WO2020198092A1

WO2020198092A1 - Apparatus comprising a hook substrate and a loop substrate

Info

Publication number: WO2020198092A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/024105
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mathieu DE BACKER
Original assignee: De Backer Mathieu
Priority date: 2019-03-22
Filing date: 2020-03-22
Publication date: 2020-10-01

Abstract

An apparatus can comprise a loop substrate comprising a first plurality of loops in a first configuration and a second plurality of loops in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. The apparatus can further comprise a hook substrate comprising a plurality of hooks configured to be fastened to a selected one of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops. In further embodiments, an apparatus can comprise a hook substrate comprising a first plurality of hooks in a first configuration and a second plurality of hooks in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. A selected one of the first plurality of hooks and the second plurality of hooks can be configured to be fastened to a plurality of loops.

Description

APPARATUS COMPRISING A HOOK SUBSTRATE AND A LOOP SUBSTRATE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit of United States provisional patent application number 62/822,367 filed March 22, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to apparatus comprising a hook substrate and a loop substrate and, in particular, to apparatus where at least one of the hook substrate or the loop substrate comprises a plurality of zones.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Hook and loop fasteners are well known in the art. Known techniques for hook and loop fasteners have been utilized and marketed under the name Velcro^® for many years. Hook and loop fasteners typically utilize a number of hook portions mounted on a substrate that receive and catch a number of loop portions formed on a separate substrate. When the two substrates are mated, the hook and loop structure provides for a secure coupling of the loop substrate to the hook substrate. The mating of the hooks and loops can also be undone easily to release the loops from the hooks. Such hook and loop fasteners are commonly utilized on various types of apparel, including shoes, shirts, pants, jackets, hats, and the like, as well as other objects and devices where it is desired to secure or seal a portion thereof, such as bags, containers, coolers, and the like.

SUMMARY

[0004] The embodiments of the present invention described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present invention.

[0005] In accordance with some embodiments, an apparatus can comprise a loop substrate comprising a first loop zone and a second loop zone positioned outside of the first loop zone. The first loop zone can comprise a first plurality of loops in a first configuration. The second loop zone can comprise a second plurality of loops in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. The apparatus can further comprise a hook substrate comprising a plurality of hooks configured to be fastened to a selected one of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops.

[0006] In accordance with further embodiments, an apparatus can comprise a hook substrate comprising a first hook zone and a second hook zone positioned outside of the first hook zone. The first hook zone can comprise a first plurality of hooks in a first configuration. The second hook zone can comprise a second plurality of hooks in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. The apparatus can further comprise a loop substrate comprising a plurality of loops. A selected one of the first plurality of hooks and the second plurality of hooks can be configured to be fastened to the plurality of loops.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0007] Advantages of embodiments of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments thereof, which description should be considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals indicate like elements, in which:

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic perspective view of an apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic view of woven material of an upper of a shoe taken at view 2 of FIGS. 1 and 15;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the woven material taken along line 3-3 of

FIG. 2; [0011] FIG. 4 is an enlarged schematic view a first plurality of loops in a first loop zone in a first configuration taken at view 4 of FIGS. 1 and 15;

[0012] FIG. 5 is an enlarged schematic view a second plurality of loops in a second loop zone in a second configuration taken at view 5 of FIGS. 1 and 15;

[0013] FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic view a third plurality of loops in a third loop zone in a third configuration taken at view 6 of FIGS. 1 and 15;

[0014] FIG. 7 is schematic cross-sectional view of the first plurality of loops in the first loop zone taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4;

[0015] FIG.8 is schematic cross-sectional view of the second plurality of loops in the second loop zone taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 5;

[0016] FIG.9 is schematic cross-sectional view of the third plurality of loops in the third loop zone taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 6;

[0017] FIG. 10 is schematic cross-sectional view of the first plurality of loops in the first loop zone taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4 with an average height that is greater than an average height of the first plurality of loops in the first loop zone of FIG. 7;

[0018] FIG. 11 is schematic cross-sectional view of the first plurality of loops in the first loop zone taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4 with an average height that is greater than an average height of the first plurality of loops in the first loop zone of FIG. 10;

[0019] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic perspective view of an apparatus in accordance with further embodiments of the disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of the hook substrate taken along line 13-13 of FIGS. 12 and 15;

[0021] FIG. 14 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of the loop substrate taken along line

14-14 of FIG. 12; and [0022] FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic perspective view of an apparatus in accordance with still further embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Aspects of the invention are disclosed in the following description and related drawings directed to specific embodiments of the invention. Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention. Further, to facilitate an understanding of the description, discussion of several terms used herein follows.

[0024] As used herein, the word "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance or illustration." The embodiments described herein are not limiting, but rather are exemplary only. It should be understood that the described embodiments are not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Moreover, the terms "embodiments of the invention", "embodiments" or "invention" do not require that all embodiments of the invention include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation.

[0025] Apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure can comprise a loop substrate and a hook substrate configured to be removably attached to the loop substrate. In some embodiments, the apparatus can comprise a subassembly of a hook substrate and a loop substrate either alone or integrated as part of an article to provide closure or fastening between two elements of the article. For example, the apparatus can comprise a hook substrate and the loop substrate integrated as part of an article such apparel (e.g., shoes, shirts, pants, jackets, hats), as well as other items where it is desired to secure or seal a portion thereof, such as bags, containers, coolers, and the like. As shown in FIGS. 1, 12 and 15, an apparatus 101, 1201 and 1501 can comprise a shoe although other articles may be provided in further embodiments where the hook substrate and the loop substrate are integrated as part of the article. [0026] FIGS. 1 and 15 illustrate embodiments of the apparatus 101, 1501 comprising a loop substrate 103 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. The loop substrate 103 will be described with respect to the apparatus 101 of FIG. 1 with the understanding that, unless otherwise noted, such description of the loop substrate 103 can apply equally to the apparatus 1501 of FIG. 15. In some embodiments, the loop substrate 103 can comprise a first loop zone 105 and a second loop zone 107 positioned outside of the first loop zone 105. In further embodiments, as shown, the loop substrate 103 can optionally comprise a third loop zone 109 positioned outside of the first and second loop zones 105, 107. As shown, the loop substrate 103 can comprise a row of loop zones that abut one another although the row of loop zones may be spaced apart in further embodiments. Furthermore, although not shown, the plurality of zones, if provided can comprise more than three loop zones.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first loop zone 105 can comprise a first plurality of loops in a first configuration, and the second loop zone 107 can comprise a second plurality of loops in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. Still further, if provided, the third loop zone 109 can comprise a third plurality of loops in a third configuration that is different than the first configuration and the second configuration. The difference in configuration can result in a difference in the strength of the removable connection between a hook substrate 111 and the loop substrate 103. For example, the difference in strength may be provided by different pile characteristics (e.g., pile density, pile depth) between the loop zones. For example, the first loop zone 105 can comprise a first configuration (e.g., pile configuration, pile depth) that has a relatively weak connection with the hook substrate 111. The second loop zone 107 can comprise a second configuration (e.g., pile configuration, pile depth) that has a stronger connection with the hook substrate 111 than the first loop zone 105. Furthermore, if provided, the third loop zone 109 can be provided with a third configuration (e.g., pile configuration, pile depth) that has a stronger connection with the hook substrate 111 than the second loop zone 107. Furthermore, the densities or pile depths the plurality of loops in the first loop zone. Alternatively, the size and/or shape of the loops may different between the zones to differentiate the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate. [0028] In some embodiments, the loop zones can be integrated as part of a woven material of an article. A schematic view of an example woven material 113 outside of the loop zones is shown in FIGS. 2-3. The woven material 113 can comprise warp filaments 201 extending in warp direction 203 and not cross- hatched for clarity. The warp filaments 201 are woven with weft filaments 205 extending in weft direction 207 and cross-hatched for clarity. As shown, the warp direction 203 can be substantially perpendicular to the weft direction 207. Various filaments can be provided in various examples. In some embodiments, the filaments comprise a single elongated element although the filament can comprise yarn in further embodiments. The filaments can comprise cotton, nylon, or other materials. As shown in FIG. 1, the first loop zone 105 can comprise a first shape of the woven material 113 such as the illustrated rectangular shape of the outer periphery of the first loop zone 105. The illustrated second loop zone 107 can comprise a second shape of the woven material 113 such as the illustrated rectangular shape that may be identical to the first shape. Still further, as shown, the illustrated third loop zone 109 can comprise a third shape of the woven material 113 such as the illustrated rectangular shape that may be identical to the first shape and/or second shape. Although a rectangular shape is shown, different shapes may be provided in further embodiments. For instance, the shape of each loop zone (e.g., shape of the outer periphery of each loop zone) may be a different shape to indicate the strength of the connection that can be expected with the zone. In further embodiments, the shape of one or all of the loop zones may comprise an ornamental shape or shaped to identify a sports team or sport personality.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 4-6, the woven material 113 can comprise the loop substrate 103 with the loop zones 105, 107, 109 with different weave configurations to provide loops of different sizes and/or shapes. For purposes of this application, a loop is considered a segment of one of a warp filament or a weft filament extending over one or more of the other of the warp filament or weft filament. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, the loops 401 of the first loop zone 105 comprise segments of the warp filament 201 that float over a corresponding adjacent two of the weft filaments 205. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, the loops

501 of the second loop zone 107 comprise segments of the warp filament 201 that float over a corresponding adjacent three of the weft filaments 205. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, the loops 601 of the third loop zone 109 comprise segments of the warp filament 201 that float over a corresponding adjacent four of the weft filaments 205. As can be seen in FIGS. 4-6, the loops 401, 501, 601 can comprise different sizes as the widths of the loops 401, 501, 601 in the warp direction 203 are different from one another. Indeed, as shown in FIGS.

4-5, the average width "Wl" of the loops 401 in the first loop zone 105 is less than the average width "W2" of the loops 501 in the second loop zone 107. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 5-6, the average width "W2" of the loops 501 in the second loop zone 107 is smaller than the average width "W3" of the loops 601 in the third loop zone 109. The difference in size (e.g., widths) of the loops can differentiate the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate. As shown by the unshaded areas of the loops 401, 501 in FIGS. 4-5, the loops 501 of the second loop zone 107 provides a greater area available for interlocking with the hooks of the hook substrate than the loops 401 of the first loop zone 105. Consequently, the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate can be greater in the second loop zone 107 than the first loop zone 105. Furthermore, as shown by the unshaded areas of the loops 501, 601 in FIGS.

5-6, the loops 601 of the third loop zone 109 provides a greater area available for interlocking with the hooks of the hook substrate than the loops 501 of the second loop zone 107. Consequently, the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate can be greater in the third loop zone 109 than the second loop zone 107.

[0030] In addition or alternatively to the difference in size (e.g., width) of the loops, the shape of the loops can be different from one another to provide a difference in the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate. For example, the shape of the loops can be changed by adjusting the average height that the loop extends over the underlying filaments that the loop floats over. For instance, as shown in FIG. 7, the loops 401 float over the underlying weft filaments 205 by a first average height "HI". As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 10, the loops 401 float over the underlying weft filaments 205 by a second average height "H2" that is greater than the first average height "HI". Thus, due to the relatively greater average height, the shape of the loops of FIG. 10 is more pronounced and is provided by a relatively longer width segment than the loops of FIG. 7. The greater average height and greater length of the segment width can increase the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate since there can be an increased opportunity of for the hooks of the hook substrate to interlock with the loops 401 of FIG. 10 than the loops 401 of FIG.7. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 11, the loops 401 float over the underlying weft filaments 205 by a third average height "H3" that is greater than the second average height "H2". Thus, due to the relatively greater average height, the shape of the loops of FIG. 11 is more pronounced and is provided by a relatively longer width segment than the loops of FIG. 10. The greater average height and longer width segment can increase the strength of the connection between the hook substrate and the loop substrate since there can be an increased opportunity of for the hooks of the hook substrate to interlock with the loops 401 of FIG. 11 than the loops 401 of FIG. 10.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 1, 12 and 15, the woven material 113 can comprise an upper 115, 1215 of the illustrated shoe. An adjustment strap 117, 1217 can also be provided that can, in some embodiments, comprise the hook substrate 111, 1211. In some embodiments, the loops can be positioned at a first location of the upper 115 of the shoe so that a user can select one of a variety of options of fastening characteristics (e.g., fastening strength) when fastening the hook substrate of the adjustment strap with the loop substrate 103.

[0032] The hook substrate 111 comprising a plurality of hooks 701 can be configured to be fastened to a selected one of the first plurality of loops 401, the second plurality of loops 501 and the third plurality of loops 601. For example, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 7, when the loops 401 comprising the average height "HI" and/or the average width "Wl" of the first loop zone 105 in the upper 115 of the shoe is coupled with the hooks 701 of the hook substrate 111 of the adjustment strap 117, a relaxed or looser fit of the shoe on a wearer may be provided. Loops 401 may be formed so as to provide a relaxed or easy coupling and decoupling with the hooks 701 of the hook substrate 111 of the adjustment strap 117. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that by varying the size and/or shape of the loops 401 and corresponding hooks 701, the coupling and decoupling properties between loops 401 and hooks 701 can be varied. For example, loops having a greater average height and/or greater average width will have different coupling and decoupling properties with respect to a given hook size and/or shape than loops having a lesser average height and/or lesser average width may have with respect to the same given hooks. Additionally, the woven material 113 could be marked with desired first loop indicia "A" associated with the first loop zone 105. In some embodiments, indicia other than "A" may be used such as the words "relaxed", "easy", or "walking", or an image of a walking person, for example, to facilitate the selection by a user of a desired fit and function.

[0033] When loops 501 of FIGS. 5 and 8 having the average width "W2" and/or average height "H2" (see FIG. 10) of the second loop zone 107 in the upper 115 of the shoe is coupled with the hooks 701 of the hook substrate 111 of the adjustment strap 117, a more secure fit can be provided to the wearer of the shoe than is available with first loop zone 105. Indeed, when the plurality of loops 501 of the second loop zone 107 is secured with the hooks 701 of the hook substrate 111 of the adjustment strap 117, a more secure coupling and decoupling with hooks 701 and loops 501 can be provided when compared to the coupling and decoupling of the hooks 701 and loops 401 of the first loop zone 105. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to modify the size and/or shape of loops 501 to provide a more secure coupling and decoupling with hooks 701. Additionally, the woven material 113 could be marked with desired second loop indicia "B" associated with the second loop zone 107. In some embodiments, the first loop indicia "A" associated with the first loop zone 105 can be different than the second loop indicia "B" associated with the second loop zone 107. In some embodiments, indicia other than "B" may be associated with the second loop zone 107 such as the words "jogging" or "medium", or an image of a person jogging, for example, to facilitate the selection by a user of a desired fit and function.

[0034] When loops 601 of FIGS. 6 and 9 having the average width "W3" and/or average height "H3" (see FIG. 11) of the third loop zone 109 in the upper 115 of the shoe is coupled with the hooks 701 of the hook substrate 111 of the adjustment strap 117, an even tighter or most secure fitting of the shoe on the wearer than is available with first loop zone 105 or the second loop zone 107. Indeed, when the plurality of loops 601 of the third loop zone 109 is secured with the hooks 701 of the hook substrate 111 of the adjustment strap 117, a most secure coupling and decoupling with hooks 701 and loops 501 can be provided when compared to the coupling and decoupling of the hooks 701 and loops 401 of the first loop zone 105 or the hooks 701 and loops 501 of the second loop zone 107. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to modify the size and/or shape of loops 601 to provide a most secure coupling and decoupling with hooks 701. Additionally, the woven material 113 could be marked with desired third loop indicia "C" associated with the third loop zone 109. In some embodiments, the first loop indicia "A" associated with the first loop zone 105 and the second loop indicia "B" associated with the second loop zone 107 can be different than the third loop indicia "C" associated with the third loop zone 109. In some embodiments, indicia other than "C" may be associated with the second loop zone 107 such as the words "running" or "workout", or an image of a person sprinting, for example, to facilitate the selection by a user of a desired fit and function.

[0035] FIGS. 12 and 15 illustrate further embodiments of apparatus 1201, 1501 wherein different fastening characteristics can be provided by different characteristics of the hooks on the hook substrate. For example, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 15, the plurality of hooks of the hook substrate 1211 can comprise a first plurality of hooks 1221 in a first configuration and a second plurality of hooks 1223 in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. In some embodiments, the plurality of hooks can comprise a third plurality of hooks 1225 in a third configuration that may be different than the first configuration and the second configuration. The hook substrate 1211 can comprise a first hook zone 1220 and a second hook zone 1222 positioned outside of the first hook zone 1220. As further shown, the hook substrate 1211 can comprise a third hook zone 1224 positioned outside of the first hook zone 1220 and the second hook zone 1222. The first hook zone 1220 can comprise the first plurality of hooks 1221, the second hook zone 1222 can comprise the second plurality of hooks 1223, and the third hook zone 1224 can comprise the third plurality of hooks 1225. The height, shape, density or other characteristic of one plurality of hooks can be different than the configuration of another plurality of hooks. For instance, a difference in hook density may provide different configurations. In one embodiment, as schematically shown in FIG. 13, the second hook density of the second plurality of hooks 1223 in the second hook zone 1222 can be greater than a first hook density of the first plurality of hooks 1221 in the first hook zone 1220. Furthermore, the third hook density of the third plurality of hooks 1225 in the third hook zone 1224 can be greater than a second hook density of the second plurality of hooks 1223 in the second hook zone 1222.

[0036] The adjustment strap 1217 can be provided with the different zones of hooks to allow a user to select one of a variety of options of fastening characteristics when fastening the hook substrate 1211 of the adjustment strap 1217 with a loop substrate 1203. As shown in FIG. 14, in some embodiments, the loop substrate can comprise a patch that may be attached to the woven material 113 by adhesive, sewing, or other attachment method. The patch can comprise a loop-type pile 1401 that can be engaged by a selected one of the plurality of hooks 1221, 1223, 1225 depending on the strength of the fastening connection desired. Although not shown, rather than the patch, the loop substrate may be formed by the woven material 113 (e.g., like shown in one of FIGS. 4-6 discussed above). The density of hooks is the least with the first plurality of hooks 1221 of the first hook zone 1220 where a relatively weak fastening connection is provided since there are a reduced number of hooks interlocked with the loops of the pile 1401. The relatively weak fastening connection can provide a relaxed or looser fit of the shoe on a wearer. As such, the first plurality of hooks 1221 (e.g., with reduced density) may be fastened to the loop substrate 1203 to provide a relaxed or easy coupling and decoupling with the first plurality of hooks 1221 of the hook substrate 1211 of the adjustment strap 1217. Additionally, the adjustment strap 1217 could be marked with desired first hook indicia "A" associated with the first hook zone 1220. In some embodiments, indicia other than "A" may be used such as the words "relaxed", "easy", or "walking", or an image of a walking person, for example, to facilitate the selection by a user of a desired fit and function.

[0037] The density of hooks of the second plurality of hooks 1223 of the second hook zone 1222 is greater than the density of hooks of the first plurality of hooks 1221 of the first hook zone 1220 to provide a more secure fit to the wearer of the shoe than is available with the first hook zone 1220. As such, the second plurality of hooks 1223 (e.g., with increased density) may be fastened to the loop substrate 1203 to provide a more secure coupling and decoupling with the second plurality of hooks 1223 of the hook substrate 1211 of the adjustment strap 1217. Additionally, the adjustment strap 1217 could be marked with desired second hook indicia "B" associated with the second hook zone 1222. In some embodiments, indicia other than "B" may be used such as the words "jogging" or "medium", or an image of a person jogging, for example, to facilitate the selection by a user of a desired fit and function.

[0038] The density of hooks of the third plurality of hooks 1225 of the third hook zone 1224 is greater than the density of hooks of the second plurality of hooks 1223 of the second hook zone 1222 to provide an even tighter or most secure fitting of the shoe on the wearer than is available with first hook zone 1220 or the second hook zone 1222. As such, the third plurality of hooks 1225 (e.g., with greatest density) may be fastened to the loop substrate 1203 to provide the most secure coupling and decoupling with the third plurality of hooks 1225 of the hook substrate 1211 of the adjustment strap 1217. Additionally, the adjustment strap 1217 could be marked with desired third hook indicia "C" associated with the second hook zone 1222. In some embodiments, indicia other than "C" may be used such as the words "running" or "workout", or an image of a person sprinting, for example, to facilitate the selection by a user of a desired fit and function.

[0039] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of the apparatus 1501 including the adjustment strap 1217 and hook substrate 1211 discussed with respect to FIG. 12 in combination with the loop substrate 103 described with respect to FIG. 1. It will be appreciated that various combinations of hooks may be engaged with various combinations of loops to provide more adjustment options.

[0040] Throughout the disclosure, the loops 401, 501, 601 may be formed in such a manner as to repeat in any desired fashion. For example, loops 401, 501, 601 of a particular size and/or shape could repeat along one or more of the warp direction 203, weft direction 207 or other direction. In some embodiments, loops 401, 501, 601 could be formed randomly. Alternatively, loops 401, 501, 601 could be formed with uniform average widths along one or directions (e.g., warp direction 203, weft direction 207) but varied heights along another direction (e.g., the other of the warp direction 203, weft direction 207). The loops 401, 501, 601 can be formed with any other variation, along any one or more directions, as desired or as may be required by a particular design. [0041] Additionally, referring to exemplary FIG. 7, although in one embodiment hooks 701 are formed substantially uniformly, in other embodiments, hooks 701 may be formed differently on different sections of hook substrate 111 so as to mate with the varied loops 401, 501, 601 to provide different attributes. For example, hooks designed to be mated with loops 601 may provide a tighter or more secure coupling with loops 601 that does not dislodge or lose tension easily. Alternatively, hooks designed to mate with loops 401 may be such that they couple and decouple more easily, for example allowing for ease of wearing and removal by wearers who may have difficulty manipulating traditional hook and loop fasteners. Still further, hooks may be designed to mate with loops 501 to provide an intermediate fastening strength to provide the benefits of a more secure coupling while still providing sufficient ease of wearing and removal by wearers. Additionally, in some embodiments, hooks designed to mate with a specific loop style or location may not mate with other styles or location of loops. For example, a hook designed for mating with a loose or relaxed fit-style loop 401 may not mate with a tight or secure loop 601.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 1, 12 and 15, the different styles of loops (and/or hooks) may be formed in different patterns on substrates which may offer any combination of performance characteristics and attributes as well as aesthetic styling. Further, it is envisioned that multiple zones of loops may be used in combination with hooks to provide variable or customizable fitting and performance, as desired by a wearer.

[0043] The present disclosure further contemplates a method for producing a hook and loop fastener according to the embodiments discussed herein. In some embodiments, the loop substrate is a woven material. In such embodiments, loops are produced or formed directly in the woven material by floating the filament (e.g., yarn), such as the warp filament, higher off the fabric to create loops for coupling with one or more corresponding hook substrates. In other embodiments, loops could be formed by floating the weft filament higher off the fabric to create loop structures. In still further embodiments, both the weft filament and the warp filament can be floated higher off the fabric in different areas of the woven material, or even in the same area of the woven material, to create loops. [0044] In some embodiments, a loop substrate has two or more different styles of loops formed thereon. In such embodiments, different style loops (e.g., loops having a different size and/or shape) are produced directly in the woven material by floating the filament, such as one or both of the weft filament and the warp filament, higher off the fabric to create loops for coupling with corresponding hooks. Thus, by creating different areas or zones on the surface of the woven material, a hook portion of a hook and loop fastener can be attached to a desired zone for specific coupling and decoupling properties. For example, a loop that is higher off the surface of the woven material than other loops may provide a more secure coupling with a hook portion. Likewise, a loop that is wider may also provide a more secure coupling with a hook portion. For example, to create a wider loop in the weft direction, a weft filament may be floated over any number of warp filaments to achieve the desired loop width. In another example, to create a wider loop in the warp direction, a warp filament may be floated over any number of weft filaments to achieve the desired loop width. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other variations to the loop shape and/or size can vary the coupling and decoupling properties of a hook and loop fastener.

[0045] The present disclosure contemplates that loops can be produced or formed directly in a woven shoe upper. In some embodiments, two or more different areas or zones of loops are produced or formed in the shoe upper. By producing different areas or zones of loops in the shoe upper, a more custom fit can be provided to the wearer of the shoe. For example, if a wearer of the show needed a tighter shoe fit during certain activities (such as running or jogging, or participating in various team sports in which the shoe wearer may frequently run or jog, including soccer, basketball, football, rugby, baseball, cricket, and the like), the wearer can adjust the fit by coupling a hook portion with an appropriate loop portion formed on the shoe upper to provide a tighter fit, as will be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the locations of zones or areas of loops can be strategically determined in order to provide a shoe with a tight fit, a loose fit, and any number of intermediate fits. [0046] In some embodiments, zones or areas of different styles of loops may be formed in a woven material, including a woven shoe upper, to create patterns, shapes (including any geometric, alpha, numeric, or random shape), or different aesthetic appearances therein.

[0047] In some embodiments, some methods, systems, and apparatuses may utilize a woven material for the loops. For example, a tubular woven material may be formed in a variety of shapes and sizes directly in the woven material. Additionally, loops may be formed with varying shapes and sizes in different locations on the woven material. Further, loops may be formed in multiple areas or zones of the woven material, with each zone having a different size and/or shape of loops. Further, a corresponding hook portion may also be formed with hooks designed and/or shaped to mate to a specific area or type of loop on the woven material. Such hook and loop designs may thus provide for enhanced or varied securing capabilities as well as different aesthetic qualities. The hook and loop fasteners may be utilized on any desired apparel items, such as shoes, or any other product or item where a hook and loop fastener, or other fastening elements, are utilized.

[0048] The present disclosure further contemplates a method for producing an article comprising floating one or more filaments off a woven material to form a first zone of loops having a first configuration for coupling with one or more corresponding hook substrates. The method further comprises floating the one or more filaments off the woven material to form a second zone of loops having a second configuration for coupling with the one or more corresponding hook substrates, where the second configuration is different from the first configuration. In addition, the method comprises providing a substrate with a plurality of hooks for coupling with the first zone of loops and the second zone of loops. In some embodiments, the woven material is a woven upper for a shoe.

[0049] In some embodiments, one or more of a weft filament or a warp filament are floated off the woven material to form the first zone of loops and the second zone of loops. In some embodiments, the first zone of loops having the first configuration having a greater average height than the second zone of loops having the second configuration, and in some embodiments, the first zone of loops having the first configuration are wider than the second zone of loops having the second configuration.

[0050] In some embodiments, a method for producing a hook and loop fastener further comprises floating the one or more filaments off the woven material to form a third zone of loops having a third configuration for coupling with the one or more corresponding hook substrates, where the third configuration is different from one or more of the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0051] In some embodiments, the substrate further comprises a first zone of hooks with a first configuration and a second zone of hooks with a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. In some embodiments, the first zone of hooks is configured to couple with the first zone of loops, and the second zone of hooks is configured to couple with the second zone of loops. In further embodiments, the substrate further comprises a third zone of hooks with a third configuration for coupling with the third zone of loops.

[0052] The following are example embodiments of the disclosure with the understanding that further example embodiments may be provided in accordance with the disclosure. Furthermore, any of the embodiments discussed below may be used alone or in combination with any of the other embodiments discussed below.

[0053] Embodiment 1. An apparatus can comprise a loop substrate comprising a first loop zone and a second loop zone positioned outside of the first loop zone. The first loop zone can comprise a first plurality of loops in a first configuration. The second loop zone can comprise a second plurality of loops in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. The apparatus can further comprise a hook substrate comprising a plurality of hooks configured to be fastened to a selected one of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops.

[0054] Embodiment 2. The apparatus of embodiment 1, wherein the apparatus can further comprise a woven material comprising the loop substrate. [0055] Embodiment 3. The apparatus of embodiment 2, wherein the woven material can comprise an upper of a shoe.

[0056] Embodiment 4. The apparatus of embodiment 3, wherein the shoe can comprise an adjustment strap comprising the hook substrate.

[0057] Embodiment 5. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 3-4, where the first loop zone can comprise a first shape of the woven material and the second zone can comprise a second shape of the woven material.

[0058] Embodiment 6. The apparatus of embodiment 5, wherein the first shape can be identical to the second shape.

[0059] Embodiment 7. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 2-6, wherein the woven material can comprise a first loop indicia associated with the first loop zone and a second loop indicia associated with the second loop zone.

[0060] Embodiment 8. The apparatus of embodiment 7, wherein the first loop indicia can be different than the second loop indicia.

[0061] Embodiment 9. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein an average height of the second plurality of loops can be greater than an average height of the first plurality of loops.

[0062] Embodiment 10. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein an average width of the second plurality of loops can be greater than an average width of the first plurality of loops.

[0063] Embodiment 11. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein the plurality of hooks can comprise a first plurality of hooks in a first configuration and a second plurality of hooks in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. The hook substrate can comprise a first hook zone and a second hook zone positioned outside of the first hook zone. The first hook zone can comprise the first plurality of hooks and the second hook zone comprising the second plurality of hooks. [0064] Embodiment 12. The apparatus of embodiment 11, wherein the apparatus can further comprise a first hook indicia associated with the first hook zone and a second hook indicia associated with the second hook zone.

[0065] Embodiment 13. The apparatus of embodiment 12, wherein the first hook indicia can be different than the second hook indicia.

[0066] Embodiment 14. An apparatus can comprise a hook substrate comprising a first hook zone and a second hook zone positioned outside of the first hook zone. The first hook zone can comprise a first plurality of hooks in a first configuration. The second hook zone can comprise a second plurality of hooks in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration. The apparatus can further comprise a loop substrate comprising a plurality of loops, wherein a selected one of the first plurality of hooks and the second plurality of hooks can be configured to be fastened to the plurality of loops.

[0067] Embodiment 15. The apparatus of embodiment 14, wherein the apparatus can further comprise a woven material comprising the loop substrate.

[0068] Embodiment 16. The apparatus of embodiment 15, wherein the woven material can comprise an upper of a shoe.

[0069] Embodiment 17. The apparatus of embodiment 16, wherein the shoe can comprise an adjustment strap comprising the hook substrate.

[0070] Embodiment 18. The apparatus of embodiment 17, wherein the adjustment strap can comprise a first hook indicia associated with the first hook zone and a second hook indicia associated with the second hook zone.

[0071] Embodiment 19. The apparatus of embodiment 18, wherein the first hook indicia can be different than the second hook indicia.

[0072] Embodiment 20. The apparatus of any one of embodiments 14-19, wherein a second hook density of the second plurality of hooks in the second hook zone can be greater than a first hook density of the first plurality of hooks in the first hook zone. [0073] Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that variations to those embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

[0074] The foregoing description and accompanying figures illustrate the principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of the invention. However, the invention should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. Additional variations of the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated by those skilled in the art (for example, features associated with certain configurations of the invention may instead be associated with any other configurations of the invention, as desired).

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising:

a loop substrate comprising a first loop zone and a second loop zone positioned outside of the first loop zone, the first loop zone comprising a first plurality of loops in a first configuration, and the second loop zone comprising a second plurality of loops in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration; and

a hook substrate comprising a plurality of hooks configured to be fastened to a selected one of the first plurality of loops and the second plurality of loops.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a woven material comprising the loop substrate.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the woven material comprises an upper of a shoe.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the shoe comprises an adjustment strap comprising the hook substrate.

5. The apparatus of any one of claims 3-4, where the first loop zone comprises a first shape of the woven material and the second zone comprises a second shape of the woven material.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first shape is identical to the second shape.

7. The apparatus of any one of claims 2-6, wherein the woven material comprises a first loop indicia associated with the first loop zone and a second loop indicia associated with the second loop zone.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first loop indicia is different than the second loop indicia.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-8, wherein an average height of the second plurality of loops is greater than an average height of the first plurality of loops.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-9, wherein an average width of the second plurality of loops is greater than an average width of the first plurality of loops.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the plurality of hooks comprises a first plurality of hooks in a first configuration and a second plurality of hooks in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration, the hook substrate comprises a first hook zone and a second hook zone positioned outside of the first hook zone, the first hook zone comprising the first plurality of hooks and the second hook zone comprising the second plurality of hooks.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising a first hook indicia associated with the first hook zone and a second hook indicia associated with the second hook zone.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first hook indicia is different than the second hook indicia.

14. An apparatus comprising:

a hook substrate comprising a first hook zone and a second hook zone positioned outside of the first hook zone, the first hook zone comprising a first plurality of hooks in a first configuration, and the second hook zone comprising a second plurality of hooks in a second configuration that is different than the first configuration; and

a loop substrate comprising a plurality of loops, wherein a selected one of the first plurality of hooks and the second plurality of hooks is configured to be fastened to the plurality of loops.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising a woven material comprising the loop substrate.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the woven material comprises an upper of a shoe.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the shoe comprises an adjustment strap comprising the hook substrate.

18. The apparatus of 17, wherein the adjustment strap comprises a first hook indicia associated with the first hook zone and a second hook indicia associated with the second hook zone.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first hook indicia is different than the second hook indicia.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 14-19, wherein a second hook density of the second plurality of hooks in the second hook zone is greater than a first hook density of the first plurality of hooks in the first hook zone.