook row 425, can include a single hook element 820 that can define one or more of the aforementioned characteristics of the hook 420 and can define a "J" shape. However, in some aspects, the width 824a of the hook element 820 can include the width of the hook base 840 of the hook 420. In other aspects, the width 824b of the hook element 820 can be measured at a tip extension 860 of the hook element 820 of the hook 420. As shown, the tip extension 860 can extend in the longitudinal direction 403 and can extend through a portion of the tip 820a that extends furthest in the longitudinal direction 403.

8E is a cross-sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks, such as, for example and without limitation, row of hooks 425, may include a single hook element 820 that may be different than that shown in FIG. 8D, but still define one or more of the aforementioned characteristics of the hooks 420, and may also define a "J" shape. As shown, the extension of the tip 820a of each of the plurality of hooks 420 may be more pronounced than that shown in FIG. 8D.

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

9A is a side elevational view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7. As shown, the row of ribs 430 can include a plurality of generally trapezoidal rib elements 930. Each of the plurality of rib elements 930, or more generally, each of the ribs 430, can include a rib base 940 and a tip 930a. As used herein, a "rib" can be any shape of rib element 930 that extends away from the base 410 of the fastener 110. Each of the ribs 430 tends to seal against a mating shape defined in a mating second fastener 110. More specifically, each of the ribs 430 can be configured to mate with or seal against its own inverse shape. In some aspects, when viewed from the side (as shown or from another side), each of the tips 930a can extend perpendicularly from the rib base 940 of the rib 430. When viewed from the side, as shown, one or more sides 942 of the rib base 940 can be at an angle 947 relative to a surface of the base 410, such as, for example and without limitation, the top surface 411. In some aspects, as shown, the angle 947 can be between 0 degrees and 90 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can measure between 0 degrees and 45 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can be 20 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can be 16 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can be 0 degrees, in which case the side 942 of the rib base 940 can extend in the vertical direction 805 when the fastener 110 is oriented horizontally. In some aspects, the hooks 420 and corresponding hook receiving areas 880 can be sized to define a gap therebetween to facilitate smooth intercoupling of the mating fasteners 110a, 110b (shown in FIG. 2). Similarly, the ribs 430 and the corresponding rib receiving areas 980 can be sized to define a gap therebetween to facilitate smooth coupling of the coupling fasteners 110a, 110b.

For example, but not by way of limitation, each pair of adjacent ribs 430 of a row of ribs, such as row of ribs 435, can define a rib receiving area 980 therebetween. As also illustratively shown in FIG. 32, each rib receiving area 980 can be dimensioned to receive a corresponding rib 430 of the second fastener 110. More specifically, a minimum width 982 of the rib receiving area 980 in the longitudinal direction 403 can correspond to a minimum distance between adjacent ribs 430 in the same direction, but can be less than a maximum width 984 of the rib receiving area 980 in the same direction, and less than a corresponding maximum distance between adjacent ribs 430 in the same direction. Each rib 430 itself, or more specifically, each rib element 930, can define a minimum width 924 and a maximum width 928. At least in part, the fastener 110 can thereby define a ratio between the width 924, 928 of each rib 430 and the respective width 982, 984 of the rib receiving area 980. Each rib 430 can define a height 630 that is equal to the depth or height of the rib receiving area 980.

This allows each of the ribs 430 to define a 1:1 ratio between the height 630 of the rib 430 and the height of the rib receiving area 980. In some aspects, the ratio between any one or more portions of the rib 430 of the first fastener 110 and the corresponding rib receiving area 980 of the second fastener 110 can be 1:1 to ensure a seal therebetween. In such aspects, the rib 430 can be securely coupled to the corresponding rib receiving area 980 during assembly. In some aspects, the rib 430 can be slightly undersized to allow for tolerances or to allow the gap 3180 (shown in FIG. 31 ) between the two fasteners 110 to be sealed. In some aspects, as shown, each of the ribs 430 can be tapered from the rib base 940 to the tip 930a such that the minimum width 924 of the rib 430 is less than the maximum width 928 of the rib 430.

In some aspects, the rib receiving area 980 can extend to a height that is equal to the height 630. In some aspects, as shown, each edge or side of each rib 430 can be straight. In some aspects, each rib 430, or a portion thereof, can define a notch, valley, or depression (not shown), or a non-straight or rounded portion. The inner and outer edges of each of the ribs 430 can define radii R1 and R2, respectively, which can improve the function (including assembly and disassembly) and/or durability of the fastener assembly 100 (shown in FIG. 1). If one or more portions of the hooks 420 or ribs 430 define a radius or other edge treatment, the dimensions, such as, for example and without limitation, the different widths 924, 928, 982, 984, etc. of each of the ribs 430 may be measured to the intersection of the edges of the ribs 430. In some aspects, as shown, the rib element 930 can be symmetrical about its vertical centerline, including when the fastener 110 is in a horizontal orientation.

FIG. 9B is a side elevational view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of generally rectangular rib elements 930. In some aspects, the row of ribs 435 can include rectangular rib elements 930. In some aspects, the rectangular shape of each rib 430 can be square shaped.

Figure 9C is a side elevational view of rib row 435 of fastener 110 of Figure 4A taken along line 9-9 of Figure 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, rib row 435 can include a plurality of trapezoidal rib elements 930.

9D is a side elevational view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of generally trapezoidal, chamfered rib elements 930, whereby each rib element 930 can define a chamfer 935 on one or more edges thereof. In some aspects, as shown, a portion of each rib 430 can be larger than the corresponding rib receiving area 980, and/or the edges of the ribs 430 can define a non-90 degree angle with respect to the sides 532a, 532b (532b shown in FIG. 7) to allow for interference and/or overlapping fit. More specifically, the edges of the ribs 430, such as, for example and without limitation, the surfaces of the chamfers 935, can cause the ribs 430 to taper in the longitudinal direction 403. Such a taper can inhibit movement of the fasteners 110a, 110b relative to one another in the lateral direction 404 (shown in FIG. 7), thereby aligning the fasteners 110a, 110b and preventing them from moving relative to one another in the lateral direction 404.

Figure 9E is a side elevational view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of Figure 4A taken along line 9-9 of Figure 7 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of triangular rib elements 930.

Figure 9F is a side elevational view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of Figure 4A taken along line 9-9 of Figure 7, where the row of ribs 435 includes a plurality of generally rounded or radial rib elements 930 according to another aspect of the present disclosure. As shown, each of the ribs 430 and the rib receiving areas 980 can define full radii R3, R4, respectively, that are equal in size to one another.

A shape that would otherwise be trapezoidal, rectangular, or other shape, due to the presence of a fillet, chamfer, or other edge treatment, the absence of a side where the shape merges with an adjacent portion of the structure, or other modification(s), may not be a trapezoid, rectangular, or other shape by technical definition. When a shape is described herein as being "approximately" trapezoidal, rectangular, or other shape, it is intended and contemplated that such modified shapes are included in the definition. If any changes to the shape are so minor that they are barely perceptible, it is intended and contemplated that such shapes are incorporated into the definition of the shape, with or without the use of the conditional term "approximately" as a modifier. Other contemplated shapes include truncated and untrimmed forms, as well as other modified versions of those disclosed herein, such as the fastener 110 shown in FIG. 9C can be formed by truncating the triangular rib element 930 of the fastener 110 shown in FIG. 9E.

10 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the row of double hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A incorporates a row of generally trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements 930 of FIG. 9D in both the lateral direction 404 and the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, a pattern 470 of one longitudinal hook row 425 and a longitudinal rib row 435 on either side of it (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) can be repeated in the lateral direction 404 across the fastener 110. In some aspects, as shown, adjacent patterns 470 can share a common rib row 435 (i.e., in a rib-hook-rib-hook-rib pattern). In some aspects, the hooks 420 of the hook row 425 can be offset relative to the ribs 430 of the rib row 435, also as shown. Thus, in some aspects, the horizontal rows 450 formed by the hooks 420 of the separate longitudinal hook rows 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the horizontal rows 460 formed by the ribs 430 of the separate longitudinal rib rows 435.

11-14 show the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the disclosure. FIG. 11 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110, FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of the fastener 110, FIG. 13 is an end or front elevation view of the fastener 110, and FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of the fastener assembly 100 including two combined instances of the fasteners 110a, 100b of FIG. 11. As also shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, a pattern 470 of one longitudinal row of hooks 425 and a longitudinal row of ribs 435 on either side thereof (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) can be repeated laterally 404 across the fastener 110. Again, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the longitudinal row of hooks 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 relative to the hooks 420 and ribs 430 of the pattern 470. As shown herein and in FIG. 9B, each rib 430 can be generally rectangular.

Also, as shown, each rib 430 may be provided with a ridge. More specifically, each rib 430 may include a protrusion or ridge 1130. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 may extend from a tip 930a defined at an end of the rib 430, which tip 930a may be parallel to and opposite the location where the rib 430 extends from the base 410. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 may extend from one or more other ends of the rib 430, particularly if the two combined fastener assemblies 100 are not identical. More specifically, the ridge 1130 of each rib 430 of the first fastener 110 may extend into a slot 1180 defined in each rib 430 of the second fastener 110. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 may define a radius curve at the leading edge to facilitate insertion into the slot 1180 of the mating fastener 110. The thickness of the ridge 1130 in the lateral direction 404 may be less than the thickness of the rib 430 in the same direction. The ridge 1130 may be centrally located in the lateral direction 404. In some aspects, a groove or slot 1180 may be defined in each rib receiving area 980 and may be sized, positioned, and otherwise configured to receive the ridge 1130 during assembly of the two mating fasteners 110 to form the fastener assembly 100 (shown in FIG. 14). The thickness of the slot 1180 in the lateral direction 404 may be less than the thickness of the rib 430 in the same direction. The thickness of the slot 1180 in the lateral direction 404 may match the thickness of the ridge 1130 in the lateral direction 404.

Figure 14 illustrates the fastener assembly 100. The engagement of the plurality of ridges 1130 formed on the first fastener 110 with the plurality of slots 1180 (shown in Figure 11) defined in the second fastener 110b facilitates positive positioning of the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a, particularly in the lateral direction 404, because the engagement of the ridges 1130 with the slots 1180 locks the position of the two fasteners 110a, 110b relative to each other in the lateral direction 404.

15-21 show a fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to an aspect of the disclosure, in which a plurality of longitudinal rib rows 435 are disposed on either side of one or more of the longitudinal hook rows 425. FIG. 15 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the plurality of ribs 430 can extend from the base 410 to form multiple instances of a repeatable rib-hook-rib pattern 470 (shown in detail in FIG. 4C) across the fastener 110 in the lateral direction 404. The fastener 110 can include multiple adjacent rib rows 435, including additional rib rows 435 at the lateral ends of the fastener 110. In some aspects, the fastener 110 can include a rib-rib-hook-rib-rib pattern 1570 in which two or more longitudinal rib rows 435 are disposed on either side of each hook row 425. In some aspects, as shown, two or more rib rows 435 of the pattern located between adjacent hook rows 425 can be shared between adjacent patterns 1570. As shown, the hook row 425 can include the double hook element 820 of FIG. 8A, and the rib row 435 can include the generally trapezoidal rib element 930 of FIG. 9A. The hooks 420 and ribs 430 can form respective transverse rows 450, 460, which can be aligned with one another as shown.

16 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. The hooks 420 and ribs 430 can be as disclosed in FIG. 15. However, in some aspects, the hooks 420 of a hook row 425 can define a spacing 1650 between adjacent transverse hook rows 450 that is different from the spacing 1660 between adjacent transverse rib rows 460. Thus, spacing 1650 can be the spacing between hooks 420 in the same longitudinal hook row 425, and spacing 1660 can be the spacing between ribs 430 in the same longitudinal rib row 435. As shown, spacing 1650 can be less than spacing 1660. Spacing 1650, 1660 can vary so that hook row 450 and rib row 460 can include only hooks 420 at some locations along the length 403 of fastener 110, only ribs 430 at some locations, and both hooks 420 and ribs 430 at some locations. As shown, hook row 425 can include single hook element 820 of FIG. 8E, and rib row 435 can include generally trapezoidal rib element 930 of FIG. 9A.

17-21 show a fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to an aspect of the disclosure, in which the longitudinal rib rows 435, such as the longitudinal rib rows 435 also shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, are offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403, similar to how they are offset relative to one another in the lateral direction 404. FIG. 17 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the longitudinal rib rows, such as the longitudinal rib rows 435, can be offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403 by an offset or staggered interval 1760, similar to how the longitudinal rib rows 435 are offset relative to one another in the lateral direction 404. More specifically, the separate lateral rib rows 460 can be offset by the staggered interval 1760, which can be equal to a distance such as, for example, but not limited to, half the interval 1660. As shown, longitudinal hook rows, such as longitudinal hook row 425, may be similarly offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403 by an offset distance or offset interval 1750, similar to how longitudinal hook rows 425 are offset relative to one another in the lateral direction 404. More specifically, separate lateral hook rows 450 may be offset by an offset interval 1750, which may be equal to a distance such as, for example, but not limited to, half the interval 1650. Thus, offset interval 1750 may be the spacing between hooks 420 in adjacent longitudinal hook rows 425 that are offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403, and interval 1760 may be the spacing between ribs 430 in adjacent longitudinal rib rows 435 that are offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403. Together, the hook row 425 and rib row 435 can form multiple instances of the pattern 470 (as shown in FIG. 4C, where adjacent rib rows 435 are offset relative to one another) and can also form overlapping patterns 1570 where an inner rib row 435 can be shared by an adjacent pattern 1570. As shown, the hook row 425 can include the double hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A, and the rib row 435 can include the generally trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

18 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. Again, the hook row 425 and rib row 435 together can form multiple instances of the pattern 470 (shown as pattern 470 in FIG. 4C, with adjacent rib rows 435 offset relative to each other) and can also form overlapping patterns 1570 (shown in FIG. 17) where an inner rib row 435 can be shared by an adjacent pattern 1570. As shown, the hook row 425 can include the double hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A, and the rib row 435 can include the generally rectangular rib elements 930 of FIG. 9b.

19 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the rows of ribs 435 can be offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403 as well as offset relative to one another in the lateral direction 404 to form horizontal rows 460, and the rows of hooks 425 can be aligned to form horizontal rows 450. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the double hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the generally trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

20 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the fastener can define a pattern 2070, which can be a pattern 470 repeated in the transverse direction 404, having an extra longitudinal rib row 435 straddling the hook row 425, i.e., between two or more rib rows 435 located on either side of the hook row 425. The extra longitudinal rib row 435 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 relative to the hook row 425. Thus, the pattern 2070 can be a rib-rib-rib-hook-rib-rib arrangement, where the rib 430 of the intermediate rib row 435 on each side of the hook can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the adjacent rib row 435. As shown, the hook row 425 can include the double hook element 820 of FIG. 8A, and the rib row 435 can include the generally trapezoidal rib element 930 of FIG. 9A.

21 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can be positioned only outboard of the row of hooks 425 in the transverse direction 404 relative to the centerline of the fastener 110. As shown, adjacent longitudinal rows of ribs 435 can be offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403 by an offset distance 1760. In some aspects, as shown, multiple rows of hooks 425 can be positioned adjacent to one another inboard of either row of ribs 435 without a row of ribs 435 therebetween. As shown, the row of hooks 425 can include the double hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A, and the row of ribs 435 can include the generally trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

22 is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. As shown, the hook row 425 may include circular or rounded hook elements 820, and the rib row 435 may include the generally trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A. For example, but not by way of limitation, the tip 820b of each hook element 820 of the plurality of hooks 420 of a hook row, such as hook row 425, may extend laterally 404 beyond the hook base 840. In some aspects, the tip 820b may extend in both the longitudinal direction 403 and the lateral direction 404. In some aspects, as shown, the tip 820b may extend in any direction. More specifically, any one or more of the hook elements 820, the tip 820b, and the hook base 840 may be formed by a rotation of the shape about the axis 2201 of the hook 420. In some aspects, as shown, the hooks 420 may have radial or rotational symmetry about the axis 2201. In some aspects, as shown, the tip 820b may define a shape that is an ellipsoid or approximately ellipsoid. In some aspects, as shown, the hook base 840 may define a cone shape. Overall, as also described with respect to the shape shown in FIG. 8F, the hooks 420 may define a mushroom or bulbous shape. The hooks 420 may define a hook receiving area 880 therebetween, which may be defined by three or four of the hooks 420, depending on whether the rows 425 of hooks are offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403 as shown.

23 is a side top perspective view, FIG. 24 is a side elevation view, and FIG. 25 is an end or front view of fastener 110 according to another aspect of the disclosure. Again, the row of hooks 425 and row of ribs 435 can together form multiple instances of pattern 470 (i.e., rib-hook-rib). In some aspects, adjacent patterns 470 can be offset relative to one another in the longitudinal direction 403, as shown. Such an arrangement of rows 425, 435 can help prevent hooks 420 and ribs 430, and more generally fasteners 110a, 110b (shown in FIG. 26), from going off track (i.e., out of alignment) as fasteners 110a, 110b are engaged, and can facilitate proper alignment from the time of initial engagement. More specifically, the positioning of one or more hooks 420 of the first hook row 425 adjacent one or more hook receiving areas 880 in the second adjacent hook row 425 of each of the fasteners 110a, 110b can limit or prevent movement of the fastener 110b relative to the fastener 110a in the lateral direction 404, as the one or more hooks 420 of the separate fasteners 110a, 110b prevent movement of each other in the lateral direction 404. Similarly, the positioning of one or more ribs 430 of the first rib row 435 adjacent one or more rib receiving areas 980 of the second adjacent rib row 435 of each of the fasteners 110a, 110b can limit or prevent movement of the fastener 110b relative to the fastener 110a in the lateral direction 404, as the one or more ribs 430 of the separate fasteners 110a, 110b prevent movement of each other in the lateral direction 404. Such a staggered arrangement may also improve the seal between the fasteners 110a, 110b. As shown, the hook row 425 may include the double hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A, and the rib row 435 may include the generally trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

FIGS. 26-33 show the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 according to another aspect of the disclosure. FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of the fastener assembly 100, which may include two mating instances of the fastener 110 of FIGS. 4A-4C: a first fastener 110a and a second fastener 110b, which may be configured to engage oppositely with the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, the structure of the second fastener 110b may be identical to the structure of the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, the structure of the second fastener 110b may mirror the structure of the first fastener 110a.

27 and 28 are cross-sectional views of the rows of ribs of the two mating instances of fasteners 110a, 110b of fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26 and with fastener assembly 100 in an unassembled and assembled state, respectively. As shown, each hook receiving area 880 defined between each pair of adjacent hooks 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of first fastener 110a can be dimensioned to receive a corresponding hook 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of second fastener 110b.

29 and 30 are cross-sectional views of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly 100 in an unassembled and assembled state, respectively. As shown, each rib receiving area 980 defined between each pair of adjacent ribs 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the first fastener 110a can be dimensioned to receive a corresponding rib 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b.

31 and 32 are side elevational views of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 in an unassembled and assembled state, respectively, and FIG. 33 is an end or front view of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 in an assembled state. The tapered shape of each rib 430 can facilitate interlocking of the fasteners 110a, 110b, with the rib 430 of the fastener 110b being received within and sealed against the rib 430 of the fastener 110a. The hooks 420 of the corresponding fasteners 110a, 110b can be engaged with each other in a locked configuration to maintain the seal. The locking mechanism can be strong enough to withstand stresses from vibration and tampering (e.g., by a child), but weak enough to be easily released when needed. In some aspects, the retention force resulting from the engaged hooks 420 can prevent the passage of fluid through the fastener assembly 100 at the row of ribs 435. In some aspects, the fastener assembly 100 can be repeatedly assembled, engaged, disassembled or disengaged, thereby allowing reuse of the storage device 60 (shown in FIG. 1).

As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the fasteners 110a, 110b and portions thereof can define various dimensions and ratios. In some aspects, one or both of the spacings 1650, 1660 can be 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, one or both of the spacings 1650, 1660 can be greater than or less than 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the thickness 610 of the base 410 can be 0.20 millimeters. In some aspects, one or both of the heights 620, 630 of the hooks 420 and ribs 430 can be 0.50 millimeters, respectively.

In some aspects, the overall fastener height H of fasteners 110a, 110b can be about 0.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be about 0.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be about 0.60 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be about 0.70 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be about 0.80 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be about 0.90 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be about 1.00 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be less than any of the aforementioned values or any range therebetween.

In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 of the fastener assembly 100 can be about 0.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 0.60 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 0.70 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 0.80 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 0.90 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.00 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.10 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.20 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.60 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.70 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.80 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 1.90 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be about 2.00 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can be less than any of the aforementioned values, or any range therebetween. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be greater than or equal to two times the thickness 610 of the base 410. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be greater than or equal to 2.5 times the thickness 610 of the base 410. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be greater than or equal to three times the thickness 610 of the base 410.

In some aspects, the spacing or pitch, such as the spacing 1660 between ribs 430 (or equivalently, the spacing 1650 between hooks 420) in the longitudinal direction 403, can be about 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacing, such as the spacing 1660 between ribs 430 (or equivalently, the spacing 1650 between hooks 420) in the longitudinal direction 403, can be less than 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacing, such as the spacing 1660 between ribs 430 (or equivalently, the spacing 1650 between hooks 420) in the longitudinal direction 403, can be 1.30 millimeters or more.

In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 33, the width 3310 of each of the hooks 420 and ribs 430 can be about 0.10 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be about 0.15 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be about 0.20 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be about 0.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be about 0.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be about 0.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be measured less than or in any range between any of the aforementioned values.

In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can be about 0.05 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can be about 0.10 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can be about 0.15 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can be about 0.20 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can be about 0.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can be about 0.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can be measured less than any of the aforementioned values or any range therebetween.

In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b and the fastener assembly 100 can be about 8 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can be about 10 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can be about 20 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can be about 30 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can be less than any of the aforementioned values or any range therebetween. Increasing the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can improve the connection strength and sealing performance of the fastener assembly 100.

The fastening area (not shown) of the hooks 420 and/or ribs 430 may be less than the entire length of the fastener, or may include different patterns of longitudinal rows of hooks 420 and/or ribs at different portions of the fastener 110 along its length 403.

In some aspects, in a "bi-directional" orientation of the hooks 420, the tips 820a or other portions of a first set of hooks 420 may extend in a first direction (e.g., along the longitudinal direction 403 and toward the second end 406), and the tips 820a or other portions of a second set of hooks 420 may extend in a second direction different from the first direction, such as, for example, but not limited to, the opposite direction from the first direction. Extending in a particular direction, such as a first direction or a second direction, may mean that each tip 820a is aligned with the hook element 820 and extends therefrom in such direction, respectively. In some aspects, the height 620 of each hook 420 may be greater than the height 630 of each rib 430, or vice versa. In some aspects, the presence of the ribs 430 may protect the hooks 420 from impact by an object, such as a plate, that rests on or is positioned to impact the fastener 110. The presence of ribs 430 can also protect portions of fastener assembly 100 during manufacture and assembly of fastening system 50 by allowing the use of automated equipment that contacts ribs 430 but not the typically more load sensitive hooks 420. With height 630 greater than height 620, hooks 420 are less likely to be damaged by objects contacting fastener 110.

In some aspects, as shown in the Coronel patent, adjacent hooks, adjacent ribs, or adjacent hook and rib pairs may be joined by joining ribs (not shown) that define a rib height that is equal to or less than half the heights 620, 630. As shown, without joining each of the hooks 420 or ribs 430 in a longitudinal row with the corresponding hooks 420 or ribs 430 in an adjacent longitudinal row, the fasteners 110 and fastener assemblies 100 may be less stiff and more prone to bending in the lateral direction 404 such that the base 410 is not flat when viewed in lateral cross section (i.e., a cross section taken in the lateral direction 404). As shown, not joining each of the hooks 420 or ribs 430 in a longitudinal row with the corresponding hooks 420 or ribs 430 in an adjacent longitudinal row can increase the stiffness of the fasteners 110 and fastener assemblies 100, which are less likely to bend in the lateral direction 404 such that the base 410 is not flat when viewed in a lateral cross section (i.e., a cross section taken in the lateral direction 404). Thus, during disengagement of the second fastener 110b from the first fastener 110a, the base 410 of each fastener 110a, 110b can retain its flat shape and securely fasten to an adjacent structure, such as, for example and without limitation, the fastener holders 350a, 350b.

In some aspects, the fastening system 50, and more specifically the fastener assembly 100, can be mounted in a vertical orientation. The fastener assemblies 100a, 100b can include a fastener 110a mounted in a fastener holder 350a, 350b. The fastening system 50 can further include a panel 300, which can be a gym mat or wall covering that includes a fastener material. The fastener holders 350a, 350b can be mounted to a vertical wall surface or any other vertical surface and can fastenably receive the panel 300.

A method of using the fastener assembly 100 can include engaging a second fastener 110b with a first fastener 110a. Engaging the second fastener 110b with the first fastener 110a can include receiving a corresponding hook 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b in a corresponding hook receiving area 880 defined between each pair of adjacent hooks 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of the first fastener 110a. Engaging the second fastener 110b with the first fastener 110a can include receiving a corresponding rib 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b in a corresponding rib receiving area 980 defined between each pair of adjacent ribs 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, the second fastener 110b can be one of the same structure as the first fastener 110a and a mirror structure of the first fastener 110a.

The method can include sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b by bonding contact between the first row of ribs 435 of the first fastener 110a and the first row of ribs 435 of the second fastener 110b. The method can further include sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b by bonding contact between the second row of ribs 435 of the first fastener 110a and the second row of ribs 435 of the second fastener 110b. 31, sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b can include eliminating any path for fluids, including, for example, but not limited to, air, water, or contents of a container, such as container 80 (shown in FIG. 1), to pass through any portion of the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener assembly 100 by closing the gap 3180 between the ribs 430 of the mating fasteners 110a, 110b. More specifically, sealing the connection between the fasteners 110a, 110b can include forming a fluid-tight seal at the gap 3180. In some aspects, the fluid-tight seal at the gap 3180 can be a water-tight seal. In some aspects, the fluid-tight seal at the gap 3180 can be an air-tight seal. In some aspects, sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b can include blocking or preventing such passage of fluid along a plurality of sealing lines across the width W of the fastener 110. Such sealing lines can occur at each interface between the rows of mating ribs 435, one from each of the two mating fasteners 110a, 110b. The method can include limiting movement of the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a in the lateral direction 104 of the fastener assembly 100. In some aspects, such movement can be limited by interference between the plurality of hooks 420 of the first fastener 110a and the plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b. In some aspects, such movement can be limited by interference between the plurality of ribs 430 of the first fastener 110a and the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b. Moreover, the second fastener 110b does not need to be moved laterally 404 relative to the first fastener 110a during assembly of the fastener assembly 100. Rather, even before forming the fastener assembly 100, the second fastener 110b and the first fastener 110a can be moved toward each other without moving the fasteners 110a, 110b relative to each other in the laterally 404, as shown in FIG. 26 and in other figures showing the fastener assembly 100. This method can include limiting the movement of the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a in the longitudinal direction 103 of the fastener assembly 100, which can also be facilitated by the above-mentioned interference between the coupling hooks 420 or coupling ribs 430 of the fasteners 110a, 110b.

More specifically, forming a fluid-tight seal in the gap 3180 can include contacting one another with opposing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of the portion of the fastener 110 defining the rib 430, which can be the rib 430 itself or adjacent portions of the fastener 110 defining the rib receiving area 980, during assembly of the fasteners 110a, 110b. In some aspects, forming a fluid-tight seal in the gap 3180 can include remaining in contact with one another with opposing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of the portion of the fastener 110 defining the rib 430 after assembly of the fasteners 110a, 110b, more specifically after engagement of the coupling hooks 420 of the fasteners 110a, 110b. In some aspects, forming a fluid-tight seal in the gap 3180 can include the opposing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of the portions of the fastener 110 that define the rib 430 remaining in load contact (i.e., contact under load due to engagement of the fasteners 110a, 110b) with each other after assembly of the fasteners 110a, 110b, more specifically, after engagement of the mating hooks 420 of the fasteners 110a, 110b. In some aspects, as shown, the fasteners 110a, 110b of the fastener assembly 100 can be configured not to slide relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 or lateral direction 404.

Each of the base 410, hook 420, and rib 430 of fasteners 110, 110a, 110b may be formed from any one of a variety of polymeric resins, including, for example, but not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyamide (e.g., NYLON resin), or polypropylene (PP); or any other material. The material forming fasteners 110a, 110b may be transparent, i.e., substantially transparent.

The fastener 110 can be manufactured using any one of a variety of methods, including those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,678,924 to Murasaki et al. and/or U.S. Patent No. 6,896,759 to Fujisawa et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In the methods disclosed therein, the fastener 110 can be formed by a continuous injection molding process. In some aspects, the fastener 110 can be rapidly cooled after molding and before removal from the mold to avoid deformation of the fastener 110 while the material used to form the fastener 110 is still warm. The fastener 110 can be welded to the container 80 (shown in FIG. 1), which in particular is also formed from a plastic resin, more specifically, LDPE or any compatible resin.

Note that, in particular, conditional terms such as "can," "could," "may," and "may" are generally intended to convey that certain aspects include certain features, elements, and/or steps and that other aspects do not, unless otherwise specified or understood within the context in which they are used. Thus, such conditional terms are generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are somehow required for one or more particular aspects, or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for determining, with or without user input or instruction, whether those features, elements, and/or steps should be included or performed in any particular aspect.

It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are merely possible implementations described for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process description or block in the flow diagram should be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions for performing a particular logical function or step in the process, and includes alternative implementations in which no functions are included or may not be performed, and may be performed in a different order than shown or described, including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order, depending on the functions involved, as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art of the present disclosure. Many changes and modifications can be made to the above-described aspect(s) without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any combination and subcombination of all elements, functions, and aspects described above. Thus, any modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure, and any possible claims for individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be included in the present disclosure.

Claims (25)

A first fastener;
a second fastener configured to engage oppositely with the first fastener;
A fastener assembly comprising:
Each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprises:
A base and
a plurality of hooks extending from the base defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks in the longitudinal row of hooks being spaced apart by a distance measured between centerlines of adjacent hooks to define a hook receiving area therebetween;
a plurality of ribs extending from said base defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs in each of said two longitudinal rows of ribs spaced apart by a distance measured between centerlines of respective adjacent ribs defining a rib receiving area therebetween, said row of longitudinal hooks being disposed laterally between said two longitudinal rows of ribs;
Including,
each hook receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener is dimensioned to receive a corresponding hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener, and each rib receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener is dimensioned to receive a corresponding rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener;
the plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein an opposing surface of one of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener contacts an opposing surface of a rib receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein each hook of the plurality of hooks defines an undercut that faces in at least one direction when the fastener is viewed from above along a vertical direction of the fastener. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein each rib of the plurality of ribs defines a generally polygonal shape when viewed along the transverse direction of the fastener. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein the rib-hook-rib pattern defined by the fasteners of the longitudinal hook rows located laterally between the two longitudinal rib rows is repeated at least once in a repeating pattern. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein a common longitudinal row of ribs is shared by the rib-hook-rib pattern and each of the repeating patterns. A base and
a plurality of hooks extending from the base defining a longitudinal row of hooks;
A fastener comprising:
a plurality of hooks, adjacent hooks of the longitudinal row of hooks being spaced apart by a spacing measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks, the adjacent hooks defining hook receiving areas therebetween, the hook receiving areas being dimensioned to receive corresponding hooks of a plurality of hooks of another fastener;
a plurality of ribs extending from a base defining two longitudinal rib rows, adjacent ribs in each of the two longitudinal rib rows being spaced apart by a distance measured between centerlines of the adjacent ribs, said adjacent ribs defining a rib receiving area therebetween, a row of longitudinal hooks disposed laterally between the two longitudinal rib rows, said rib receiving areas being dimensioned to receive corresponding ribs of the plurality of ribs of another fastener. The fastener of claim 7, wherein the plurality of ribs are sized to be received within a plurality of rib receiving areas defined by the other fastener, and the shape of each of the plurality of rib receiving areas viewed along the lateral direction is the inverse shape of a corresponding rib of the plurality of ribs. The fastener of claim 7, wherein the rib-hook-rib pattern defined by the fastener in the longitudinal hook row located between the two longitudinal rib rows in the transverse direction is repeated in a repeating pattern at least once in the transverse direction of the fastener. 8. The fastener of claim 7, wherein the two longitudinal rows of ribs define a first row of ribs and a second row of ribs, and the fastener further includes a third row of ribs, the third row of ribs being offset in the transverse direction of the fastener from each of the first row of ribs and the second row of ribs. The fastener of claim 10, wherein the centerline of at least one rib in the third row of ribs is offset longitudinally of the fastener from the centerline of a rib in the first row of ribs by an offset interval, the offset interval being different from the interval or a multiple thereof. 8. The fastener of claim 7, wherein the row of hooks is a first row of hooks, and the fastener further includes a second row of hooks, the second row of hooks being offset in the transverse direction of the fastener from each of the first row of hooks, the first row of ribs, and the second row of ribs. The fastener of claim 7, wherein the fastener is monolithically formed from a plastic resin. The fastener of claim 7, wherein each rib defines a flat opposing surface, the opposing surface being aligned with the lateral direction of the fastener. The fastener of claim 7, wherein a tip of each rib of at least one of the two longitudinal rib rows defines a raised portion, the thickness of the raised portion in the lateral direction of the fastener is less than the thickness of the rib in the lateral direction, adjacent ribs of the at least one rib row define rib receiving areas therebetween, and the rib receiving areas defined between the adjacent ribs define slots therein for receiving the raised portion of a corresponding rib of the other fastener. 1. A method comprising engaging a second fastener with a first fastener with an assembly force to form a fastener assembly,
Each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprises:
A base and
a plurality of hooks extending from the base;
a plurality of ribs extending from the base;
Engaging the second fastener with the first fastener includes:
receiving hooks of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener within corresponding hook receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener;
receiving a rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener within a corresponding rib receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener;
A method comprising: 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising sealing the connection between the first fastener and the second fastener against the passage of fluid between the first fastener and the second fastener. engaging the hooks of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener within the corresponding hook receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener;
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising contacting opposing surfaces of the corresponding rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener with opposing surfaces of the ribs of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener. engaging the hooks of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener into the corresponding hook receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener; and after removal of the assembly force,
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising maintaining contact between the opposing surfaces of the ribs of the second plurality of ribs and the opposing surfaces of the corresponding rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener. interference between a plurality of hooks of the first fastener and a plurality of hooks of the second fastener; and interference between a plurality of ribs of the first fastener and a plurality of ribs of the second fastener.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising limiting movement of the second fastener relative to the first fastener in a lateral direction of the fastener assembly by at least one of: A first fastener;
a second fastener configured to engage oppositely with the first fastener;
A fastener assembly comprising:
Each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprises:
A base and
a plurality of hooks extending from the base;
a plurality of ribs extending from the base;
the plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener. The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein one of the width of each of the plurality of hooks and the width of each of the plurality of ribs is 0.50 millimeters or less. The fastener assembly of claim 1, further defining an overall assembly height equal to or less than about 2.0 millimeters. The fastener of claim 7, further defining an overall fastener height equal to or less than about 1.0 millimeter. The fastener of claim 7, further defining an overall fastener width of about 30 millimeters or less.

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