WO2023014713A1

WO2023014713A1 - Hook-to-hook fastener

Info

Publication number: WO2023014713A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/039168
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Fleming; Wolfgang Coronel; Phillip HAZELTON
Original assignee: Ykk Corporation
Priority date: 2021-08-04
Filing date: 2022-08-02
Publication date: 2023-02-09
Also published as: JP2024518102A; TW202307343A; CN117794417A; DE112022003749T5; TWI836540B

Abstract

A fastener includes: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks sized to receive a corresponding hook of a plurality of hooks of another fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs sized to receive a corresponding rib of a plurality of ribs of the other fastener.

Description

Title: HOOK-TO-HOOK FASTENER

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to fastening assemblies composing elongated flexible fasteners. More specifically, this disclosure relates to fasteners for joining mating surfaces of one or more objects (e.g., the entrance of a bag for storage of perishable items or the tonneau cover on a pickup truck).

Related Art

[0002] Fastener assemblies including hooks can be useful in joining two facing surfaces (of a clear plastic food storage bag, for example). Such fastener assemblies, however, including any “hook-to-hook” fastener assemblies, can lack an adequate sealing function. Inadequate sealing in these and other end uses can lead to leakage of the contents of the closed package or other container from the package or container or allow undesirable leakage of contaminants and/or air into the package or container. In the case of food storage, such leakage can contribute to issues of food freshness. In the case of storage of other items, such leakage can contribute to more rapid deterioration of the items stored.

Summary

[0003] It is to be understood that this summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. This summary is exemplary and not restrictive, and it is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor delineate the scope thereof. The sole purpose of this summary is to explain and exemplify certain concepts of the disclosure as an introduction to the following complete and extensive detailed description.

[0004] In one aspect, disclosed is a fastener assembly including: a first fastener; and a second fastener configured to face and engage with the first fastener, each of the first fastener and the second fastener including: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks of the longitudinal row of hooks spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks and defining a hook-receiving area therebetween; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs of each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the respective adjacent ribs and defining a rib-receiving area therebetween, the longitudinal row of hooks positioned in a lateral direction between the two longitudinal rows of ribs. Each hook-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener is sized to receive a corresponding hook of a 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 sized to receive a corresponding rib of a 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. The plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[0005] More generally, disclosed is a fastener assembly including: a first fastener; and a second fastener configured to face and engage 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.

[0006] In a further aspect, disclosed is a fastener including: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks of the longitudinal row of hooks spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks, the adjacent hooks defining a hook-receiving area therebetween, the hook-receiving area sized to receive a corresponding hook of a plurality of hooks of another fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs of each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the adjacent ribs, the adjacent ribs defining a rib-receiving area therebetween, the longitudinal row of hooks positioned in a lateral direction between the two longitudinal rows of ribs, the rib-receiving area sized to receive a corresponding rib of a plurality of ribs of the other fastener.

[0007] More generally, disclosed is a fastener including: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks sized to receive a corresponding hook of a plurality of hooks of a second fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs sized to receive a corresponding rib of a plurality of ribs of the second fastener. [0008] In yet another aspect, disclosed is a method including: engaging a second fastener to a first fastener, each of the first fastener and the second fastener including: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks positioned intermittently in a longitudinal direction of the first fastener to form a row of hooks, a hook-receiving area being formed between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the row of hooks; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs positioned intermittently in the 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 positioned, respectively, on first and second sides of the rows of hooks in a lateral direction of the fastener assembly, a rib-receiving area being formed between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs. Engaging the second fastener to the first fastener includes: receiving a corresponding hook of a plurality of hooks of the second fastener within a corresponding hook-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener; and receiving a corresponding rib of a 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.

[0009] More generally, disclosed is a method including: engaging a second fastener to a first fastener to form a fastener assembly, 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. Engaging the second fastener to the first fastener includes: receiving a hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener within 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 within a corresponding rib-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[0010] Various implementations described in the present disclosure may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which may not necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present 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 appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the disclosure and together with the description, serve to explain various principles of the disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Corresponding features and components throughout the figures may be designated by matching reference characters for the sake of consistency and clarity.

[0012] [FIG. 1] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a fastening system including a bag defining two mating surfaces at least partially joined with a fastener assembly in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 2] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 3] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a fastening system including the fastener assembly of FIG. 2 securing a tonneau cover of a vehicle in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 4A] FIG. 4A is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 4B] FIG. 4B is a second side top perspective view of the fastener of FIG. 4A.

[FIG. 4C] FIG. 4C is a third side top perspective view of the fastener of FIG. 4A.

[FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a detail side top perspective view of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken from detail 5 of FIG. 4B.

[FIG. 6] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 4A.

[FIG. 7] FIG. 7 is an end view or front elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 4A.

[FIG. 8A] FIG. 8A is a sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in which the row of hooks includes a plurality of double hook elements.

[FIG. 8B] FIG. 8B is a sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in which the row of hooks includes a plurality of double-hook elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 8C] FIG. 8C is a sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in which the row of hooks includes a plurality of double-hook elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 8D] FIG. 8D is a sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in which the row of hooks includes a plurality of single-hook elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 8E] FIG. 8E is a sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in which the row of hooks includes a plurality of single-hook elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 8F] FIG. 8F is a sectional view of a row of hooks of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7, in which the row of hooks includes a plurality of double-hook elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 9A] FIG. 9Ais a side elevation view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs includes a plurality of substantially trapezoidal rib elements.

[FIG. 9B] FIG. 9B is a side elevation view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs includes a plurality of substantially rectangular rib elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 9C] FIG. 9C is a side elevation view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs includes a plurality of trapezoidal rib elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 9D] FIG. 9D is a side elevation view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs includes a plurality of substantially trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 9E] FIG. 9E is a side elevation view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4 A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs includes a plurality of triangular rib elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 9F] FIG. 9F is a side elevation view of a row of ribs of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs includes a plurality of substantially rounded or radiused rib elements in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 10] FIG. 10 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements of FIG. 9D in both lateral and longitudinal directions of the fastener in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 11] FIG. 11 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal and substantially rectangular and ridged rib elements in both the lateral and the longitudinal directions of the fastener in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 12] FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 11.

[FIG. 13] FIG. 13 is an end view or front elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 11.

[FIG. 14] FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a fastener assembly including two mating instances of the fastener of FIG. 11.

[FIG. 15] FIG. 15 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 16] FIG. 16 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the single-hook elements of FIG. 8E are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 17] FIG. 17 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 18] FIG. 18 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially rectangular rib elements of FIG. 9B in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 19] FIG. 19 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 20] FIG. 20 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 21] FIG. 21 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. [FIG. 22] FIG. 22 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of circular hook elements are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 23] FIG. 23 is a side top perspective view of a fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 1, in which rows of the double-hook elements of FIG. 8 A are interspersed with rows of the substantially trapezoidal rib elements of FIG. 9A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[FIG. 24] FIG. 24 is a side elevation view of the fastener of FIG. 23.

[FIG. 25] FIG. 25 is an end view or front view of the fastener of FIG. 23.

[FIG. 26] FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of a fastener assembly including two mating instances of the fastener of FIGs. 4Ato 4C.

[FIG. 27] FIG. 27 is a sectional view of a row of hooks of each of the two mating instances of the fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly in an unassembled condition.

[FIG. 28] FIG. 28 is a sectional view of the rows of hooks of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly in an assembled condition.

[FIG. 29] FIG. 29 is a sectional view of a row of ribs of each of the two mating instances of the fastener of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly in an unassembled condition.

[FIG. 30] FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the rows of ribs of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly in a nearly assembled condition.

[FIG. 31] FIG. 31 is a side elevation view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 in an unassembled condition.

[FIG. 32] FIG. 32 is a side elevation view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 in an assembled condition.

[FIG. 33] FIG. 33 is an end view or front view of the fastener assembly of FIG. 26 in the assembled condition.

Description of Embodiments

[0013] The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0014] The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the present devices, systems, and/or methods in their best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in limitation thereof. [0015] As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one of a particular element can comprise two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise. In addition, any of the elements described herein can be a first such element, a second such element, and so forth (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only a “widget” is referenced).

[0016] Ranges can 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 “substantially,” 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.

[0017] For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes and between different models, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall within a range of tolerances.

[0018] As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0019] The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also includes any combination of members of that list. The phrase “at least one of A and B” as used herein means “only A, only B, or both A and B”; while the phrase “one of A and B” means “A or B.”

[0020] To simplify the description of various elements disclosed herein, the conventions of “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “inside,” “outside,” “inboard,” “outboard,” “horizontal,” and/or “vertical” may be referenced. Unless stated otherwise, “front” describes that end of a fastening system nearest to an end of the fastened joint or, in the case of a fastening system on a vehicle, that end closes to a front of the vehicle or a portion thereof; “rear” is that end of the fastener assembly or the vehicle that is opposite or distal the front; “left” is that which is to the left of or facing left from a person looking down a longitudinal direction of the fastener assembly with fastening elements of the fastener assembly facing upward or a person positioned inside the vehicle and facing towards the front of the vehicle; and “right” is that which is to the right of or facing right from a person looking down a longitudinal direction of the fastener assembly with fastening elements of the fastener assembly facing upward or a person positioned inside the vehicle and facing towards the front of the vehicle. “Horizontal” or “horizontal orientation” describes that which is in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with the horizon. “Vertical” or “vertical orientation” describes that which is in a plane that is angled at 90 degrees to the horizontal.

[0021] In one aspect, a fastener and associated methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses 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 otherwise matching instances of the fastener can be joined to form a fastener assembly.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a fastening system 50 in accordance with one aspect of the current 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 and without limitation, 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, which can be partially joined with a fastener assembly 100. A storage cavity 68 defined by the storage device 60 can itself be defined, protected, and sealed apart from and against an environment outside the storage device 60 (i.e., the environment to which an outer surface of the storage device is exposed during normal use) when the fastener assembly 100 is in an assembled condition. The storage device 60 can define a first side surface 63, which can be an inner surface; and a second side surface 64, which can be the aforementioned outer surface. The first side surface 63 can define or can include the mating surfaces 61, 62, which can face each other in the assembled condition of the fastener assembly 100. The fastener assembly 100 can include fasteners 110a, 110b, each of which can be a fastener strip or fastener rail.

[0023] The storage device 60 can include one or more panels 65, which can be flexible or rigid. A material or materials forming the panels 65 can define a thickness measured between the first side surface 63 and the second side surface 64. Such material or materials can be any material thick or thin, opaque or translucent, rigid or flexible. For example and without limitation, the material forming a bag can itself be formed from a plastic resin or a cellulose material.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the fastener assembly 100 can include materials sufficiently flexible to allow flexure or bending of the fasteners 110a, 110b with respect to each other. Each of the fasteners 110a, 110b of the fastener assembly 100 can include fastening elements or fastening features 200a, 200b, and the fastening features 200a of the fastener 110a can be configured to engage the fastening features 200b of the fastener 110b. In some aspects, the fastening features 200b of the fastener 110b can define an identical or at least mirrored pattern of the fastening features 200a of the fastener 110a, and in the latter case a mirror plane can extend halfway between the fasteners 110a, 110b with the fasteners 110a, 110b in a straight, parallel, and unassembled condition.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the fastening system 50 including fastener assemblies 100a, 100b, which each can correspond to the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 2 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. In some aspects, as shown, the fastener assembly 100 and, more specifically, the fastener assemblies 100a, 100b can secure a panel 300 over an opening 88, which in some aspects can be defined by an enclosure or container 80. The panel 300 can be a cover such as, for example and without limitation, a tonneau cover of a vehicle. The opening 88 can be any opening in the container 80, which can be the vehicle or other object or a portion thereof such as, for example and without limitation, the opening 88 defined by an open bed of a pickup truck. A fastening system in which the presently disclosed fastener assemblies 100a, 100b can be incorporated is shown and described in further detail in U.S. Patent No. 9,924,765 to Coronel, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In some aspects, the sealing function provided by the mating ribs 430 of the fastener assembly 100 can arrest water intrusion into the container 80, e.g., the bed of the truck.

[0026] In addition to using the panel 300 as a tonneau cover to cover a truck bed as shown, such a panel 300 can, for example and without limitation, also be used as a tonneau cover to cover a stored, i.e., retracted and optionally hidden, convertible top assembly on a vehicle with a lowerable or removable top, as a cover on a vehicle having an open top (such as a JEEP type vehicle), as a dodger, spray hood, or Bimini top on a boat such as a sailboat to cover a portion of the cockpit, as a gym mat for storage on a wall, as a headliner, as a cushions, as a curtain, or as a vertical pad within an elevator.

[0027] The fastening system 50 can further include a fastener holder 350a, 350b including a first end 355a, 355b and a second end 356a, 356b, respectively. The container 80 can include one or more side walls such as, for example and without limitation, a left side wall 83a and a right side wall 83b. Each of the side walls 83a, 83b can include a respective cap 85a, 85b. In some aspects, the caps 85a, 85b can be respectively received atop the side walls 83a, 83b. In another aspect, no cap is required on either of the side walls 83a, 83b.

[0028] The panel 300 can include an outer surface 301, an inner surface 302, a first side end 303, a second side end 304, a first lengthwise end 305, a second lengthwise end (not shown) distal from or opposite from the first lengthwise end, and a central portion 310. The panel 300 can include the fasteners 110b, which can be secure the panel 300 to the fasteners 110a to form the separate fastener assembly 100a, 100b on any one or more sides of the container 80. The panel 300 can be made out of, for example and without limitation, a fabric, a polymer, a leathertype product, or a composite of several of these or any other materials and can be insulated or non-insulated, reinforced or non-reinforced, woven or non-woven.

[0029] 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 not limited to the examples disclosed herein. In some aspects, for example and without limitation, the fastener assemblies 100 can be used in other forms of packaging, e.g., at the entrance or other opening of a bag for storage of perishable items, at an interface between a container and a lid therefore, in waterproof storage bags made from a fabric or other material for use in a marine environment, and even to attach one object to another — such as, for example and without limitation, attaching an object to a vertical surface — without necessarily closing or sealing an opening to a storage cavity in the process.

[0030] FIGs. 4 A to 4C show a fastener 110 corresponding to the fasteners 110a, 110b of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. FIGs. 4A to 4C are three separate side top perspective views of the fastener 110, and FIG. 5 is a detail side top perspective view of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken from detail 5 of FIG. 4B. The fastener 110 and, by extension, the fasteners 110a, 110b with respect to not only this particular feature or description but also other features described herein can include a base 410, a plurality of hook elements or hooks 420 (which can be, more generally, fastening features), and a plurality of rib elements or ribs 430 (which can be, more generally, sealing features). Even if a hook-to-hook fastener assembly is used in packaging or other products, such an assembly generally offers little to no sealing function. As mentioned in the discussion of Related Art above, inadequate sealing in these and other end uses can lead to leakage of the contents of a closed package or other container from the package or container or allow undesirable leakage of contaminants and/or air into the package or container. In contrast, use of the fastener assembly 100 disclosed herein can improve food freshness or otherwise reduce a speed of deterioration of the items stored.

[0031] The base 410 can define a first or top surface 411 and a second or bottom surface 412 (shown in FIG. 6). In a front-to-rear or longitudinal direction 403, the base 410 and, more generally, the fastener 110 can define a first end 405 and a second end 406. In a left-to-right, side-to-side, or lateral direction 404, the base 410 and, more generally, the fastener 110 can define a first side end 413 and a second side end 414. In some aspects, a length L of the fastener 110 in the longitudinal direction 403 can be similar or identical to a 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 two times greater than the width W; in some aspects, the length L can be five times greater than the width W; in some aspects, the length L can be 10 times greater than the width W; and ; in some aspects, the length L can be twenty or more times greater than the width W. In other aspects, the length L can be less than the width W. As shown, the lateral direction 404 can respond to a Y-axis direction, the longitudinal direction 403 can correspond to a X-axis direction, and a vertical or normal direction of the fastener 110 can correspond to a Z-axis direction.

[0032] The plurality of hooks 420 can extend from and away the base 410. More specifically, each of the plurality of hooks 420 can extend from the base 410 and can be angled at an angle, e.g., at 90 degrees, with respect to a surface of the base 410 such as, for example and without limitation, the top surface 411. The plurality of hooks 420 can be placed or positioned intermittently 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 can form a longitudinal row of hooks 425, i.e., a row of hooks 425 extending in the longitudinal direction 403. Note that, for clarity, only a portion of the rows of hooks 425 are labeled in FIG. 4A and in subsequent figures.

[0033] Similarly, the plurality of ribs 430, which can be walls, can extend from and away from the base 410. More specifically, each of the plurality of ribs 430 can extend from the base 410 and can be angled at an angle, e.g., at 90 degrees, with respect to a surface of the base 410 such as, for example and without limitation, the top surface 411. The plurality of ribs 430 can be placed or positioned intermittently in the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110 to form a rib row or a row of ribs 435. More specifically, the plurality of ribs 430 can 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 can be positioned, respectively, on first and second lateral sides of a longitudinal row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425 or can be offset in the lateral direction 404 from such a row of hooks as the row of hooks 425. As shown, a center or line of symmetry of each of the ribs 430 in the rows of ribs 435 and a center or line of symmetry of each of the hooks 420 in the row of hooks 425 can be aligned along the lateral direction 404. Note that, for clarity, only a portion of the rows of ribs 435 are labeled in FIG. 4A and in subsequent figures.

[0034] As will be described below, various patterns of the hooks 420 and the ribs 430 can be repeated across the fastener 110 in 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 to 4C and 11, a pattern 470 (shown in FIG. 4C) of one longitudinal row of hooks 425 with a longitudinal row of ribs 435 on either lateral side thereof (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) can be repeated across the fastener 110 in the lateral direction 404. For example, the fastener 110 can include a plurality of instances of a pattern such as, for example and without limitation, the pattern 470 across the fastener 110. In some aspects, an additional longitudinal row of hooks 425 can separate otherwise adjacent patterns 470 of the hooks 420 and the ribs 430. In some aspects, the hooks 420 of the row of hooks 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from a position of the closest adjacent hooks 420 of an adjacent row of hooks 425 and from a position of the closest adjacent ribs 430 of an adjacent row of ribs 435. In some aspects, the rows of hooks 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 103 with respect to each other and with respect to the hooks 420 and the ribs 430 of the patterns 470. Accordingly, in some aspects, a lateral row 450 formed by the hooks 420 of the separate longitudinal rows of hooks 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from a lateral row 460 formed by the ribs 430 of separate longitudinal rows of ribs 435. In some aspects, an additional longitudinal row of ribs 435 can be positioned on a lateral edge of the fastener 110 proximate to the second side end 414.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 5, each of the plurality of hooks 420 can include lateral sides 522a, 522b (522b shown in FIG. 7), and each of the plurality of ribs 430 can include lateral sides 532a, 532b (532b shown in FIG. 7).

[0036] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A. In some aspects, as shown, a thickness 610 of the base 410 can be constant. In some aspects, as shown, an overall height H of the fastener 110, as measured from the bottom surface 412 to tips of the plurality of hooks 420 or to tips of the plurality of ribs 430, can be constant. As shown, a height 620 of the plurality of hooks 420 and a height 630 of the plurality of ribs 430 can be constant. In some aspects, as shown, the height 620 of the plurality of hooks 420 can equal the height 630 of the plurality of ribs 430.

[0037] FIG. 7 is an end view or front elevation view of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A. While the base is shown as a “sandwich” of a plurality of individual layers of material, the fastener 110 and, more specifically, the base 410 can be monolithic in some aspects, which means the base 410 is formed as a singular component that constitutes a single material without joints or seams. A portion of the base 410 extending between adjacent rows 425, 435 in the lateral direction 404 can include or define spacers 710.

[0038] FIG. 8A is a 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, which can define a palm tree shape. More specifically, each of the hooks 420 can include the double-hook element 820, which can define one or more fastening tips 820a, 820b, and a vertical portion or hook base 840. As used herein, the “hook” can be any shape of the tip(s) 820a, 820b that extends towards an end 405, 406, 413, 414 (all shown in FIG. 4A) of the fastener 110 in one or both of the longitudinal direction 403 and the lateral direction 404 and tends to catch or lock onto a mating shape defined in a mating second fastener 110 or another fastener such as, for example and without limitation, a “loop” side of a hook-and-loop fastener. In some aspects, when viewed from the side (as shown or from another side perspective), each of the tips 820a, 820b of the corresponding hook element 820 can extend horizontally from the hook base 840 of the hook 420. In some aspects, the hooks 420 can define an undercut, i.e., a recess or other geometry hidden when the fastener 110 is viewed from above along a vertical direction 805, which can be angled at 90 degrees with respect to an orientation of the base 410. As viewed from the side, as shown, one or more sides 842 of the hook base 840 can be angled at an angle 847 with respect 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 847 can measure between 0 and 90 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 can measure between 0 and 45 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 can measure 20 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 can measure zero degrees, and the sides 842 of the hook base 840 can extend in the vertical direction 805 when the fastener 110 is oriented in a horizontal direction.

[0039] Each pair of adjacent hooks 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425, can define a hook-receiving area 880 therebetween. As exemplarily shown also in FIG. 28, each hook-receiving area 880 can be sized to receive a corresponding hook 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of a second fastener 110. More specifically, a minimum width 882 of the hook-receiving area 880 in the longitudinal direction 403, which can correspond to a minimum distance between adjacent hooks 420 in the same direction, 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 the hookreceiving area 880 in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction 403, which can correspond to a minimum distance between each hook 420 and the top surface 411 of the base 410, can be less than a maximum height 888 of the hook-receiving area 880 and less than a corresponding maximum distance between the same hook 420 and the top surface 411 in the same direction. Each hook 420 itself and, more specifically, each hook element 820 can define a width 824. Thereby, at least in part, the fastener 110 can define a ratio between the width 824 of the hook 420 and the minimum width 882 of the hook-receiving area 880 and a ratio between the width 824 of the hook 420 and the maximum width 884 of the 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 and thereby at least in part define ratios between the heights 826, 620 and the minimum height 886 of the hook-receiving area 880 and ratios between the heights 826, 620 and the 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 and toward the hook element 820 such that a minimum width of that portion of the hook 420 is less than a maximum width of that portion of the hook 420. [0040] In some aspects, the hook-receiving area 880 can extend to a height at which the minimum width 882 is measured. In some aspects, the hook-receiving area 880 can extend to an outermost portion of the hook 420 or a portion of the hook 420 from which the height 620 is measured. Each hook 420 can define a notch, valley, or depression 828 between adjacent tips 820a, 820b. Inside and outside edges of each of the hooks 420 can define radii R1 and R2, respectively, which can improve 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 symmetric about a vertical centerline thereof, including when the fastener 110 is in a horizontal orientation.

[0041] FIG. 8B is a sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425 can include a double-hook element 820 defining a shape that varies from that shown in FIG. 8A but can also define a palm tree shape. As shown, in comparison to the row of hooks 425 shown in FIG. 8A, the ratios between the height 826 of the hook element 820 and the respective heights 886,888 of the hook-receiving area 880 can be smaller. As also shown, the angle 847 can be smaller. More specifically, the angle 847 can be less than 20 degrees. As also shown, the radius R2 can be smaller, i.e., the tips 820a, 820b can be less rounded.

[0042] FIG. 8C is a sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425 can include a double-hook element 820 defining a shape that varies from that shown in FIGs. 8A and 8B and at least in part can define an opposing “J” shape. As shown, a height 898 of the depression 828 defined in the hook 420 can measure nearly the height 620 of the hook 420 or even the height 620 of the hook 420. As shown, in comparison to the row of hooks 425 shown in FIG. 8 A, the ratios between the width 824 of the hook element 820 and the respective widths 882, 884 of the hook-receiving area 880 can be larger. 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 area 880. In some aspects, the hook element 820 and, more specifically, the tips 820a, 820b can be sized and otherwise configured to bend about a respective hook base 840 during and, in some aspects, even after assembly of the fastener 110 to a second fastener 110 of the same or otherwise matching geometry. As also shown, the radius R2 can be larger, i.e., the tips 820a, 820b can be more rounded.

[0043] FIG. 8D is a sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425 can include a single-hook element 820, which can define one or more of the aforementioned characteristics of the hook 420 and can define a “J” shape. In some aspects, however, a width 824a of the hook element 820 can include a width of the hook base 840 of the hook 420. In other aspects, a width 824b of the hook element 820 can be measured at a tip extension line 860 of the hook element 820 of the hook 420. As shown, the tip extension line 860 can extend in the longitudinal direction 403 and through a portion of the tip 820a that extends furthest in the longitudinal direction 403.

[0044] FIG. 8E is a sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425 can include the single-hook element 820, which can vary from that shown in FIG. 8D but can still define one or more of the aforementioned characteristics of the hook 420 and can define a “J” shape. As shown, an extension of the tip 820a of each of the plurality of hooks 420 can be more pronounced than shown in FIG. 8D.

[0045] FIG. 8F is a sectional view of the row of hooks 425 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current 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 visible from only 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, as shown in FIG. 22, the bulbous shape can be visible from multiple directions or even all directions. In some aspects, a height H2 of the bulbous shape or bulbous portion of the hook element 820 in a direction extending away from the base 410 can be greater than or equal to a height Hl of a portion of the hook 420 extending between the bulbous portion and the base 410.

[0046] FIG. 9A is a side elevation 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 substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930. Each of the plurality of rib elements 930 and, more generally, each of the ribs 430 can include a rib base 940 and a tip 930a. As used herein, the “rib” can be any shape of the rib element 930 that extends away from the base 410 of the fastener 110. Each of the ribs 430 can tend to seal against a mating shape defined in a mating second fastener 110. More specifically, each of the ribs 430 can be configured to intermesh or seal with an inverse of itself. In some aspects, when viewed from the side (as shown or from another side perspective), each of the tips 930a can extend vertically from the rib base 940 of the rib 430. As viewed from the side, as shown, one or more sides 942 of the rib base 940 can be angled at an angle 947 with respect 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 measure between 0 and 90 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can measure between 0 and 45 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can measure 20 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can measure 16 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 947 can measure zero degrees, in which case the sides 942 of the rib base 940 can extend in the vertical direction 805 when the fastener 110 is oriented in a horizontal direction. In some aspects, the hook 420 and the corresponding hook-receiving area 880 can be sized to define a gap therebetween to facilitate smooth intermeshing of the mating fasteners 110a, 110b (shown in FIG. 2). Similarly, the rib 430 and a corresponding rib-receiving area 980 can be sized to define a gap therebetween to facilitate smooth intermeshing of the mating fasteners 110a, 110b.

[0047] Each pair of adjacent ribs 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of a row of ribs such as, for example and without limitation, the row of ribs 435, can define the rib-receiving area 980 therebetween. As exemplarily shown also in FIG. 32, each rib-receiving area 980 can be sized to receive a corresponding rib 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of a second fastener 110. More specifically, a minimum width 982 of the rib-receiving area 980 in the longitudinal direction 403, which can correspond to a minimum distance between adjacent ribs 430 in the same direction, 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 and, more specifically, each rib element 930 can define a minimum width 924 and a maximum width 928. Thereby, at least in part, the fastener 110 can define a ratio between the widths 924, 928 of each rib 430 and the respective widths 982, 984 of the rib-receiving area 980. Each rib 430 can define the height 630, which can equal a depth or height of the rib-receiving area 980. [0048] Each of the ribs 430 can thereby define a ratio of 1 : 1 between the height 630 of the rib 430 and the height of the rib-receiving area 980. In some aspects, a ratio between any one or more portions of the rib 430 of first fastener 110 and the corresponding rib-receiving area 980 of a second fastener 110 can be 1 : 1 to ensure a tight seal therebetween. In such aspects, the ribs 430 can tightly fit into the corresponding rib-receiving area 980 during assembly. In some aspects, the ribs 430 can be slightly smaller to allow for tolerances or to allow for the presence of a seal in a gap 3180 (shown in FIG. 31) between the two fasteners 110. In some aspects, as shown, each of the ribs 430 can be tapered from the rib base 940 and toward the tip 930a such that the minimum width 924 of the rib 430 is less than the maximum width 928 of the rib 430.

[0049] In some aspects, the rib-receiving area 980 can extend to a height at which the height 630 is measured. In some aspects, as shown, each of the edges or sides 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 an otherwise non-straight or rounded portion. Inside and outside edges of each of the ribs 430 can define radii R1 and R2, respectively, which can improve function (including assembly and disassembly) and/or durability of the fastener assembly 100 (shown in FIG. 1). Where one or more portions of the hook 420 or the rib 430 define a radius or other edge treatment, dimensions thereof such as, for example and without limitation, the various widths 924, 928, 982, 984 of the rib 430 can be measured to intersections of edges of the rib 430. In some aspects, as shown, the rib element 930 can be symmetric about a vertical centerline thereof, including when the fastener 110 is in a horizontal orientation.

[0050] FIG. 9B is a side elevation view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of substantially 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 of the ribs 430 can also be a square shape.

[0051] FIG. 9C is a side elevation view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of trapezoidal rib elements 930.

[0052] FIG. 9D is a side elevation view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of substantially trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements 930. Each of the rib elements 930 can accordingly define a chamfer 935 on one or more edges thereof. In some aspects, as shown, a portion of each the ribs 430 can be larger than the corresponding rib-receiving area 980 and/or 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 an interference and/or overlapping fit. More specifically, edges of the ribs 430 such as, for example and without limitation, surfaces of the chamfer 935 can result in the ribs 430 being tapered in the longitudinal direction 403. Such a tapering can discourage movement of the fasteners 110a, 110b with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404 (shown in FIG. 7) and thereby keep the fasteners 110a, 110b aligned and not moving with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404.

[0053] FIG. 9E is a side elevation view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the row of ribs 435 can include a plurality of triangular rib elements 930.

[0054] FIG. 9F is a side elevation view of the row of ribs 435 of the fastener 110 of FIG. 4A taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7, in which the row of ribs 435 includes a plurality of substantially rounded or radiused rib elements 930 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, each of the ribs 430 and the rib-receiving areas 980 can define full radii R3, R4, respectively, which can be equal in size to each other.

[0055] Shapes that are otherwise trapezoidal, rectangular, or some other shape might, by some technical definitions, not be trapezoidal, rectangular, or the other shape due to the presence of a fillet or chamfer or other edge treatment, due to the absence of one side where the shape merges into a neighboring portion of a structure, or due to other modification(s). When a shape is described herein as being “substantially” trapezoidal, rectangular, or some other shape, it is intended and contemplated that such modified shapes be included in the definition. To the degree that some modification to a shape is so minor as to be hardly perceptible, it is intended and contemplated that such a shape be incorporated into the definition of the shape, with or without use of the conditional term “substantially” as a qualifier. Just as the fastener 110 shown in FIG. 9C can be formed by truncating the triangular rib elements 930 of the fastener 110 shown in FIG. 9E, other contemplated shapes include truncated and non-truncated forms and other modified versions of that which is disclosed herein.

[0056] FIG. 10 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the rows of the double-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8A are interspersed with rows of the substantially 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 similarly shown in FIGs. 4A to 4C, the pattern 470 of one longitudinal row of hooks 425 with a longitudinal row of ribs 435 on either lateral side thereof (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) can be repeated across the fastener 110 in the lateral direction 404. In some aspects, as shown, adjacent patterns 470 can share a common row of ribs 435 (i.e., in a rib -hook-rib -hook-rib pattern). In some aspects, as also shown, the hooks 420 of the row of hooks 425 can be offset with respect to the ribs 430 of the rows of ribs 435. Accordingly, in some aspects, a lateral row 450 formed by the hooks 420 of separate longitudinal rows of hooks 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from a lateral row 460 formed by the ribs 430 of separate longitudinal rows of ribs 435.

[0057] FIGs. 11 to 14 show the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current 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 view or front elevation view of the fastener 110, and FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of the fastener assembly 100 including two mating instances of the fastener 110a, 100b of FIG. 11. As similarly shown in FIGs. 4A to 4C, the pattern 470 of one longitudinal row of hooks 425 with a longitudinal row of ribs 435 on either lateral side thereof (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) can be repeated across the fastener 110 in the lateral direction 404. Again, as shown in FIGs. 4A to 4C, the longitudinal row of hooks 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 with respect to the hooks 420 and ribs 430 in the pattern 470. As shown here and in FIG. 9B, each of the ribs 430 can be substantially rectangular.

[0058] As also shown, each of the ribs 430 can be ridged. More specifically, each of the ribs 430 can include a projection or ridge 1130. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 can extend from the tip 930a defined at an end of the rib 430, which can be parallel to and opposite from where the rib 430 extends from the base 410. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 can extend from one or more other ends of the rib 430, particularly if the two mating fastener assemblies 100 are not identical. More specifically, the ridges 1130 of the respective ribs 430 of the first fastener 110 can extend into slots 1180 defined in the respective ribs 430 of the second fastener 110. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 can define radii at a leading edge to facilitate insertion into the slots 1180 of the mating fastener 110. A thickness of the ridge 1130 in the lateral direction 404 can be less than a thickness of the rib 430 in the same direction. The ridge 1130 can be centered in the lateral direction 404. In some aspects, a groove or slot 1180 can be defined in each rib-receiving area 980 and can be sized, positioned, and otherwise configured to receive the ridge 1130 during assembly of two mating fasteners 110 to form the fastener assembly 100 (shown in FIG. 14). Athickness of the slot 1180 in the lateral direction 404 can be less than a thickness of the rib 430 in the same direction. The thickness of the slot 1180 in the lateral direction 404 can match the thickness of the ridge 1130 in the lateral direction 404. [0059] FIG. 14 shows the fastener assembly 100. Engagement of a plurality of ridges 1130 formed in a first fastener 110 with a plurality of the slots 1180 (shown in FIG. 11) defined in a second fastener 110b can facilitate the secure positioning of the second fastener 110b with respect to the first fastener 110a, especially in the lateral direction 404 because engagement of the ridges 1130 with the slots 1180 will lock a position of the two fasteners 110a, 110b with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404.

[0060] FIGs. 15 to 21 show the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the current disclosure in which multiple longitudinal rows of ribs 435 are positioned on either lateral side of one or more of the longitudinal rows of hooks 425. FIG. 15 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the plurality of ribs 430 can extend from the base 410 and form multiple instances of the rib-hook-rib pattern 470 (shown in detail in FIG. 4C), which can be repeated across the fastener 110 in the lateral direction 404. Including when an additional row of ribs 435 is added at lateral ends of the fastener 110, the fastener 110 can include multiple adjacent rows of ribs 435. In some aspects, the fastener 110 can include a rib -rib -hook-rib -rib pattern 1570, in which two or more longitudinal rows of ribs 435 are positioned on either side of each row of hooks 425. In some aspects, as shown, the two or more rows of ribs 435 of the pattern positioned between adjacent rows of hooks 425 can be shared between the adjacent patterns 1570. 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 substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A. The hooks 420 and the ribs 430 can form the respective lateral rows 450, 460, which as shown can be aligned with each other.

[0061] FIG. 16 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. The hooks 420 and the ribs 430 can be as disclosed in FIG. 15. In some aspects, however, the hooks 420 of rows of hooks 425 can define a spacing interval 1650 between adjacent lateral rows of hooks 450 that differs from a spacing interval 1660 between adjacent lateral rows of ribs 460. The spacing interval 1650 can thus be the spacing between hooks 420 in the same longitudinal row of hooks 425, and the spacing interval 1660 can be the spacing between ribs 430 in the same longitudinal row of ribs 435. As shown, the spacing interval 1650 can be less than the spacing interval 1660. Because the spacing intervals 1650, 1660 can differ, the rows of hooks 450 and the rows of ribs 460 can at some positions along the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110 include only hooks 420, can at some positions comprise only ribs 430, and can at some positions comprise both the hooks 420 and the ribs 430. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the single-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8E, and the rows of ribs 435 can comprise the substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9 A.

[0062] FIGs. 17 to 21 show the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the current disclosure in which longitudinal rows of ribs 435 such as the multiple longitudinal rows of ribs 435 also shown in FIGs. 15 and 16 are offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 even as they are offset with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404. FIG. 17 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, longitudinal rows of ribs such as the multiple longitudinal rows of ribs 435 can be offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 by an offset interval or stagger interval 1760 even as the longitudinal rows of ribs 435 are offset with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404. More specifically, separate lateral rows of ribs 460 can be offset by the stagger interval 1760, which can equal to a distance such as, for example and without limitation, half of the spacing interval 1660. As shown, longitudinal rows of hooks such as the longitudinal rows of hooks 425 can be similarly offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 by an offset distance or stagger interval 1750 even as the longitudinal rows of hooks 425 are offset with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404. More specifically, separate lateral rows of hooks 450 can be offset by the stagger interval 1750, which can equal to a distance such as, for example and without limitation, half of the spacing interval 1650. The stagger interval 1750 can thus be the spacing between hooks 420 in adjacent longitudinal rows of hooks 425 that are offset in the longitudinal direction 403 with respect to each other, and the spacing interval 1760 can be the spacing between ribs 430 in adjacent longitudinal rows of ribs 435 that are offset in the longitudinal direction 403 with respect to each other. Together, the rows of hooks 425 and the rows of ribs 435 can form multiple instances of a pattern 470 (as shown in FIG. 4C but with adjacent rows of ribs 435 offset with respect with each other) and also overlapping patterns 1570, in which the inside rows of ribs 435 can be shared by the adjacent patterns 1570. 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 substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9 A. [0063] FIG. 18 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Again, the rows of hooks 425 and the rows of ribs 435 can together form multiple instances of the pattern 470 (as shown as the pattern 470 in FIG. 4C but with adjacent rows of ribs 435 offset with respect with each other) and also the overlapping pattern 1570 (shown in FIG. 17), in which the inside rows of ribs 435 can be shared by the adjacent patterns 1570. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the double-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8 A, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the substantially rectangular rib elements 930 of FIG. 9B.

[0064] FIG. 19 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the rows of ribs 435 can be offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 even as they are offset with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404 to form the lateral rows 460, and the rows of hooks 425 can be aligned to form the lateral rows 450. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the double-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8 A, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9 A.

[0065] FIG. 20 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the fastener can define a pattern 2070, which can be the pattern 470 repeated in the lateral direction 404 with an extra longitudinal row of ribs 435 in between the two or more rows of ribs 435 straddling, i.e., positioned on either side of, the row of hooks 425. The extra longitudinal row of ribs 435 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 with respect to the row of hooks 425. The pattern 2070 can thus be a rib-rib- rib -hook-rib -rib -rib arrangement, where the ribs 430 of the middle row of ribs 435 on each side of the hook can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the adjacent rows of ribs 435. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the double-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8 A, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

[0066] FIG. 21 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the rows of ribs 435 can be positioned only outside the row or rows of hooks 425 in the lateral direction 404 relative to a centerline of the fastener 110. As shown, adjacent longitudinal rows of ribs 435 can be offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 by the stagger interval 1760. In some aspects, as shown, a plurality of the rows of hooks 425 can be positioned adjacent to each other and inboard of any of the rows of ribs 435 without, in some aspects, any rows of ribs 435 therebetween. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the double-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8 A, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

[0067] FIG. 22 is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include circular or rounded hook elements 820, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9 A. The tip 820b of the hook element 820 of each of the plurality of hooks 420 of a row of hooks such as, for example and without limitation, the row of hooks 425 can extend in the lateral direction 404 past the hook base 840. In some aspects, the tip 820b can extend in both the longitudinal direction 403 and the lateral direction 404. In some aspects, as shown, the tip 820b can extend in all directions. More specifically, any one or more of the hook element 820, the tip 820b, and the hook base 840 can be formed by revolution of a shape about an axis 2201 of the hook 420. In some aspects, as shown, the hook 420 can have radial symmetry or rotational symmetry about the axis 2201. In some aspects, as shown, the tip 820b can define an ellipsoid shape or a shape that is substantially an ellipsoid shape. In some aspects, as shown, the hook base 840 can define a frustoconical shape. Overall, as described also with respect to the geometry shown in FIG. 8F, the hook 420 can define a mushroom or bulbous shape. The hooks 420 can define hook-receiving areas 880 therebetween, which can be defined by three or four of the hooks 420 depending on whether or not the rows of hooks 425 are offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 as shown.

[0068] FIG. 23 is a side top perspective view, FIG. 24 is a side elevation view, and FIG. 25 is an end view or front view of the fastener 110 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Again, the rows of hooks 425 and the rows of ribs 435 can together form multiple instances of the pattern 470 (i.e., rib-hook-rib). In some aspects, as shown, adjacent patterns 470 can be offset with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403. Such an arrangement of the rows 425, 435 can help prevent the hooks 420 and the ribs 430 and, more generally, the fasteners 110a, 110b (shown in FIG. 26) from falling off track (i.e., out of alignment) when the fasteners 110a, 110b are engaged, and can facilitate proper alignment from a point of initial engagement. More specifically, placement of one or more hooks 420 in a first row of hooks 425 adjacent to one or more hook-receiving areas 880 in a second, adjacent row of hooks 425 of each of the fasteners 110a, 110b can limit or arrest movement of the fastener 110b with respect to the fastener 110a in the lateral direction 404 because the one or more hooks 420 in the separate fasteners 110a, 110b will block movement of each other in the lateral direction 404. Similarly, placement one or more ribs 430 in a first row of ribs 435 adjacent to one or more rib-receiving areas 980 in a second, adjacent row of ribs 435 of each of the fasteners 110a, 110b can limit or arrest movement of the fastener 110b with respect to the fastener 110a in the lateral direction 404 because the one or more ribs 430 in the separate fasteners 110a, 110b will block movement of each other in the lateral direction 404. Such a staggered arrangement can also facilitate an improved seal between the fasteners 110a, 110b. As shown, the rows of hooks 425 can include the double-hook elements 820 of FIG. 8 A, and the rows of ribs 435 can include the substantially trapezoidal rib elements 930 of FIG. 9A.

[0069] FIGs. 26 to 33 show the fastener assembly 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of the fastener assembly 100, which can include two mating instances of the fastener 110 of FIGs. 4 A to 4C: the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b, which can be configured to face and engage with the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, a structure of the second fastener 110b can be identical to a structure of the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, a structure of the second fastener 110b can be a mirror of the structure of the first fastener 110a.

[0070] FIGs. 27 and 28 are sectional views of the two mating instances of the fastener 110a, 110b of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly 100 in unassembled and assembled conditions, respectively. As shown, each hook-receiving area 880 defined between each pair of adjacent hooks 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of the first fastener 110a can be sized to receive a corresponding hook 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b.

[0071] FIGs. 29 and 30 are sectional views of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 26 and with the fastener assembly in unassembled and assembled conditions, 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 sized to receive a corresponding rib 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b.

[0072] FIGs. 31 and 32 are side elevation views of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 in unassembled and assembled conditions, respectively, and FIG. 33 is an end view or front view of the fastener assembly 100 of FIG. 26 in the assembled condition. The tapered shape of each of the ribs 430 can facilitate a meshing together of the fasteners 110a, 110b such that the ribs 430 of the fastener 110b are received within and seal against the ribs 430 of the fastener 110a. The hooks 420 of the corresponding fasteners 110a, 110b can maintain the seal by engaging with each other in a locking arrangement. The locking arrangement can be sufficiently strong to resist the stresses caused by vibration and tampering (by young children, for example) but sufficiently weak to facilitate disengagement when so desired. In some aspects, the holding force resulting from the engaged hooks 420 can arrest passage of a fluid through the fastener assembly 100 at the rows of ribs 435. In some aspects, the fastener assembly 100 can be repeatedly assembled and engaged and disassembled or disengaged, which can allow reuse of the storage device 60 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0073] As shown in FIGs. 32 and 33, the fasteners 110a, 110b and portions thereof can define a variety of dimensions and proportions. In some aspects, one or both of the spacing intervals 1650, 1660 can be 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, one or both of the spacing intervals 1650, 1660 can be more or less than 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the thickness 610 of the base 410 can measure 0.20 millimeters. In some aspects, one or both of the heights 620,

630 of the hooks 420 and the ribs 430, respectively, can measure 0.50 millimeters.

[0074] In some aspects, an overall fastener height H of the fasteners 110a, 110b can measure about 0.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure about 0.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure about 0.60 millimeters.

In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure about 0.70 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure about 0.80 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure about 0.90 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure about 1.00 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can measure less than any of the aforementioned values or in any range therebetween.

[0075] In some aspects, an overall assembly height 3220 of the fastener assembly 100 can measure about 0.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 0.60 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 0.70 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 0.80 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 0.90 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.00 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.10 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.20 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.60 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.70 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.80 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 1.90 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure about 2.00 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall assembly height 3220 can measure less than any of the aforementioned values or in any range therebetween. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be equal to or more than twice the thickness 610 of the base 410. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be equal to or more than 2.5 times the thickness 610 of the base 410. In some aspects, the overall fastener height H can be equal to or more than three times the thickness 610 of the base 410.

[0076] In some aspects, the spacing or pitch such as the spacing interval 1660 between the ribs 430 (or, similarly, the spacing interval 1650 between the hooks 420) in the longitudinal direction 403 can be about 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacing such as the spacing interval 1660 between ribs 430 (or, similarly, the spacing interval 1650 between the hooks 420) in the longitudinal direction 403 can be less than 1.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacing such as the spacing interval 1660 between ribs 430 (or, similarly, the spacing interval 1650 between the hooks 420) in the longitudinal direction 403 can be more than 1.30 millimeters.

[0077] In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 33, a width 3310 of each of the hooks 420 and the ribs 430 can measure about 0.10 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure about 0.15 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure about 0.20 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure about 0.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure about 0.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure about 0.50 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure less than any of the aforementioned values or in any range therebetween.

[0078] In some aspects, a spacer gap 3320 can measure about 0.05 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can measure about 0.10 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can measure about 0.15 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can measure about 0.20 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can measure about 0.30 millimeters. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 can measure about 0.40 millimeters. In some aspects, the width 3310 can measure less than any of the aforementioned values or in any range therebetween.

[0079] In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b and the fastener assembly 100 can measure about 8 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can measure about 10 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can measure about 20 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can measure about 30 millimeters. In some aspects, the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can measure less than any of the aforementioned values or in any range therebetween. Widening the overall width W of the fasteners 110a, 110b can improve a connection strength and sealing performance of the fastener assembly 100. [0080] A fastening field (not shown) of the hooks 420 and/or the ribs 430 can extend less than a full length of the fastener or can include different patterns of longitudinal rows of the hooks 420 and/or the ribs in different portions of the fastener 110 along the longitudinal direction 403 thereof.

[0081] In some aspects, in a “bi-directional” orientation of the hooks 420, a tip 820a or other portion of a first set of the hooks 420 can extend in a first direction (e.g., along the longitudinal direction 403 and towards the second end 406) and a tip 820a or other portion of a second set of the hooks 420 can extend in a second direction differing from the first direction such as, for example and without limitation, a direction that is opposite from the first direction. Extending in a particular direction such as the first direction or the second direction can mean that each of the tips 820a is aligned with and extends from the hook elements 820, respectively, in such a direction. In some aspects, the height 620 of each of the hooks 420 can be greater than a height 630 of each of the ribs 430, or vice versa. In some aspects, the presence of the ribs 430 can protect the hooks 420 from impact by objects such as a board that is laid on top of or positioned to impact the fastener 110. The presence of the ribs 430 can also protect portions of the fastener assembly 100 during manufacture and assembly of the fastening system 50 by allowing the use of automated equipment that contacts the ribs 430 but not the typically more loadsensitive hooks 420. When the height 630 is greater than the height 620, objects coming into contact with the fastener 110 cannot as easily damage the hooks 420.

[0082] In some aspects, as shown in Coronel, pairs of adjacent hooks, adjacent ribs, or adjacent hooks and ribs, can be joined by joining ribs (not shown) defining a rib height, which can be equal to or less than half the heights 620, 630. As shown, not joining each of the hooks 420 or ribs 430 in a longitudinal row with corresponding hooks 420 or ribs 430 in an adjacent longitudinal row can result in a less rigid fastener 110 and fastener assembly 100, which is more 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). Conversely, joining each of the hooks 420 or ribs 430 in a longitudinal row with corresponding hooks 420 or ribs 430 in an adjacent longitudinal row can result in a more rigid or stiff fastener 110 and fastener assembly 100, which is generally 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, for example and without limitation, 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 remain securely in a neighboring structure such as, for example and without limitation, the fastener holder 350a, 350b.

[0083] In some aspects, the fastening system 50 and, more specifically, the fastener assembly 100 can be mounted in a vertical orientation. The fastener assembly 100a, 100b can include the fastener 110a mounted in the fastener holder 350a, 350b. The fastening system 50 can further include the panel 300, which can be a gym mat or a wall covering including fastener material. The fastener holder 350a, 350b can be mounted on a vertical wall surface or any other vertical surface and can fastenably receive the panel 300.

[0084] A method of using the fastener assembly 100 can include engaging the second fastener 110b to the first fastener 110a. Engaging the second fastener 110b to the first fastener 110a can include receiving a corresponding hook 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b within 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 to the first fastener 110a can include receiving a corresponding rib 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b within 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 an identical structure as the first fastener 110a and a mirrored structure of the first fastener 110a.

[0085] The method can include sealing a connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b by mating 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 a connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b by mating 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. In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 31, sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b can include eliminating any pathway for passage of a fluid including, for example and without limitation, air, water, or the contents of a container such as the container 80 (shown in FIG. 1) at any portion of the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener assembly 100 by closing a gap 3180 between the ribs 430 of the mating fasteners 110a, 110b. More specifically, sealing the connection between the fasteners 110a, 110b can include creating 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 arresting such passage of the fluid along multiple lines of sealing across the width W of the fastener 110. Such lines of sealing can occur at each interface between mating rows of ribs 435, one from each of two mating fasteners 110a, 110b. The method can include limiting movement of the second fastener 110b with respect 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 need not be moved in the lateral direction 404 with respect 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 as shown in FIG. 26 — and as shown in other figures showing the fastener assembly 100 — without any movement of the fasteners 110a, 110b with respect to each other in the lateral direction 404. The method can include limiting movement of the second fastener 110b with respect 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 mating hooks 420 or mating ribs 430 of the fasteners 110a, 110b.

[0086] More specifically, creating the fluid-tight seal at the gap 3180 can include facing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of a portion of the fastener 110 defining the ribs 430, which can be the rib 430 itself or an adjacent portion of the fastener 110 defining the rib-receiving area 980, contacting each other during assembly of the fasteners 110a, 110b. In some aspects, creating the fluid-tight seal at the gap 3180 can include facing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of the portion of the fastener 110 defining the ribs 430 remaining in contact with each other after assembly of the fasteners 110a, 110b and, more specifically, after engagement of the mating hooks 420 of the fasteners 110a, 110b. In some aspects, creating the fluid-tight seal at the gap 3180 can include the facing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of portion of the fastener 110 defining the ribs 430 remaining in loaded contact (i.e., contact under load due to the engagement of the fasteners 110a, 110b) with each other after assembly of the fasteners 110a, 110b and, 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 to not slide with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 or in the lateral direction 404.

[0087] Each of the bases 410, the hooks 420, and the ribs 430 of the fasteners 110, 110a, 110b can be formed from any one of a variety of polymer resins including, for example and without limitation, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), a polyamide (e.g., NYLON resin), or polypropylene (PP); or any other materials. The material forming the fasteners 110a, 110b can be clear, i.e., transparent or substantially so.

[0088] The fastener 110 can be manufactured using any one of a variety of methods, including those methods 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 hereby incorporated 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 quickly cooled after molding but before removal from the dies so as 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), particularly when the container 80 is also formed from a plastic resin and more specifically, the LDPE or any compatible resin.

[0089] One should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular aspect.

[0090] It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process descriptions or blocks in flow diagrams should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code which include one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included in which functions may not be included or executed at all, may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described aspect(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any and all combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects discussed above. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure.

Claims

34 Claims

[Claim 1] A fastener assembly comprising: a first fastener; and a second fastener configured to face and engage with the first fastener, each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks of the longitudinal row of hooks spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks and defining a hook-receiving area therebetween; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs of each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the respective adjacent ribs and defining a rib-receiving area therebetween, the longitudinal row of hooks positioned in a lateral direction between the two longitudinal rows of ribs; wherein: each hook-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener is sized to receive a corresponding hook of a 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 sized to receive a corresponding rib of a plurality of ribs of the second fastener; and 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.

[Claim 2] The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein a facing surface of a rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener contacts a facing surface of a rib-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[Claim 3] The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein each hook of the plurality of hooks defines an undercut facing in at least one direction when the fastener is viewed from above along a vertical direction of the fastener. 35

[Claim 4] The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein each rib of the plurality of ribs defines a substantially polygonal shape when viewed along the lateral direction of the fastener.

[Claim 5] The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein a rib-hook-rib pattern defined by the fastener of the longitudinal row of hooks being positioned in the lateral direction between the two longitudinal rows of ribs is repeated as a repeat pattern at least once in the lateral direction of the fastener.

[Claim 6] The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein a common longitudinal row of ribs is shared by each of the rib-hook-rib pattern and the repeat pattern.

[Claim 7] A fastener comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks of the longitudinal row of hooks spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks, the adjacent hooks defining a hook-receiving area therebetween, the hook-receiving area sized to receive a corresponding hook of a plurality of hooks of another fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs of each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs spaced apart by a spacing interval measured between centerlines of the adjacent ribs, the adjacent ribs defining a rib-receiving area therebetween, the longitudinal row of hooks positioned in a lateral direction between the two longitudinal rows of ribs, the rib-receiving area sized to receive a corresponding rib of a plurality of ribs of the other fastener.

[Claim 8] 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, a shape of each of the plurality of rib-receiving areas as viewed along the lateral direction being an inverse of a shape of a corresponding rib of the plurality of ribs.

[Claim 9] The fastener of claim 7, wherein a rib-hook-rib pattern defined by the fastener of the longitudinal row of hooks being positioned in the lateral direction between the two longitudinal rows of ribs is repeated as a repeat pattern at least once in the lateral direction of the fastener.

[Claim 10] The fastener of claim 7, wherein the two longitudinal rows of ribs define a first row of ribs and a second row of ribs, the fastener further comprising a third row of ribs, the third row of ribs offset in the lateral direction of the fastener from each of the first row of ribs and the second row of ribs.

[Claim 11] The fastener of claim 10, wherein a centerline of at least one rib in the third row of ribs is offset in a longitudinal direction of the fastener by a stagger interval from a centerline of a rib in the first row of ribs, the stagger interval being different than the spacing interval or a multiple thereof.

[Claim 12] The fastener of claim 7, wherein the row of hooks is a first row of hooks, the fastener further comprising a second row of hooks, the second row of hooks offset in the lateral direction of the fastener from each of the first row of hooks, the first row of ribs, and the second row of ribs.

[Claim 13] The fastener of claim 7, wherein the fastener is monolithically formed from a plastic resin.

[Claim 14] The fastener of claim 7, wherein each rib defines a flat facing surface, the facing surface being aligned with the lateral direction of the fastener.

[Claim 15] The fastener of claim 7, wherein a tip of each rib of at least one row of ribs of the two longitudinal rows of ribs defines a ridge, a thickness of the ridge in the lateral direction of the fastener being less than a thickness of the rib in the lateral direction, adjacent ribs of the at least one row of ribs defining a rib-receiving area therebetween, the rib-receiving area defined between the adjacent ribs defining a slot therein to receive a ridge of a corresponding rib of the other fastener.

[Claim 16] A method comprising: engaging a second fastener to a first fastener with an assembly force to form a fastener assembly, each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base; wherein engaging the second fastener to the first fastener comprises: receiving a hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener within 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 within a corresponding rib-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[Claim 17] The method of claim 16, further comprising sealing a connection between the first fastener and the second fastener against passage of a fluid therebetween.

[Claim 18] The method of claim 16, further comprising: engaging the hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener with the corresponding hook-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener; and contacting a facing surface of the corresponding rib-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener with a facing surface of the rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener.

[Claim 19] The method of claim 18, further comprising: maintaining contact between the facing surface of the rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener with the facing surface of the corresponding rib-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener after engaging the hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener with the corresponding hook-receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener and removal of the assembly force.

[Claim 20] The method of claim 16, further comprising: 38 limiting movement of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener in a lateral direction of the fastener assembly by at least one of: interference between the plurality of hooks of the first fastener and the plurality of hooks of the second fastener; and interference between the plurality of ribs of the first fastener and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener.

[Claim 21] A fastener assembly comprising: a first fastener; and a second fastener configured to face and engage with the first fastener, each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base; wherein 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.

[Claim 22] The fastener assembly of claim 1, wherein one of a width of each of the plurality of hooks and a width of each of the plurality of ribs is less than or equal to 0.50 millimeters.

[Claim 23] The fastener assembly of claim 1, further defining an overall assembly height equal to or less than about 2.0 millimeters.

[Claim 24] The fastener of claim 7, further defining an overall fastener height equal to or less than about 1.0 millimeters.

[Claim 25] The fastener of claim 7, further defining an overall fastener width equal to or less than about 30 millimeters.