U.S. patent application number 10/094524 was filed with the patent office on 2003-09-11 for fastening strap system.
Invention is credited to Schultz, Joseph P..
Application Number | 20030167605 10/094524 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27788128 |
Filed Date | 2003-09-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030167605 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schultz, Joseph P. |
September 11, 2003 |
Fastening strap system
Abstract
A fastening strap system, particularly of the hook-and-loop
variety (with hooks on one side of the strap and loops on the other
side), for selectively and independently binding and/or releasing a
plurality of sets of essentially longitudinal objects, such as
wires, from one another. Each system includes at least two attached
straps which each independently of the other may be used to
loopably bind objects. A preferred aperture between the straps
permits cinching of each strap. A continuous strip of such
two-sided material may be stored on a reel and is designed so that
a user may select a preferred length and configuration for a
particular use by making a single cut of the material strip from
the reel-strip end.
Inventors: |
Schultz, Joseph P.;
(Phoenix, AZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STONEMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD
3113 NORTH 3RD STREET
PHOENIX
AZ
85012
US
|
Family ID: |
27788128 |
Appl. No.: |
10/094524 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
24/306 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A44B 18/00 20130101;
B65D 63/10 20130101; B65D 2313/02 20130101; Y10T 24/2708
20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
24/306 |
International
Class: |
A44B 021/00; A44B
011/25; A44B 001/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1) A fastening strap system for selectively removably binding
together a plurality of objects, comprising: a) a plurality of
attached fastening strap elements, each said fastening strap
element comprising i) at least one first side, ii) at least one
second side, and iii) at least one strap end portion; b) wherein at
least one first and at least one second respective said fastening
strap elements each respectively comprise i) at least one first
surface portion of said at least first side of said at least one
strap end portion, and ii) at least one second surface portion of
at least one said second side; c) wherein said at least one first
surface portion of said at least one first respective fastening
strap element and said at least one second surface portion of said
at least one first respective fastening strap element are
structured and arranged to promote binding between said at least
one first surface portion of said at least one first respective
fastening strap element and said at least one second surface
portion of said at least one first respective fastening strap
element when said at least one first surface portion of said at
least one first respective fastening strap element comes in contact
with said at least one second surface portion of said at least one
first respective fastening strap element; d) wherein said at least
one first surface portion of said at least one second respective
fastening strap element and said at least one second surface
portion of said at least one second respective fastening strap
element are structured and arranged to promote binding between said
at least one first surface portion of said at least one second
respective fastening strap element and said at least one second
surface portion of said at least one second respective fastening
strap element when said at least one first surface portion of said
at least one second respective fastening strap element comes in
contact with said at least one second surface portion of said at
least one second respective fastening strap element; e) wherein
each said respective at least one fastening strap element is
structured and arranged to removably loopably bind at least one
such object; and f) wherein said fastening strap system is
structured and arranged to permit at least each said respective at
least one fastening strap element, when loopably binding such at
least one object, to close with said at least one strap end portion
of said each respective at least one fastening strap element in an
exterior position relative to said respective at least one
fastening strap element.
2) The fastening strap system according to claim 1 wherein said
fastening strap system is structured and arranged to permit each
said respective at least one fastening strap element to removably
loopably bind such at least one object as an operation independent
from a similar operation of each other said respective at least one
fastening strap element.
3) The fastening strap system according to claim 1 wherein said
plurality of attached fastening strap elements comprises at least
three fastening strap elements.
4) The fastening strap system according to claim 1 wherein said
plurality of attached fastening strap elements comprises at least
four fastening strap elements.
5) The fastening strap system according to claim 1 further
comprising at least one cincher structured and arranged to permit
cinching of at least one of said plurality of attached fastening
strap elements.
6) The fastening strap system according to claim 5 wherein: a) said
at least one cincher comprises at least one aperture; and b) at
least one of said plurality of attached fastening strap elements is
passable at least once through said aperture.
7) The fastening strap system according to claim 6 wherein a
circumference of said at least one aperture comprises at least one
straight transverse edge.
8) The fastening strap system according to claim 6 wherein said
plurality of attached fastening strap elements and said at least
one aperture comprise one integral piece of fastener material.
9) The fastening strap system according to claim 6 wherein said
aperture comprises at least one buckle mechanically attached to at
least two said fastening strap elements.
10) The fastening strap system according to claim 6 wherein at
least one of said plurality of attached fastening strap elements is
at most 90% the width of at least one other of said plurality of
attached fastening strap elements.
11) The fastening strap system according to claim 6 wherein at
least one of said plurality of fastening strap elements is at most
half the length of at least one other of said plurality of
fastening straps.
12) The fastening strap system of claim 1 wherein said plurality of
attached fastening strap elements comprises one integral piece of
fastener material.
13) The fastening strap system of claim 1 wherein at least one said
fastener strap element comprises a label.
14) The fastening strap system of claim 13 wherein said label is
comprises a hook-and-loop material upon which indicia can be
written.
15) The fastening strap system according to claim 14 wherein said
fastener strap is primarily white.
16) The fastening strap system according to claim 14 wherein said
fastener strap is primarily off-white.
17) A continuous-strap system for allowing a user to create a
plurality of custom-sized fastening strap systems for selectively
removably binding a plurality of objects, comprising a continuous
length of material structured and arranged to permit the user to
cut off a user-selected portion of said continuous length of
material, wherein said continuous length of material is structured
and arranged so that the user may cut off a plurality of adjacent
cut-off portions each comprising a such custom-sized fastening
strap system comprising: a) a plurality of attached fastening strap
elements, each said fastening strap element comprising i) at least
one first side, ii) at least one second side, and iii) at least one
strap end portion; b) wherein at least one first and at least one
second respective said fastening strap elements each respectively
comprise i) at least one first surface portion of said at least
first side of said at least one strap end portion, and ii) at least
one second surface portion of at least one said second side; c)
wherein said at least one first surface portion of said at least
one first respective fastening strap element and said at least one
second surface portion of said at least one first respective
fastening strap element are structured and arranged to promote
binding between said at least one first surface portion of said at
least one first respective fastening strap element and said at
least one second surface portion of said at least one first
respective fastening strap element when said at least one first
surface portion of said at least one first respective fastening
strap element comes in contact with said at least one second
surface portion of said at least one first respective fastening
strap element; d) wherein said at least one first surface portion
of said at least one second respective fastening strap element and
said at least one second surface portion of said at least one
second respective fastening strap element are structured and
arranged to promote binding between said at least one first surface
portion of said at least one second respective fastening strap
element and said at least one second surface portion of said at
least one second respective fastening strap element when said at
least one first surface portion of said at least one second
respective fastening strap element comes in contact with said at
least one second surface portion of said at least one second
respective fastening strap element; e) wherein each said respective
at least one fastening strap element is structured and arranged to
removably loopably bind at least one such object; and i) wherein
said fastening strap system is structured and arranged to permit at
least each said respective at least one fastening strap element,
when loopably binding such at least one object, to close with said
at least one strap end portion of said each respective at least one
fastening strap element in an exterior position relative to said
respective at least one fastening strap element.
18) The continuous-strap system according to claim 17 wherein said
continuous length of material comprises a plurality of
apertures.
19) The continuous-strap system of claim 18 wherein said continuous
length of material alternates between wider and thinner widths at
regular intervals.
20) The continuous-strap system of claim 19 wherein each
alternating said wider width has a substantially longer length than
each alternating said thinner width.
21) The continuous-strap system of claim 20 wherein said continuous
length of material comprises an aperture adjacent at least one end
portion of each said alternating wider width.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] This invention relates to fastening strap systems using
materials of the "Velcro.TM." kind. More particularly, it relates
to such fastening strap systems as may be suited for the securing
together of more than one bundle or set of substantially elongated
items such as cables, wires, pens, skis, pipe, tent poles, boards,
angle iron, golf clubs, etc., and/or tying down such bundle(s) by
securing such to an "anchor" such as a computer or table leg,
etc.
[0002] When addressing the fastening or securing of bundles of
substantially elongated items such as cables, wires, pens, skis,
pipe, tent poles, boards, angle iron, golf clubs, etc. etc., a need
exists to securely fasten all the items to each other in a bundle
while still allowing for the selective release of certain members
of the bundle. While generic tying or binding materials exist such
as string, tape, etc., these materials have many drawbacks related
to tape glue residue, the thin material of the material causing
cuts into the bound items, and a lack of selective fastening and/or
release. Although some fastening materials or systems exist that
are constructed of hook and loop fasteners (generally known under
the trademark of Velcro.TM.) which address some of the above
problems such as tape glue residue and the binding material cutting
into the bound material, problems still exist with the prior art
hook and loop binding systems and materials.
[0003] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show a prior art fastening strap. Velcro,
Inc., makes a fastener material which is a double-sided material
with fastening hooks on one surface and fastening loops on the
opposite surface, an example of which is shown in FIG. 20. This
fastener material is marketed by Velcro Industries under the trade
names GET-A-GRIP.TM. and ONE-WRAP.TM.. The GET-A-GRIP.TM. straps
provide a strap with an aperture at one end and with a pulling end
at the other end that allows a user to pull on the free end of the
strap and cinch a bundle prior to fastening the hook and loop
surfaces together. An example of such a strap might be similar to
the strap illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 which show respectively: a
prior art fastening strap 114 with a pulling end 118 and aperture
end 116, wrapped around a bundle 112; and a sheet 120 of
double-sided fastening strap material apportioned for die cut
manufacturing of the fastening straps.
[0004] There are however, undesirable limitations to this prior
art. For example, the pulling end 118 of the GET-A-GRIP.TM. strap
has the disadvantage of being extremely short, and thus it is
practically incapable of bundling another object to a first object.
Given a desire to integrally connect a first set of bundled objects
A to a second set B of bundled objects, there is a need for a
fastening strap system that permits tightly cinching the first set
of objects to achieve a better total fit around all the bundled A
and B sets of objects. And it would be desirable to have a
fastening strap system that can fasten both a set A and a set B (in
a manner not conducive to "normal" loosening by "normal" forces),
but then allow the release of either set A or set B while leaving
the remaining set fastened intact, which could then be immediately
attachable to a third set C. And it would be desirable to have a
secure fastening strap system that could release either of two
fastened sets, i.e. a cord bundle and its plug, independently at
will. Further, it would be desirable to have an improved fastening
strap system for securing two items or sets of items together which
allows separation of either set immediately with a minimum of
manipulation while also maintaining a relatively strong fastening
grip when fastened. And it would be desirable to have a
self-fastening strap, made of a self fastening material such as
hook and loop material, which could be anchored with relative ease
without having to unwind the entire strap or unbundle and unwind
the entire strap, or which, with relatively less problems of
tangling and prematurely self-fastening, could be easily
accomplished by a single hand. And it would be desirable to have a
self-fastening strap, made of a self-fastening material such as
hook and loop material, which could be released without having to
unbundle and unwind the entire strap, or which might be released
easily from an anchored position with a single hand. It would also
be desirable, among a long list of associated needs, to provide a
better method of manufacture of fastening strap systems which
include desired features and to provide better methods of
dispensing, packaging, and use of such fastening strap systems.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0005] It is a primary object and feature of this invention to
fulfill the above-mentioned needs and the other needs apparent from
the discussion of this specification.
[0006] Another object and feature of the present invention is to
provide a fastener strap system that can be used efficiently and
effectively as an adjustable belt or strap without significant
material design changes or functional limitations. It is another
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a
fastener strap system that provides for the selective and
independent binding and release of multiple bundles of items from
one another. It is another object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a fastener strap system that is less
likely to unintentionally come undone.
[0007] It is yet another object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a fastener strap system that can be
easily anchored. It is yet another object and feature of the
present invention to provide such a fastener system that can be
used to label the bundled object(s). Another object and feature of
the present invention is to provide such a fastener strap system
that can be tailored by a user to fit different applications. It is
yet another object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a fastener system that is efficiently and
inexpensively manufactured and efficient to use.
[0008] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of
the present invention will be apparent from the following, more
particular, description of the embodiments of the invention, as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a fastening strap system for selectively
removably binding together a plurality of objects, comprising: a
plurality of attached fastening strap elements, each such fastening
strap element comprising, at least one first side, at least one
second side, and at least one strap end portion; wherein at least
one first and at least one second respective fastening strap
elements each respectively comprise, at least one first surface
portion of such at least first side of such at least one strap end
portion, and at least one second surface portion of at least one
such second side; wherein such at least one first surface portion
of such at least one first respective fastening strap element and
such at least one second surface portion of such at least one first
respective fastening strap element are structured and arranged to
promote binding between such at least one first surface portion of
such at least one first respective fastening strap element and such
at least one second surface portion of such at least one first
respective fastening strap element when such at least one first
surface portion of such at least one first respective fastening
strap element comes in contact with such at least one second
surface portion of such at least one first respective fastening
strap element; wherein such at least one first surface portion of
such at least one second respective fastening strap element and
such at least one second surface portion of such at least one
second respective fastening strap element are structured and
arranged to promote binding between such at least one first surface
portion of such at least one second respective fastening strap
element and such at least one second surface portion of such at
least one second respective fastening strap element when such at
least one first surface portion of such at least one second
respective fastening strap element comes in contact with such at
least one second surface portion of such at least one second
respective fastening strap element; wherein each such respective at
least one fastening strap element is structured and arranged to
removably loopably bind at least one such object; and wherein such
fastening strap system is structured and arranged to permit at
least each such respective at least one fastening strap element,
when loopably binding such at least one object, to close with such
at least one strap end portion of such each respective at least one
fastening strap element in an exterior position.
[0010] It also provides such a fastening strap system wherein such
fastening strap system is structured and arranged to permit each
such respective at least one fastening strap element to removably
loopably bind such at least one object as an operation independent
from a similar operation of each other such respective at least one
fastening strap element. And it provides such a fastening strap
system wherein such plurality of attached fastening strap elements
comprises at least three fastening strap elements. It further
provides such a fastening strap system wherein such plurality of
attached fastening strap elements comprises at least four fastening
strap elements. It also provides such a fastening strap system
further comprising at least one cincher structured and arranged to
permit cinching of at least one of such plurality of attached
fastening strap elements. It also provides such a fastening strap
system wherein: such at least one cincher comprises at least one
aperture; and at least one of such plurality of attached fastening
strap elements is passable at least once through such aperture. And
it provides such a fastening strap system wherein a circumference
of such at least one aperture comprises substantially straight
transverse edge. Further, it provides such a fastening strap system
wherein such plurality of attached fastening strap elements and
such at least one aperture comprise one integral piece of fastener
material.
[0011] Moreover, this invention provides such a fastening strap
system wherein such substantially rectangular open center comprises
at least one buckle mechanically attached to at least two such
fastening strap elements. It also provides such a fastening strap
system wherein at least one of such plurality of attached fastening
strap elements is at most half the width of at least one other of
such plurality of attached fastening strap elements. And it
provides such a fastening strap system wherein at least one of such
plurality of fastening strap elements is at most half the length of
at least one other of such plurality of fastening straps. It
further provides such a fastening strap system wherein such
plurality of attached fastening strap elements comprises one
integral piece of fastener material. It also provides such a
fastening strap system wherein at least one such fastener strap
element comprises a label. And it provides such a fastening strap
system wherein such label is comprises a hook-and-loop material
upon which indicia can be written. It also provides such a
fastening strap system wherein such fastener strap is primarily
white. And it also provides such a fastening strap system wherein
such fastener strap is primarily off-white.
[0012] Yet in addition, in accordance with a preferred embodiment
hereof, this invention provides a continuous-strap system for
allowing a user to create a plurality of custom-sized fastening
strap systems for selectively removably binding a plurality of
objects, comprising a continuous length of material structured and
arranged to permit the user to cut off a user-selected portion of
such continuous length of material, wherein such continuous length
of material is structured and arranged so that the user may cut off
a plurality of adjacent cut-off portions each comprising a
custom-sized fastening strap system comprising: a plurality of
attached fastening strap elements, each such fastening strap
element comprising at least one first side, at least one second
side, and at least one strap end portion; wherein at least one
first and at least one second respective such fastening strap
elements each respectively comprise, at least one first surface
portion of such at least first side of such at least one strap end
portion, and at least one second surface portion of at least one
such second side; wherein such at least one first surface portion
of such at least one first respective fastening strap element and
such at least one second surface portion of such at least one first
respective fastening strap element are structured and arranged to
promote binding between such at least one first surface portion of
such at least one first respective fastening strap element and such
at least one second surface portion of such at least one first
respective fastening strap element when such at least one first
surface portion of such at least one first respective fastening
strap element comes in contact with such at least one second
surface portion of such at least one first respective fastening
strap element; wherein such at least one first surface portion of
such at least one second respective fastening strap element and
such at least one second surface portion of such at least one
second respective fastening strap element are structured and
arranged to promote binding between such at least one first surface
portion of such at least one second respective fastening strap
element and such at least one second surface portion of such at
least one second respective fastening strap element when such at
least one first surface portion of such at least one second
respective fastening strap element comes in contact with such at
least one second surface portion of such at least one second
respective fastening strap element; wherein each such respective at
least one fastening strap element is structured and arranged to
removably loopably bind at least one such object; and wherein such
fastening strap system is structured and arranged to permit at
least each such respective at least one fastening strap element,
when loopably binding such at least one object, to close with such
at least one strap end portion of such each respective at least one
fastening strap element in an exterior position.
[0013] Additionally, it provides such a continuous-strap system
wherein such continuous length of material comprises a plurality of
apertures. It also provides such a continuous-strap system wherein
such continuous length of material alternates between wider and
thinner widths at regular intervals.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 shows a prior art fastening strap wrapped around a
bundle.
[0015] FIG. 2 shows a sheet of prior art fastening strap material
apportioned for die cut manufacturing.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a plan view of an offset-relationship two-ended
strap in an embodiment of the present invention, showing a single
strap cut from a sheet of material used in embodiments of the
present invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the offset-relationship
two-ended strap of FIG. 3, shown bundling two separate sets of
items together in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the
offset-relationship two-ended strap of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a plan view of an embodiment of the present
invention, a parallel-relationship two-ended strap.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a side view of the parallel-relationship two-ended
strap of FIG. 6 with the two straps formed into loops.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the parallel-relationship
two-ended strap of FIGS. 6 and 7 in an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the parallel-relationship
two-ended strap of FIGS. 6-8, shown in use around two separate
cylindrical items in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an embodiment of the present
invention, a parallel-relationship four-ended strap.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a side view of the opposed-parallel-relationship
four-ended strap of FIG. 10 with the four straps formed into
loops.
[0025] FIG. 12 is a plan view of an embodiment of the present
invention, a parallel-relationship three-ended strap.
[0026] FIG. 13 is a side view of the parallel-relationship
three-ended strap of FIG. 12 with the three straps formed into
loops surrounding three cylindrical tubular objects.
[0027] FIG. 14 is a plan view of an embodiment of the present
invention, a Y-configuration three-ended strap.
[0028] FIG. 15 is a side view of the Y-configuration three-ended
strap of FIG. 14 with the three straps formed into different size
loops.
[0029] FIG. 16 is a plan view of an embodiment of the present
invention, an open-center-configuration two-ended strap.
[0030] FIG. 17 is a side view of the open-center-configuration
two-ended strap of FIG. 16 shown with two loops formed with the
ends passing through the open-center.
[0031] FIG. 18 is a plan view of another embodiment of the
offset-relationship two-ended strap.
[0032] FIG. 19 (on sheet 5) is a plan view of a plurality of
open-center-configuration two-ended straps showing a preferred
material saving economical layout of the open-center-configuration
two-ended straps upon a sheet of material used in embodiments of
the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 20 is a close-up edge view of a hook and loop material
as used in embodiments of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 21 is a close-up edge view of a hook and hook material
as used in embodiments of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 22 is a plan view, showing both front and rear
surfaces, of an alternating hook/loop material used in embodiments
of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 23 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the
present invention, an open-center-configuration two-ended
strap.
[0037] FIG. 24 is a side partial view of an alternative embodiment
of the present invention, an open-center-configuration two-ended
strap.
[0038] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of the present invention, a two-ended strap with a thinner shorter
end and a wider longer end with a label.
[0039] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the fastener strap system
of FIG. 25, anchored to an object with the small strap.
[0040] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the fastener strap system
of FIG. 25, anchored to an object with the small strap and binding
a second object with the larger strap.
[0041] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of the present invention, a reel of a continuous length of strap
material with a plurality of apertures.
[0042] FIG. 29 is a plan view of a portion of the continuous length
of strap material shown in FIG. 28, along with indications of a
method of efficiently manufacturing such from a sheet of
material.
[0043] FIG. 30 is a plan view of a portion of an alternative
embodiment of the present invention, an alternative continuous
length of strap material with a plurality of apertures.
[0044] FIG. 31 shows a loop binding arrangement.
[0045] FIG. 32 shows a preferred loop binding arrangement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
[0046] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described
below. In such discussion reference will be made to hook and loop
fasteners. FIG. 20 is a close-up edge view of a hook and loop
material 160 as used in embodiments of the present invention. As
those skilled in the art will recognize, the hook and loop material
160 comprises loop material 162 and hook material 164.
Additionally, hook and loop material may also be made, according to
the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 22.
[0047] FIG. 22 is a plan view, showing both front and rear
surfaces, of an alternating hook/loop material used in some
embodiments of the present invention. The hook and loop material
170 comprises on a first side 171 diagonal bands of hook material
172 alternating with diagonal bands of loop material 174. The hook
and loop material 170 further comprises on a second side 173
diagonal bands of hook material 176 alternating with diagonal bands
of loop material 178. As can be seen the relationship between the
diagonal bands on the opposing sides 171 and 173 is such that the
diagonal rows are substantially perpendicular to each other.
[0048] Additionally, yet a third material used in preferred
embodiments of the present invention comprises a hook and hook
material as shown in FIG. 21. FIG. 21 is a close-up edge view of a
hook and hook material 168 as used in embodiments of the present
invention. The hook and hook material 168 comprises rows of hooks
166 on one or, as shown, both sides of the hook and hook material
168. The hook and hook material may be a preferable material for
the below described embodiments of the present invention in
appropriate circumstances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate
the features of all three of the above described fastener materials
and the desirability of their usage in appropriate circumstances.
Thus, although the below discussion makes reference to hook and
loop materials or fasteners, such usage is defined to comprise, in
appropriate circumstances, any of the above three described
fasteners.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 3, a plan view of an offset-relationship
two-ended strap 124 (embodying herein a fastening strap system),
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is
illustrated in which the offset-relationship two-ended strap 124 is
shown as having been cut from a single sheet 122 of material used
in embodiments of the present invention, wherein the layout of the
offset-relationship two-ended straps 124 upon the sheet 122 allows
an efficient manufacture of a plurality of offset-relationship
two-ended straps 124. As shown, the configuration of the straps is
such that successive offset-relationship two-ended straps 124
result from the placement and removal of adjacent
offset-relationship two-ended straps 124. Thus, those skilled in
the art will recognize that preferred embodiments of the fastening
straps, not only as shown in FIG. 3 but in subsequent embodiments
further described below of the present invention have features of
relatively inexpensive construction, saving both time and material.
As shown further, each offset-relationship two-ended strap 124
comprises an end 124a (embodying herein at least one first
fastening strap element comprising at least one first side, at
least one second side, and at least one strap end portion wherein
such at least one first fastening strap element comprises at least
one first surface portion of such at least first side of such at
least one strap end portion, and at least one second surface
portion of at least one such second side) and an end 124b
(embodying herein at least one second fastening strap element
comprising at least one first side, at least one second side, and
at least one strap end portion wherein such at least one first
fastening strap element comprises at least one first surface
portion of such at least first side of such at least one strap end
portion, and at least one second surface portion of at least one
such second side), each with first side 300 and second side 302,
having a parallel, offset, configuration.
[0050] It is very especially noted that, when using fasteners
comprising VELCRO.TM.-type material to form a loopable binding, the
position of the strap end 222 plays an important role in the
strength of the binding, and the likelihood of the binding
unintentionally coming undone. When the strap end 222 is fastened
inside the loop of the binding as in FIG. 31 it is much more likely
to unintentionally come undone, since a force 230 (such as gravity,
etc.) working on the bound object will tend to pull apart the
leading edge 226 of the bond 224 between the restrained portion 236
and the strap end 222, and such force will tend to "unravel" the
loop binding. Similarly an angular twisting force 234 will have a
similar unraveling effect. In FIG. 32 an offset (or an aperture
through the strap) allows strap end 222 to pass by (or through) the
restrained portion 236 near location 231, permitting the loop
binding to be closed with the strap end in the exterior position.
When the strap end 222 is fastened to the outside of the loop as in
FIG. 32 the binding is much less likely to unintentionally come
undone, since a force 230 working on the bound object will tend to
press the strap end 222 against the restrained portion 236 of the
fastening strap element 220, strengthening the leading edge 228 of
the bond 224. It is noted that the restrained end 236 is typically
restrained by the other object(s) to which the fastening strap
system is attached. Also note in FIG. 32 that a twisting force 235
does not unravel the trailing end 229 of the bond 224 since the
termination of the strap end 222 is not restrained. It is therefore
preferable for a loop binding to be arranged as in FIG. 32 with the
strap end 222 in an exterior position.
[0051] In a similar vein, it is also noted that it is preferable
that loop bindings close by forming a bond between first side 300
and second side 302, as shown in FIG. 32. Referring to FIG. 33
"Folding" first side 300 back upon another portion of first side
300 (even if the materials provide for such a bond) would result in
an arrangement less preferable, since a force 230 acting on an
enclosed object would work to pull apart the leading edge 226 of
the bond 224.
[0052] Thus, it can be seen that the offset, or a passage through
an aperture of the strap (as seen in later embodiments), allows
each strap to operate independently from the other, and permits
each strap to fasten with the strap end in an exterior position
(Examples shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 8, and FIG. 17). Without the offset
(or passage), the two (or more) straps interfere with each other,
preventing independent operation and proper closure with the strap
end in an exterior position.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 4, a perspective view of the
offset-relationship two-ended strap 124 of FIG. 3, such strap is
shown bundling two separate sets of items together according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the offset
relationship provides the feature of allowing the secure bundling
of a first set 126 by end 124b while also allowing the independent
secure bundling of a second set 128 by end 124a.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 5, another perspective view of the
offset-relationship two-ended strap of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 is shown.
The particular arrangement of the offset-relationship two-ended
strap 124 has a feature of being particularly well suited for the
bundling of objects where the wrapping motion used to place the two
ends 124a and 124b around the objects being bundled is best done
using opposite direction, or rotation wrapping movements, of the
strap ends 124a and 124b. As further shown, strap 124 comprises two
surfaces, a hook surface 127 and a loop surface 125. Thus, as can
be seen, each end 124a and 124b will fasten upon itself when looped
back such that either of the two surfaces, the hook surface 127 and
the loop surface 125, is placed over and then upon the other
surface. The gripping action of hook and loop type fasteners is
well known in the art.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 6, a plan view of a parallel-relationship
two-ended strap according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention is shown. The parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130
possesses similar manufacturing features as previously mentioned.
The parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 comprises two
parallel ends 130a and 130b. Referring to FIG. 7, a side view of
the parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 of FIG. 6 with the
two strap ends 130a and 130b formed into loops is shown; and
referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of the
parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 of FIGS. 6 and 7 is
shown. The parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 comprises two
substantially similar ends 130a and 130b that may be looped back
upon themselves to form two binding loops, as shown. As previously
discussed in reference to FIGS. 3-5, the front and back surfaces of
the parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 comprise hook and
loop fastener components. It can be seen that the design of the
parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 provides a feature of a
different wrapping action of the two ends 130a and 130b than that
previously discussed in reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. Those skilled
in the art will recognize that, in appropriate circumstances, this
feature will be more favorable than the features of the
offset-relationship two-ended strap 124. Referring to FIG. 9, the
parallel-relationship two-ended strap 130 is shown with the end
130a wrapped around an object 132, and the end 130b wrapped around
an object 134.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 10, a plan view of an
opposed-parallel-relationsh- ip four-ended strap in an embodiment
of the present invention is shown. The
opposed-parallel-relationship four-ended strap 140 comprises four
ends 140a-d, in two parallel and opposing sets. The
opposed-parallel-relationship four-ended strap 140 comprises hook
and loop surfaces in the manner already discussed. Referring to
FIG. 11, a side view of the opposed-parallel-relationship
four-ended strap 140 of FIG. 10 with the four strap ends 140a
through 140d formed into loops is shown. Those skilled in the art
will recognize that, in appropriate circumstances, the
opposed-parallel-relationship four-ended strap 140 features, in
terms of flexibility of bundling, may be more favorable than those
of the previous fastening straps.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 12, a plan view of another preferred
embodiment of the present invention, a parallel-relationship
three-ended strap is shown. The parallel-relationship three-ended
strap 144 comprises three parallel ends 144a, 144b, and 144c. The
parallel-relationship three-ended strap 144 possesses similar
manufacturing features as previously mentioned. The
parallel-relationship three-ended strap 144 comprises three
substantially similar ends 144a, 144b, and 144c that may be looped
back upon themselves to form three binding loops. As previously
discussed, the front and back surfaces of the parallel-relationship
three-ended strap 144 comprise hook and loop fastener components.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that, under appropriate
circumstances, the availability of three ends 144a, 144b, and 144c
is a feature that may be more favorable than the features of the
previous straps.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 13, a side view of the
parallel-relationship three-ended strap 144 of FIG. 12 with the
three strap ends 144a, 144b, and 144c formed into loops surrounding
three cylindrical tubular objects 146a, 146b, and 146c respectively
is shown. Just as discussed in regard to the previous embodiments,
a feature of embodiments of the present invention is the ability to
provide for the selective and independent binding and release of
multiple bundles of items from one another. Thus, it can be seen
that the parallel-relationship three-ended strap 144 is such a
fastening strap, i.e., one that permits either a fastened set A
and/or set B to be further fastened to yet a third set C without
alteration of the remaining fastened sets. For example, with a set
A ski poles and a set B skis, one might decide one wants to keep
either the ski poles or the skis bundled and then attach that
remaining bundled set to a third set C such as a car roof rack.
Thus, the parallel- relationship three-ended strap 144 provides the
feature of allowing the fastening of both a set A and a set B, but
then further allows the release of either set A or set B while
leaving the remaining set fastened intact, which set could then in
turn be immediately attachable to a third set C.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 14, a plan view of another preferred
embodiment of the present invention, a Y-configuration three-ended
strap is shown. The Y-configuration three-ended strap 148 comprises
three ends 148a, 148b, and 148c configured into a Y pattern as
shown. The three ends 148a, 148b, and 148c of the Y-configuration
three-ended strap 148 may be looped back upon themselves to form
three binding loops (as in FIG. 15). As previously discussed, the
front and back surfaces of the parallel-relationship three-ended
strap 148 comprise hook and loop fastener components. Those skilled
in the art will recognize that in appropriate circumstances, the
availability of three ends 148a, 148b, and 148c in a Y
configuration is a feature that may be more favorable than the
features of the previous straps.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 15, a side view of the Y-configuration
three-ended strap 148 of FIG. 14 with the three strap ends 148a,
148b, and 148c formed into three different size loops is shown. As
can be seen, the independent and selectable formation of three
fastening loops of adjustable sizing is a feature of this
embodiment of the present invention, the Y-configuration
three-ended strap 148.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 16, a plan view of a highly preferred
embodiment of the present invention, an open-center-configuration
two-ended strap is shown. The open-center-configuration two-ended
strap 150 preferably comprises substantially straight transverse
edge, preferably substantially rectangular, preferably
substantially square, as shown, center portion 154 having a
preferably rectangular, preferably substantially square, center
aperture 152 or opening. The open-center-configuration two-ended
strap 150 also comprises two ends 150a and 150b, as shown (the
entire end 150a is like end 150b). As previously discussed, the
front and back surfaces of the open-center-configuration two-ended
strap 150 comprise hook and loop fastener components. The two ends
150a and 150b are sized in cooperation with the center portion 154,
such that the two ends 150a and 150b may be passed through the
center portion aperture 152 to form loops. Those skilled in the art
will recognize that the feature of the two ends 150a and 150b that
are passable, one or more times, through the aperture 152 of center
portion 154 is a feature that will be more favorable than the
features of the previous straps, in appropriate circumstances. For
example, this embodiment provides a feature of allowing an amount
of flexibility between the two loops formed from the ends 150a and
150b while also permitting cinching and securely binding the
objects fastened with the loops formed by the ends 150a and 150b.
Additionally, depending on the length of the ends 150a and 150b,
they may be looped multiple times through the aperture 152 of
center portion 154, thus providing for additional binding strength
as each successive layer of the hook and loop material will
successively fasten upon itself as each loop is wound.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 19 (on sheet 5), a plan view of a
plurality of open-center-configuration two-ended straps 150 showing
a preferred material-saving economical layout of the
open-center-configuration two-ended straps 150 upon a sheet of
material used in embodiments of the present invention. As can be
seen by those skilled in the art, this layout preserves fastener
material and minimizes manufacturing costs as only a single cut is
needed between adjacent open-center-configuration two-ended straps
150.
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, an alternate embodiment of the
present invention, an alternative open-center-configuration
two-ended strap is shown respectively from the top and from the
side. The alternative open-center-configuration two-ended strap 182
comprises a center buckle 186 to which is coupled to two fastening
strap ends 184 and 188. The two fastening strap ends 184 and 188
are sized in cooperation with the center buckle 186 such that the
two fastening strap ends 184 and 188 may be passed through the
center buckle 186 to form loops. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that the feature of the two fastening strap ends 184 and
188 that are passable, one or more times, through the center buckle
186 is a feature that may be more favorable than the features of
the previous straps, in appropriate circumstances. For example,
this embodiment provides a feature of allowing an amount of
flexibility between the two loops formed from the two fastening
strap ends 184 and 188 while also securely binding the objects
fastened with the loops formed by the two fastening strap ends 184
and 188. The flexibility is due to the length and configuration of
the center buckle 186. Additionally, depending on the length of the
two fastening strap ends 184 and 188, they may be looped multiple
times through the center buckle 186, thus providing for additional
binding strength as each successive layer of the hook and loop
material will successively fasten upon itself as each loop is
wound.
[0064] FIG. 25 shows an alternate embodiment of the present
invention, an alternative two-ended strap comprising a relatively
shorter and narrower anchor strap 200 and a relatively longer wider
main strap 202. In this alternate embodiment aperture 204 is
preferably sized to allow anchor strap 200 to pass through aperture
204 at least once. Anchor strap 200 provides for convenient
anchoring of the strap system to an object without the excessive
bulk or hassle of threading a larger strap through an aperture. In
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 25, preferably anchor strap 200 is
at least 90% narrower than the width of main strap 202, and
preferably anchor strap 200 is at most half the length of main
strap 202. Preferably, anchor strap 200 is bound to one object,
while main strap 202 is bound to several objects. This strap system
provides the "best of both worlds", smaller anchor strap 200 which
allows the strap system to be quickly and conveniently anchored
without excessive threading, and a longer wider main strap 202 to
bundle numerous and/or larger, bulkier objects. Under appropriate
circumstances main strap 202 may also be pulled through aperture
204, even if main strap is wider then aperture 204, by
folding/bending main strap 202 as necessary. Main strap 202 may
also comprise a label 206. Main strap 202 may also be made of
material which is conducive to being written upon, so that the
strap system may labeled by a user, in which case it is preferable
that a portion of the material be a light color, preferably white,
or off-white, so that there will be contrast (providing better
legibility) to the dark ink which is typically used for writing.
Label 206 can be located on one side of strap or the other (or
both) depending on whether user wants label to show or not when the
strap is being used. FIG. 27 shows a strap system with a label 206
on the outside being used to loopably bind two objects together. If
the label 206 were only on the other side of the strap, the label
could remain concealed until the main strap 202 is unbound, which
may be desirable for certain applications, such as for aesthetic
reasons.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 28-30, FIG. 28 shows a perspective view
of a reel 205 of continuous strap material with a plurality of
apertures 204 that can be cut to a length desired by a user, while
FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 show, in plan view, portions of two alternate
preferred embodiments of such continuous strap material. The reel
205 of continuous strap material provides the user with flexibility
by allowing a user to select the optimal length of the straps for
each particular application. In a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, the continuous length of strap material 205
alternates between wide cross section 208 and narrow cross section
209 (corresponding to the widths of the anchor strap 200 and the
main strap 202 that are formed when the material is cut from the
reel 205) at regular intervals, as shown. Preferably, apertures 204
are located at regular intervals within the wide cross section 208
of the material, as shown. Preferably, each alternating wide
portion is longer (preferably at least twice as long) than each
alternating thinner portion. Preferably a user cuts a length of the
continuous strap either somewhere in the middle of one of the
thinner sections or at an end of one of the thinner sections,
thereby creating an anchor strap 200 on at least one end, which can
be used as described above. For example, referring to FIG. 30, a
user could cut the material at location 210a or 210b or 210c, etc.
thereby creating anchor strap 200a or 200b or 200c, etc.
respectively, (preferably for use with aperture 204a or 204b or
204c, also respectively). The prior art, such as shown in FIG. 1
and FIG. 2 only comes in a fixed length, which is unlikely to be
the optimal length for any particular application by a user
(imagine Scotch tape only being available in precut two-inch
strips). The plurality of apertures 204 in the continuous strap 205
of the embodiment of the present invention, allow a user to select
the strap length by cutting the appropriate portion off the reel.
It is pointed out that cutting an excessively long strap of the
prior art (with only one aperture) down to size would result in a
wasted portion of strap (without an aperture), a result avoided by
the present invention. It is noted that considerable manufacturing
cost may be saved using the configuration of FIG. 25 for the reel
in that a relatively infrequent die cut will be able to make the
aperture and the thin section. This arrangement embodies herein the
continuous-strap system wherein such continuous length of material
comprises an aperture adjacent at least one end portion of each
such alternating wider width.
[0066] FIG. 29 also shows how an alternating wide cross section 208
and narrow cross section 209 can be patterned to form a preferred
material-saving economical layout from a sheet of material 212 to
reduce manufacturing costs. This layout preserves fastener material
and minimizes manufacturing costs.
[0067] It is noted that the present invention, in a described
embodiment, provides a simple dispensing mechanism for dispensing
straps of variable length determined by the end-user, having been
preferably provided the material having been preferably pre-cut by
a manufacturer to provide such advantages. The strip is preferably
composed of a hook and loop material or similarly constructed
reversible fastener material with fasteners on each side that are
capable of mating with the other. This material would preferably be
provided in a standard self-fastened coiled manner for storage or
dispenser. The strips may be preferably manufactured using sheet
material with dies that create straps with at least one aperture or
perforated apertures per wide strap segment interconnected by a
more narrow linking segment. A single strap with at least two ends
and two apertures with substantial spacing in between the apertures
may preferably be cut along the length of the strip in between two
apertures to create, preferably, at least two new straps with two
free ends. The advantages of such a strap design have been
previously described.
[0068] The strips may preferably have single or multiple apertures
or perforated apertures per wide segments interconnected by a more
narrow linking segment. Varying the position of the cut will allow
the user to tailor the sizing of the straps to his or her needs
while achieving economical material-saving advantages. Significant
variations of length, shape, design, economy and function may be
achieved by a single easily performed cut of the material by a
standard cutting instrument. This may preferably include pair of
scissors, knife or cutting blade. The straps may have substantially
similar strengths and would preferably not be weakened by
perforations.
[0069] The strips are preferably die cut or rotary cut from sheets
of the reversible material. The straps may be formed in single or
adjacent arrays from a single sheet of strap material. They may
preferably be formed from a nested or interlocking pattern for
economical manufacture. The material may preferably be provided in
a roll. The roll may preferably be part of a dispenser. The
dispenser may preferably have a cutting mechanism.
[0070] In a preferred embodiment the material would be provided in
a coiled roll of a single strap with multiple apertures. The user
could unwind the roll to a desired length and cut the strap between
apertures to form a new strap of a desired length. The strap formed
could have the strap anchoring, bundling and fastening advantages
described above including those given by having two independently
operable arms.
[0071] It is further noted, for example, if the user had a six-foot
strap of a uniform maximal width rolled in a coil with five
apertures equally space at 12 inches apart, the user could choose
to cut the material 18 inches from a first end to create a second
two armed strap that would have one end six inches and the other
end 12 inches. The remaining roll would be a first strap with four
apertures and of a total length of 4.5 feet. The user could then
cut 9 inches from the shortened tip of the first roll to create a
third double-armed strap that had the dimensions of 3 inches and 6
inches. The shortened first strap would now be 3.75 feet in length.
The large first strap might, for example, organize a garden hose
system; the second strap might, for example, organize a laptop
power cord; and the small third strap might, for example, organize
wires in an electrical panel.
[0072] From the foregoing discussion, it is seen that, if a user
wanted to fasten two objects, or sets of objects, together using
the prior art fasteners, it would be necessary that the first set
of objects be bundled first (set A), followed by the second set of
objects (set B). Consequently, a drawback in the prior art is that,
when using a single strap fastener (such as the GET-A-GRIP.TM.
strap), the set A objects cannot be cinched together well, as the
fastened end of the GET-A-GRIP.TM. strap is under the loop of the
GET-A-GRIP.TM. strap and the fingers tugging on the pulling end
interfere with the fastening action of one layer on another. Thus,
a bundled set of objects might not be bound as tightly as desired;
and the bundled set might become loose, slip, become repositioned,
or even become undone. It is seen that the present invention
provides a fastening strap system that permits tightly cinching the
first set of objects to achieve a better total fit around all the
bundled A and B sets of objects without this tendency to become
undone.
[0073] It is further seen that, in the prior art, after the set A
objects have been cinched together, with the set B objects then
bundled to the set A objects, if a user only wanted to release the
set A objects, the user would still be required to first release
the set B objects from the fastening strap. And only then could the
set A objects be released from the fastening strap. Assume, for
example, that set A is a pair of ski poles and set B is a pair of
skis. If a user bundled the ski poles together with a large
fastening strap of the prior art, such as the configuration of the
Get-A-Grip.TM. strap, the poles of set A would be in the center
portion of the spiral wrapped GET-A-GRIP.TM. strap. And the skis of
set B would then be bound next within the outer wraps of the spiral
wrapped GET-A-GRIP.TM. strap. Now assume further that the user
wants to free only the ski poles to loan to a friend. In this case,
the user would first have to release the set B skis on the outer
portion of the spiral wrapped bundle. This would be inconvenient
and time consuming and leaves the second set B of the skis
unbundled such that the skis might fall on the ground thus causing
harm to someone's toes or causing the skis to be damaged by the
impact on a non-snowy surface. Or, for example, the user might
decide that the user wants to keep either the set B skis or the set
A ski poles bundled by themselves and then attach that remaining
bundled set to a third set C such as a car roof rack. It therefore
would be desirable, as provided herein by the embodiments of the
present invention, to have a fastening strap system that can fasten
both a set A and a set B but then allow the release of either set A
or set B while leaving the remaining set fastened intact, which
could then be immediately attachable to a third set C.
[0074] Yet another example: A prior art hook and loop product for
power cords has the plug end of a power cord secured through slits
in the fastening strap, but only if the plug is properly
dimensioned. If the plug is too large, the plug may not fit through
the slits. If the plug is too small, then the plug will not be
secured. Only if the plug is dimensioned correctly may the plug be
secured through the slits of the strap and the remainder of the
strap then used to bundle the remainder of the power cord. If the
cord and plug are separately bundled, the same kinds of problems as
mentioned for the ski example using prior art devices occur. This
kind of problem is solved by the embodiments of this invention by
providing a secure fastening strap that may release either of two
fastened sets, i.e. the plug and the cord bundle, independently at
will.
[0075] As another example, a pen and a pencil may be wrapped with a
strip of ONE-WRAP.TM. material by winding one end of the strip
around a free and easily manipulated pencil and then twirling the
pencil around in consecutive spirals and then repeating the
procedure to secure the other end of the strip around a pen. But
this procedure will not work if the user wanted to secure the
pencil to a desk drawer handle, because the desk would not twirl so
easily. Also, if a handbag were secured to a desk drawer handle,
the weight of the handbag might easily cause the spiraled material
to become unwound as the force pulling the layers of materials
apart is aligned in the same general direction as would normally
occur to separate the fastening material layers, as discussed
elsewhere herein. This invention, as shown and described, provides
a fastening strap system for securing two items or sets of items
together that allows separation of either set immediately with a
minimum of manipulation while also maintaining a relatively strong
fastening grip when fastened.
[0076] Some of the functional deficiencies of the prior art are
that the strap must often be entirely unwound in order to attach
the strap; one cannot, for example, keep one end of the strap
coiled in a compact stored configuration and have only a small
portion of only one end of the strap unwrapped and exposed to
perform the anchoring function. This drawback becomes particularly
important as the length of the strap increases. For example, as the
length of the reversible fastening strap material increases there
is more surface area and weight. The material tends to twist and
turn and stick to itself more easily as there is more surface area
and more chance the material is much more likely to fasten to
itself prematurely and undesirably making it tangled and difficult
to manage. This makes the threading process of the free end of a
hook and loop strap and particularly a relatively long strap much
more difficult, frustrating and time consuming. Also, another clear
disadvantage of the prior art is that when using a relatively long
strap, it will nearly always require two hands. For example, if the
strap length is 36 inches and therefore longer than the span of a
hand between and thumb and two other gripping fingers and one was
going to anchor the strap on an object such as a ski pole and then
bundle skis, one would need to secure the head region of a strap
with one hand P, stretch and straighten out the remaining entire
length of the strap with a second hand and then use hand Q to
thread the tip though the aperture of the head region P meanwhile
trying to make sure the strap material does not twist and turn on
itself to tangle fasten and interfere with this process. The
present invention provides a self-fastening strap made of a
self-fastening material, such as hook and loop material, that can
be anchored with relative ease without having to unwind the entire
strap or unbundle and unwind the entire strap, or with relatively
less problems of tangling and prematurely self-fastening.
[0077] It is also noted that the present invention provides a
self-fastening strap made of a self-fastening material, such as
hook and loop material, that can be released without having to
unwind the entire strap, or unbundle and unwind the entire strap,
or that might be released easily from an anchored position with a
single hand.
[0078] It is further noted that the present invention allows a user
the choice to immediately fasten and selectively release only one
of a multiple number, two or more, separate objects from the hook
and loop fastening strap bundle. It provides for the selective and
independent binding and release of multiple bundles of items from
one another.
[0079] It is also noted that, while one might choose a material
such as the self-fastening Dual Lock.TM. material made by 3M.TM. or
other similar one-sided self-fastening materials, this material is
expensive, it requires a press fit to activate the fastening and it
is less well adapted for apparel objects. [FIG. 21 shows an
embodiment of the present invention using a "hook and hook"
material like the above-mentioned one-sided self-fastening
materials, but made by applicant as a two-sided material, with all
the advantages set out hereinafter.] Furthermore, the goals are the
fastening of two objects together while being able to immediately
unfasten them. And because the 3M.TM. material is only one-sided, a
strap of such material cannot be merely folded back on itself at
both ends to secure and fasten two objects together.
[0080] Also, depending on the density of the gripping appendages
that are on the fastening side of the material, the surface might
not fasten to itself. Thus, it is preferable to have a second side
that has a second surface with different properties than the first
surface, such as a second density of the gripping appendages or a
different type of gripping appendage that allows the selection of a
stronger or weaker fastening. Also, the mentioned 3M.TM. strap
material does not have the soft pile of the hook surface of a hook
and loop material strap. Under appropriate circumstances, it is
preferable to have a strap with at least one self-fastening surface
that has the ability to self engage and fasten a first set, while
also having another surface with properties that might include
immediate engagement on contact with the first surface, soft pile,
or self-engagement with the same or different properties of the
first.
[0081] In particular, a disadvantage of a single-sided
self-fastening strap is that it does not permit a coiled bundling
capability, as a coil of the single-sided self-fastening material
does not attach to itself. Coiled bundling capability as provided
by the present invention is desirable as sequential coiling of
fastening surfaces adds increased fastening strength to subsequent
wraps of double-sided fastening material.
[0082] In another usage example of a preferred double-sided strap,
given a set of medical tubes, it would be desirable to have a
double-sided fastening strap of self-fastening material such that,
in a hospital environment, an IV (intravenous) tube could be
connected to an IV pole, as is standard in hospitals for holding
bags or bottles of IV fluid and their connections. In such an
application of a double-sided strap, the material would preferably
be wound around the IV pole, set A, in a substantially linearly
aligned coil and be stored there in a neat arrangement. Also, when
necessary, the coiled double-sided fastening strap would preferably
be partially unwound and folded around or coiled around additional
IV tubing. And, when necessary, the additional IV tubing would
preferably then be released from the fastening grip of the
double-sided fastening strap of the present invention, or released
from the IV pole, while maintaining the original IV tubing
connected to the IV pole. Furthermore, the low particulate
composition of the double-sided (non hook and loop) strap of the
present invention would benefit clean room and surgical
environments over some high particulate hook and loop
materials.
[0083] Further, many other objects, features, and advantages of
applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art
from the above descriptions and the below claims.
* * * * *