U.S. patent application number 15/274081 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-29 for rail fastener.
The applicant listed for this patent is YKK Corporation of America. Invention is credited to Wolfgang E. Coronel.
Application Number | 20180084871 15/274081 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61632942 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180084871 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Coronel; Wolfgang E. |
March 29, 2018 |
RAIL FASTENER
Abstract
A fastening device includes a base including a top surface; a
first fastening field extending from the top surface of the base
and including a plurality of first fastening elements, each of the
first fastening elements including a fastening feature, the
fastening feature of at least some of the first fastening elements
extending in a first direction; and a second fastening field
extending from the top surface of the base and comprising a
plurality of second fastening elements, each of the second
fastening elements including a fastening feature, the fastening
features of all of the second fastening elements extending in a
second direction that is angled with respect to the first
direction, the second fastening field divided from the first
fastening field by a dividing line.
Inventors: |
Coronel; Wolfgang E.;
(Macon, GA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
YKK Corporation of America |
Marietta |
GA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
61632942 |
Appl. No.: |
15/274081 |
Filed: |
September 23, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A44B 18/0069 20130101;
B60J 7/10 20130101; B60J 7/104 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A44B 18/00 20060101
A44B018/00; B60J 7/10 20060101 B60J007/10 |
Claims
1. A fastening device comprising: a base comprising a top surface;
a first fastening field extending from the top surface of the base
and comprising a plurality of first fastening elements, each of the
first fastening elements comprising a fastening feature, the
fastening feature of at least some of the first fastening elements
extending in a first direction; a second fastening field extending
from the top surface of the base and comprising a plurality of
second fastening elements, each of the second fastening elements
comprising a fastening feature, the fastening features of all of
the second fastening elements extending in a second direction that
is angled with respect to the first direction, the second fastening
field divided from the first fastening field by a dividing line;
and a wall extending from the top surface of the base and defining
a wall height that is greater than a fastener height of each of the
first fastening elements and greater than a fastener height of each
of the second fastening elements, wherein the wall is positioned
between a side end of the fastening device and a one of the first
fastening field and the second fastening field.
2. The fastening device of claim 1, wherein a width of the first
fastening field and a width of the second fastening field are
substantially equal.
3. The fastening device of claim 1, wherein the fastening feature
of each of the first fastening elements and the fastening feature
of each of the second fastening elements are hooks.
4-5. (canceled)
6. The fastening device of claim 1, wherein each of the first
fastening elements extends in a row arranged in a transverse
direction across the first fastening field and each of the second
fastening elements extends in a row arranged in a transverse
direction across the second fastening field, each of the first
fastening elements in a row and each of the second fastening
elements in a row joined by a joining rib defining a rib height
equal to at least half of a fastener height of the first fastening
elements and the second fastening elements.
7. The fastening device of claim 1, wherein the fastening features
of all of the first fastening elements extend in the first
direction.
8. The fastening device of claim 1, wherein the second direction is
opposite from the first direction.
9. A fastening system comprising: a fastening device comprising: a
base comprising a top surface; a first fastening field extending
from the top surface of the base and comprising a plurality of
first fastening elements, each of the first fastening elements
comprising a fastening feature, the fastening feature of at least
some of the first fastening elements extending in a first
direction; a second fastening field extending from the top surface
of the base and comprising a plurality of second fastening
elements, each of the second fastening elements comprising a
fastening feature, the fastening feature of all of the second
fastening elements extending in a second direction that is angled
with respect to the first direction, the second fastening field
divided from the first fastening field by a dividing line; and a
wall extending from the top surface of the base and defining a wall
height that is greater than a fastener height of each of the first
fastening elements and greater than a fastener height of each of
the second fastening elements; and a panel comprising an inner
surface comprising a mating fastener material, the mating fastener
material configured to secure the panel to the first fastening
field and the second fastening field.
10. The fastening system of claim 9, further comprising a fastening
device holder defining a channel sized to receive the fastening
device at one end of the fastening device holder.
11. The fastening system of claim 10, wherein the fastening device
holder is angled with respect to a central portion of the panel
when the panel is pulled taut over the fastening device.
12. (canceled)
13. The fastening system of claim 9, further comprising a plurality
of walls, each wall extending from the top surface of the base and
defining a wall height that is greater than a fastener height of
each of the first fastening elements and greater than a fastener
height of each of the second fastening elements, the plurality of
walls distributed between a first end of the fastening device and a
second end of the fastening device.
14. The fastening system of claim 9, further comprising a pair of
walls, each wall extending from the top surface of the base and
defining a wall height that is greater than a fastener height of
each of the first fastening elements and greater than a fastener
height of each of the second fastening elements, a first wall of
the pair of walls positioned between a first side end of the
fastening device and the first fastening field and a second wall of
the pair of walls positioned between a second side end distal from
the first side end and the second fastening field.
15. The fastening system of claim 14, further comprising a third
wall extending from the top surface of the base and defining a wall
height that is greater than a fastener height of each of the first
fastening elements and greater than a fastener height of each of
the second fastening elements, the third wall positioned between
the first wall and the second wall.
16-20. (canceled)
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
Field of Use
[0001] This disclosure relates to fastening devices for securing
panels. More specifically, this disclosure relates to fastening
devices in which at least some of a plurality of fastening features
extend in the same direction.
Related Art
[0002] In a variety of situations, a panel of fabric or other
material can be used to cover a portion of a vehicle or a surface
of a room or to cover, shield, or partition a portion of any
object. Such a panel can, for example and without limitation, be
used as a tonneau cover to cover a truck bed of a pickup truck or
other vehicle. Using current devices, systems, and methods,
however, pulling the panel or cover tight or taut can result in
premature engagement of the fastening device used to secure the
panel. Such premature engagement of the fastening device by the
cover can cause the fastening device to move relative to the
fastening device holder in which it is installed. Such movement can
cause damage to the fastening device. In addition, the fastening
device can be prone to damage during loading and unloading of
material due to impact loads hitting fastening elements of the
fastening device or during long-term use due to one portion of the
fastening device separating from another portion of the fastening
device or due to deformation of a fastening device that is too
flexible.
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 fastening device comprising: a
base comprising a top surface; a first fastening field extending
from the top surface of the base and comprising a plurality of
first fastening elements, each of the first fastening elements
comprising a fastening feature, the fastening feature of at least
some of the first fastening elements extending in a first
direction; and a second fastening field extending from the top
surface of the base and comprising a plurality of second fastening
elements, each of the second fastening elements comprising a
fastening feature, the fastening features of all of the second
fastening elements extending in a second direction that is angled
with respect to the first direction, the second fastening field
divided from the first fastening field by a dividing line.
[0005] In a further aspect, disclosed is a fastening system
comprising: a fastening device comprising: a base comprising a top
surface; a first fastening field extending from the top surface of
the base and comprising a plurality of first fastening elements,
each of the first fastening elements comprising a fastening
feature, the fastening feature of at least some of the first
fastening elements extending in a first direction; and a second
fastening field extending from the top surface of the base and
comprising a plurality of second fastening elements, each of the
second fastening elements comprising a fastening feature, the
fastening feature of all of the second fastening elements extending
in a second direction that is angled with respect to the first
direction, the second fastening field divided from the first
fastening field by a dividing line; and a panel comprising an inner
surface comprising a mating fastener material, the mating fastener
material configured to secure the panel to both the first fastening
field and the second fastening field.
[0006] In yet another aspect, disclosed is a method of using a
fastening system, the method comprising: securing a fastening
device to a mounting surface, the fastening device comprising: a
first fastening field comprising a plurality of first fastening
elements, each of the first fastening elements comprising a
fastening feature; and a second fastening field comprising a
plurality of second fastening elements, each of the second
fastening elements comprising a fastening feature, the second
fastening field divided from the first fastening field by a
dividing line; contacting the fastening device with a mating
fastener material of a panel, the mating fastener material
configured to secure the panel to both the first fastening field
and the second fastening field; and sliding the mating fastener
material with respect to the fastening device.
[0007] Various implementations described in the present disclosure
may comprise 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 THE DRAWINGS
[0008] 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.
[0009] FIG. 1 is perspective view of a fastening system secured to
a vehicle in accordance with one aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one side of the fastening
system of FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the fastening system of FIG. 1
taken from line 3 of FIG. 2.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of a first
fastening device of the fastening system of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of the first fastening
device of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 5B is a top perspective view of a second fastening
device of the fastening system of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the fastening system of FIG. 1
together with an object contacting the first fastening device taken
in the direction of line 7-7 of FIG. 4.
[0016] FIG. 7A is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4.
[0017] FIG. 7B is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 7C is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 7D is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 7E is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 7F is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 8A is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 taken along line 8A-8A of FIG. 6.
[0023] FIG. 8B is a sectional view of the first fastening device of
FIG. 4 taken along line 8B-8B of FIG. 6.
[0024] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a truncated portion of a
first fastening device of the fastening system of FIG. 1 in
accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a detail perspective view of a portion of the
first fastening device of FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect
of the current disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a detail perspective view of a portion of the
first fastening device of FIG. 4 in accordance with another aspect
of the current disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a fastening system in
accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 13A is a side view of the fastening system of FIG. 1
before a cover of the fastening system is completely installed.
[0029] FIG. 13B is a side view of the fastening system of FIG. 1
after the panel of the fastening system is completely
installed.
[0030] FIG. 14A is a sectional view of the fastening system of FIG.
1 taken from line 14A-14A of FIG. 13A.
[0031] FIG. 14B is a sectional view of the fastening system of FIG.
1 taken from line 14B-14B of FIG. 13B.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] 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.
[0033] 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.
[0034] 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.
[0035] 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 comprises 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," 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.
[0036] 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.
[0037] 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 comprises instances where said
event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
[0038] The word "or" as used herein means any one member of a
particular list and also comprises any combination of members of
that list.
[0039] 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, "rear" describes that end of the vehicle or the
fastening system nearest to the tailgate or trunk or tail of the
vehicle; "front" is that end of the vehicle that is opposite or
distal the rear; "left" is that which is to the left of or facing
left from 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 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.
[0040] In one aspect, a fastening device and associated methods,
systems, devices, and various apparatuses are disclosed herein. The
fastening device can comprise a plurality of fastening elements. A
fastening system comprising the fastening device can comprise a
panel and can further comprise a fastening device holder.
[0041] FIGS. 1-3 disclose a fastening system 100 installed on a
vehicle 50. The fastening system 100 can comprise a fastening
device 200a,b. As shown, the fastening system 100 can comprise a
pair of fastening devices 200a,b. The fastening system 100 can
further comprise a panel 300, which can be, for example and without
limitation, a cover or a pad. The panel 300 shown in FIG. 1 is a
tonneau cover for a bed of the vehicle 50, which is a pickup truck.
The fastening system 100 can further comprise a fastening device
holder 400a,b comprising a first end 405a,b and a second end
406a,b, respectively. The vehicle 50 can comprise a left side wall
53a and a right side wall 53b, each of the left side wall 53a and
the right side wall 53b comprising a cap 58a,b, respectively. In
one aspect, each of the caps 58a,b is respectively received atop
the left side wall 53a and the right side wall 53b. In another
aspect, no cap is required on either of the side walls 53a,b.
[0042] The panel 300 can comprise an outer surface 301, an inner
surface 302, a first side end 303, a second side end 304, a first
lengthwise end 305 (shown in FIG. 13B), a second lengthwise end
306, and a central portion 310. The panel 300 can comprise a mating
fastener material 390a,b. The mating fastener material 390a,b can
be configured to secure the panel 300 to the fastening devices
200a,b. The panel can be made out of, for example and without
limitation, a fabric, a polymer, a leather-type 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.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 2, each of the fastening device 200a,b
(200b shown in FIG. 1) of the fastening system 100 can comprise a
first fastening field 210a,b (210b shown in FIG. 5B) and a second
fastening field 220a,b (220b shown in FIG. 5B). The second
fastening field 220a can be divided from the first fastening field
210a by a dividing line 280. In one aspect, each of the fastening
devices 200a,b can be secured to the fastening device holders
400a,b, respectively, with a fastener 290 proximate to the first
ends 405a,b, respectively of the fastening device holder 400a,b. In
another aspect, the fastening devices 200a,b can be secured to the
fastening device holders 400a,b, respectively, with a plurality of
fasteners 290 positioned proximate the first ends 405a,b,
respectively, the second ends 406a,b, respectively, or between the
first end 405a,b and the second end 406a,b, respectively. In yet
another aspect, the fastening devices 200a,b can be secured to the
fastening device holders 400a,b, respectively without any fasteners
290 or with only a single fastener 290 for each fastening device
200a,b.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 3, the fastening device holder 400a,b can
define a channel 410a,b comprising side slots 413a,b and 414a,b,
respectively. In one aspect, the channels 410a,b and the side slots
413a,b,414a,b of the fastening device holders 400a,b can be sized
to receive the fastening device 200a,b, respectively. In one
aspect, the channel 410a,b and the side slots 413a,b,414a,b can be
sized to receive the fastening device 200a,b at the first end
405a,b or the second end 406a,b of the fastening device holder
400a,b. In another aspect, the channel 410a,b and the side slots
413a,b,414a,b can be sized to receive the fastening device 200a,b
but the fastening device 200a,b can be installed at some point
between the first end 405a,b and the second end 406a,b of the
fastening device holder 400a,b. The channel 410a,b can further
define a mounting surface 411a,b.
[0045] In one aspect, the fastening device holder 400a,b can be
angled with respect to the central portion 310 of the panel 300
(shown in FIG. 1) by an angle 470 when the panel 300 is pulled taut
or else angled with respect to the horizontal orientation by the
angle 470. The angle 470 is thereby measured from the horizontal
direction in the current aspect. In one aspect, for example and
without limitation, the angle 470 can measure about 30 degrees. In
another aspect, the angle 470 can measure less than or greater than
about 30 degrees, including zero degrees, resulting in the
fastening device holder 400a,b being oriented horizontally. In one
aspect, the fastening device holder 400a,b can be oriented as shown
and the central portion 310 of the panel 300 can be oriented in a
horizontal orientation when pulled taut. In one aspect, the
fastening device holder 400a,b can be oriented in an orientation 90
degrees from that shown and the central portion 310 of the panel
300 can be oriented in a vertical orientation when pulled taut. In
another aspect, the central portion 310 of the panel 300 can be
oriented in a neither a horizontal orientation nor a vertical
orientation but can be angled with respect to both the horizontal
orientation and the vertical orientation depending on the type and
purpose of the panel 300. In yet another aspect, the panel 300 can
define a more complex shape that varies in orientation from the
first side end 303 to the second side end 304 or from the first
lengthwise end 305 to the second lengthwise end 306--as may be
desired when the panel 300 functions as a cover to cover a complex
shape that is not flat in every orientation.
[0046] In one aspect, as shown exemplarily in FIG. 4 with respect
to fastening device 200a, each of the fastening devices 200a,b can
comprise a first side end 203a,b and a second side end 204a,b,
respectively. Each of the fastening devices 200a,b can further
comprise a base 230 comprising a top surface 231 and a bottom
surface 232 (shown in FIG. 6). The first fastening field 210a,b can
extend from the top surface 231 of the base 230 and can comprise a
plurality of first fastening elements 211a,b. Each of the first
fastening elements 211a,b can comprise a fastening feature 213a,b,
respectively (213b not shown). The fastening feature 213a,b can be
a hook that is configured to removably fasten to the mating
fastening material 390a,b, respectively (shown in FIG. 1). The
basic shape of the hook can, in various aspects, match that of the
PowerRail.RTM. product produced by YKK (U.S.A.) Inc. of Marietta,
Ga. In one aspect, the fastening feature 213a,b of at least some of
the first fastening elements 211a,b, respectively, can extend or
face in a first direction 255. In another aspect, the fastening
features 213a,b of all of the first fastening elements 211a,b,
respectively, can extend in the first direction 255. In yet another
aspect, the fastening feature 213a,b of at least some of the first
fastening elements 211a,b, respectively, can extend in a direction
that is angled with respect to the first direction 255. For example
and without limitation, the fastening feature 213a,b of at least
some of the first fastening elements 211a,b, respectively, can
extend in a direction that is angled 90 degrees with respect to the
first direction 255.
[0047] The second fastening field 220a,b can extend from the top
surface 231 of the base 230 and can comprise a plurality of second
fastening elements 221a,b. Each of the second fastening elements
221a,b can comprise a fastening feature 223a,b, respectively. The
fastening feature 223a,b can be a hook that is configured to
removably fasten to the mating fastening material 300a,b,
respectively. In one aspect, as shown in FIG. 4, the fastening
feature 223a,b of all of the second fastening elements 221a,b,
respectively, can extend in a second direction 256 that is angled
at an angle that is opposite from the first direction 255. In yet
another aspect, the fastening feature 223a,b of at least some of
the second fastening elements 221a,b, respectively, can extend in a
direction that is angled with respect to the first direction 255
and the second direction 256. For example and without limitation,
the fastening feature 223a,b of at least some of the second
fastening elements 221a,b, respectively, can extend in a direction
that is angled 90 degrees with respect to the second direction 256.
Any one of the disclosed aspects can result in a "bi-directional"
orientation of the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b in which one
portion of the fastening device--the first fastening field
210a,b--comprises fastening features 213a,b extending in one
direction and another portion--the second fastening field
220a,b--extending in a different direction.
[0048] Extending in a particular direction such as the first
direction 255 or the second direction 256 can mean that each of the
fastening features 213a,b,223a,b is aligned with and extends from
the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b, respectively, in such
direction. In one aspect, as shown, the fastening device 200a,b
comprises only the first fastening field 210a,b and the second
fastening field 220a,b, respectively. In another aspect, the
fastening device 200a,b can comprise a third fastening field, a
fourth fastening field, or more than four fastening fields, each
fastening field comprising fastening elements, the fastening
feature of each of the fastening elements of each fastening field
extending in a single direction.
[0049] The fastening device 200a,b can further comprise a wall 240
or a plurality of walls 240, each wall 240 extending from the top
surface 231 of the base 230. In one aspect, a first wall 241 can
extend from the top surface 231 of the base 230 and define a wall
height 245 that is greater than a fastener height 215 of each of
the first fastening elements 211a,b and greater than a fastener
height 225 of each of the second fastening elements 221a,b. In
another aspect, a second wall 242 can extend from the top surface
231 of the base 230 and define a wall height 246 that is greater
than the fastener height 215 of each of the first fastening
elements 211a,b and greater than the fastener height 225 of each of
the second fastening elements 221a,b. In yet another aspect, a
third wall 243 can extend from the top surface 231 of the base 230
and define a wall height 247 that is greater than the fastener
height 215 of each of the first fastening elements 211a,b and
greater than the fastener height 225 of each of the second
fastening elements 221a,b.
[0050] In one aspect, the plurality of walls 240 can be distributed
along a longitudinal direction that is parallel to the dividing
line 280 of the fastening device 200a,b. As shown in FIG. 4, the
first wall 241 can be positioned between the first side end 203a,b
of the fastening device 200a,b and the first fastening field 210a,b
and a second wall 242 can be positioned between the second side end
204a,b distal from the first side end 203a,b and the second
fastening field 220a,b. In yet another aspect, the third wall 243
can be positioned between the first wall 241 and the second wall
242, between the first fastening field 210a,b and the second
fastening field 220a,b and, as shown, optionally aligned with the
dividing line 280.
[0051] The fastening device 200a,b can further comprise a plurality
of guides 260, each of which can be sized to be received within the
side slots 413,414 (shown in FIG. 3) of the channel 410 of the
fastener device holder 400a,b. For example and without limitation,
a first guide 261 can have a guide height 265 (shown in FIG. 6)
that is less than or equal to a height of the side slot 413a,b, and
a second guide 262 can have a guide height 266 that is less than or
equal to a height of the side slot 414a,b. Each of the guides
260--including the first guide 261 and the second guide 262--can be
rounded at one or both ends proximate to the first lengthwise end
205a,b and the second end 206a,b, respectively, of the fastening
device 200a,b, in order to facilitate installation of the fastening
device 200a,b into the fastening device holder 400a,b.
[0052] In one aspect, as shown, the plurality of guides 260 of the
fastening device 200a,b can be distributed in a longitudinal
direction such that a plurality of gaps 268 separate each of the
guides 260 aligned in the longitudinal direction. The gaps 268 can
facilitate the bending of long lengths of the fastening device
200a,b such as during the manufacturing, storing, or shipping of
the fastening device 200a,b. The gaps 268 can also facilitate the
use of the fastening device 200a,b in a fastening device holder
400a,b that is not straight but rather curved. In another aspect,
the plurality of guides 260 can be distributed in a longitudinal
direction without gaps 268 separating each of the guides 260
aligned in the longitudinal direction such that each guide 260
contacts a longitudinally adjacent guide 260.
[0053] The first fastening field 210a,b of the respective fastening
devices 200a,b can define a width 218, and the second fastening
field 220a,b of the fastening device 200a,b can define a width 228.
In one aspect, the width 218 of the base 230 from which the
respective first fastening field 210a,b extends and the width 228
of the base 230 from which the respective second fastening field
220a,b extends are substantially equal although they need not be.
In another aspect, a surface area (not shown) of the base 230 from
which the first fastening field 210a,b extends and a surface area
(not shown) of the base 230 from which the second fastening field
220a,b extends are substantially equal although they need not
be.
[0054] As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, for reasons that will be
explained hereafter, the fastening device 200b can be a mirror
image of the fastening device 200a. As shown, the fastening feature
213a,b of each of the first fastening elements 211a,b of the first
fastening fields 210a,b, respectively, can extend in the first
direction 255, and the fastening feature 223 of each of the second
fastening elements 221a,b of the second fastening field 220a,b can
extend in the second direction 256. In one aspect, the direction of
the fastening features and the proper orientation of the fastening
devices 200a,b will be evident to the user. In another aspect, the
fastening device 200a,b can comprise a symbol or text or be
otherwise shaped or marked to denote a particular use and
orientation such as left or right, top or bottom, or inside or
outside. Such shaping or marking can be incorporated during or
after molding of the fastening device 200a,b.
[0055] As exemplarily shown in FIG. 6 with respect to the fastening
device 200a, the presence of the walls 240--and specifically the
first wall 241, the second wall 242, and the third wall 243--can
protect the first fastening elements 211a,b of the first fastening
field 210a,b and the second fastening elements 221a,b of the second
fastening field 220a,b from impact by objects such as a board 600
that is laid on top of or made to impact the fastening device 200a.
The presence of the walls 240 can also protect portions of the
fastening device 200a,b during manufacture and assembly of the
fastening system 100 by allowing the use of automated equipment
that contacts the walls 240 but not the typically more
load-sensitive fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b. Because the wall
heights 245,246,247 of the walls 241,242,243, respectively, are
higher than the fastener heights 215,225 of the first fastening
elements 211a,b and the second fastening elements 221a,b, the board
600 cannot as easily contact and thereby damage the first fastening
elements 211a,b and the second fastening elements 221a,b.
[0056] FIGS. 7A-7F disclose various aspects of the fastening device
200a comprising various combinations of the first wall 241, the
second wall 242, and the third wall 243. As shown in FIG. 7A, the
fastening device 200a can comprise the first wall 241 positioned
proximate to the first side end 203a and the second wall 242
positioned proximate to the second side end 204a. As shown in FIG.
7B, the fastening device 200a can comprise the third wall 243
positioned between the first fastening field 210a and the second
fastening field 220a and proximate to and aligned with the dividing
line 280, shown as a plane in FIGS. 7A-7F. As shown in FIG. 7C, the
fastening device 200a can comprise the first wall 241 positioned
proximate to the first side end 203a, the second wall 242
positioned proximate to the second side end 204a, and the third
wall 243 positioned between the first fastening field 210a and the
second fastening field 220a--as well as between the first walls 241
and the second walls 242--and proximate to and aligned with the
dividing line 280. As shown in FIG. 7D, the fastening device 200a
can comprise a wider first wall 241 (or a pair of adjacent
instances of the first wall 241) positioned proximate to the first
side end 203a and a wider second wall 242 (or a pair of adjacent
instances of the second wall 242) positioned proximate to the
second side end 204a. As shown in FIG. 7E, the fastening device
200a can comprise a wider third wall 243 (or a pair of adjacent
instances of the third wall 243) positioned between the first
fastening field 210a and the second fastening field 220a and
proximate to and aligned with the dividing line 280. As shown in
FIG. 7F, the fastening device 200a can comprise a wider first wall
241 (or a pair of adjacent instances of the first wall 241)
positioned proximate to the first side end 203a, a wider second
wall 242 (or a pair of adjacent instances of the second wall 242
positioned proximate to the second side end 204a), and a wider
third wall 243 (or a pair of adjacent instances of the third wall
243) positioned between the first fastening field 210a and the
second fastening field 220a--as well as between the first walls 241
and the second walls 242--and proximate to the dividing line
280.
[0057] For the fastening device 200a shown in FIGS. 7D-7F, each of
the adjacent instances (not shown) of the first wall 241, the
second wall 242, and the third wall 243 can be made to alternate in
position in a longitudinal direction such that a first instance of
each of the first wall 241, the second wall 242, and the third wall
243 is offset from a second instance of each of the first wall 241,
the second wall 242, and the third wall 243 just as some of the
guides 262 are offset in a longitudinal direction from at least
some of the second walls 242 in FIG. 4.
[0058] FIGS. 8A and 8B disclose sectional views of the fastening
device 200a in which the geometry of the fastening elements
211a,b,221a,b (221a shown in FIG. 5A, 211b and 221b shown in FIG.
5B) and the fastening features 213a,b,223a,b (223a shown in FIGS.
4, 213b and 223b not shown) thereof is clearly visible. The
fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b can comprise a pair of fastening
features 213a,b,223a,b, each of which can be a hook head, which can
extend in the first direction 255 and the second direction 256,
respectively. As previously stated, extending in a particular
direction such as the first direction 255 or the second direction
256 can mean that each of the fastening features 213a,b,223a,b is
aligned with and extends from the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b,
respectively, in such direction. More specifically, extending in a
particular direction such as the first direction 255 or the second
direction 256 can mean that a portion of each of the fastening
features 213a,b,223a,b extends in a horizontal direction from a
portion of the corresponding fastening element 211a,b,221a,b. Any
shape of the fastening features 213a,b,223a,b that can provide a
"hook" for the mating fastener material 390a,b to fasten can
suffice to secure the mating fastening material 390a,b when the
fastening device 200a,b is brought into contact with the mating
fastening material 390a,b, respectively. In one aspect, each of the
fastening features 213a,b,223a,b when viewed from the side as shown
can extend horizontally from a vertical portion of the fastening
elements 211a,b,221a,b. In another aspect, each of the fastening
features 213a,b,223a,b can extend in a direction that is angled up
or down with respect to the base 230. In one aspect, each of the
fastening features 213a,b,223a,b when viewed from above (such as
shown in FIG. 12) can be aligned with the first direction 255 or
the second direction 256. In another aspect, each of the fastening
features 213a,b,223a,b when viewed from above can be angled with
respect to the first direction 255 or the second direction 256.
[0059] In another aspect, as shown exemplarily in FIG. 9 with
respect to the fastening device 200a, the fastening device 200a can
comprise the first side end 203a and the second side end 204a.
However, the walls 240 can be omitted from the fastening device
200a. In particular, the first wall 241, the second wall 242, and
the third wall 243 can be omitted. The fastening device 200a can
otherwise comprise the features described as being part of the
fastening device 200a shown in FIG. 4.
[0060] As shown in FIGS. 10-11, each of the first fastening
elements 211a,b can extend in a row 1010 arranged in a transverse
direction 257 across the first fastening field 210a,b,
respectively--and similarly, each of the second fastening elements
221a,b can extend in a row (not shown) arranged in a transverse
direction 257 across the second fastening field 220a,b,
respectively. In one aspect, as shown in FIG. 10, each of the first
fastening elements 211a,b in a row 1010--and each of the second
fastening elements 221a,b in a row--can be joined by joining ribs
216,226 (226 not shown), respectively, defining a rib height 219,
which can be less than the fastener height 215 of the first
fastening elements 211a,b and the fastener height 225 of the second
fastening elements 221a,b. Joining each of the first fastening
elements 211a,b to each other in the row 1010 and similarly joining
each of the second fastening elements 221a,b to each other in a row
can result in a more rigid or stiff fastening device 200a,b that is
less likely to bend in the transverse direction 257 such that the
base 230 is not flat when viewed in a transverse cross section.
Thus during, for example and without limitation, disengagement of
the mating fastening material 390a,b from the fastening device
200a,b, the base 230 of the fastening device 200a,b can retain its
flat shape and remain securely in the fastening device holder
400a,b. In addition, the base 230 can be made thinner than would
otherwise be required due the presence of the joining ribs 216
connecting each of the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b.
[0061] In another aspect, as shown in FIG. 11, each of the joining
ribs 216 can be made to extend from each side of each of the first
fastening elements 211a,b but not extend to the first fastening
element 211a,b or the joining rib 216 that is positioned adjacent
to it. Likewise, each of the joining ribs 226 can be made to extend
from each side of each of the second fastening elements 221a,b but
not extend to the second fastening element 221a,b or the joining
rib 226 that is positioned adjacent to it. Further, in the gap
defined between adjacent joining ribs 216,226, the fastener device
200a can comprise a second joining rib 217 defining a rib height
that is less than the rib height 219 of the joining ribs
216,226.
[0062] The fastening device 200a,b can be formed from any one of a
variety of polymer or other materials including, for example and
without limitation, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), NYLON or
similar polyamides, or polypropylene (PP).
[0063] FIG. 12 discloses the fastening system 100 as mounted in a
vertical orientation. As shown, the fastener system 100 can
comprise the fastening device 200 mounted in the fastening device
holder 400. The fastening system 100 can further comprise the panel
300, which can be a gym mat or a wall covering, comprising the
mating fastener material 390. As shown, the fastener device holder
400 can be mounted on a vertical wall surface or any other vertical
surface and can fastenably receive the panel 300.
[0064] FIGS. 13A-13B and 14A-14B disclose a method of using the
fastening system 100. As shown in FIG. 1-3, a method of using a
fastening system 100 can comprise securing each of a pair of the
fastening devices 200a,b to the mounting surface 411a,b of the
respective fastening device holders 400a,b, for example and without
limitation, by inserting the fastening devices 200a,b into the
channels 410a,b, respectively, of the fastener device holders
400a,b. The fastening devices 200a,b can comprise the first
fastening field 210a,b, respectively, comprising the plurality of
first fastening elements 211a,b (shown in FIG. 4), each of which
can comprise the fastening feature 213a,b, respectively (shown in
FIG. 4). The fastening devices 200a,b can further comprise the
second fastening field 220a,b, respectively comprising the
plurality of second fastening elements 221a,b, respectively (shown
in FIG. 4), each of which can comprise the fastening feature
223a,b, respectively (shown in FIG. 4), the second fastening field
220a,b divided from the first fastening field 210a,b by the
dividing line 280.
[0065] As shown exemplarily in FIGS. 13A and 14A with respect to
the fastening device 200a and associated surrounding components,
the method can further comprise contacting the fastening devices
200a,b with the mating fastener material 390a,b of the panel 300.
While the mating fastener material 390a,b can be configured to
secure the panel 300 to both the first fastening field 210a and the
second fastening field 220a, causing the mating fastener material
390a,b of the panel 300 to contact only the second fastener
elements 221a,b of the second fastener field 220a,b, respectively,
will allow sliding of the panel 300 with respect to the fastening
devices 200a,b because the fastening features 223a,b are extending
in the same direction 256 that the panel 300 is being slid. Thus
each of the second fastening elements 221a,b is configured not to
catch on the mating fastening material 390a,b, respectively, and as
shown each of the first fastening elements 211a,b is configured by
the existence of the angle 470 (shown in FIG. 3) not to contact the
mating fastener material 390a,b, respectively. Even if the first
side end 303 of the panel 300 extends slightly downward as shown,
the angle 470 can be set to exceed an angle created by the first
side end 303 relative to the horizontal orientation.
[0066] The method can further comprise sliding the mating fastener
material 390a,b with respect to the fastening device 200a,b,
respectively. The fastening feature 223a,b of all of the second
fastening elements 221a,b, respectively, can extend in a direction
that is the same as the direction 256 of the sliding of the mating
fastener material 390a,b with respect to the fastening device
200a,b, respectively. Contacting the fastening device 200a,b with
the mating fastener material 390a,b, respectively, can comprise
contacting only the second fastening field 220a,b of the fastening
device 200a,b with the mating fastener material 390a,b. As shown in
FIG. 14A, by orientating the second fastening field 220a,b
proximate to a portion of the fastening device holder 400a,b that
is closest to the panel 300 a user can avoid premature engagement
of the mating fastener material 390a,b with the fastening devices
200a,b, respectively. The method can further comprise contacting
both the first fastening field 210a,b of the fastening device
200a,b and the second fastening field 220a,b of the fastening
device 200a,b with the mating fastener material 390a,b,
respectively. Contacting both the first fastening field 210a,b of
the fastening device 200a,b and the second fastening field 220a,b
of the fastening device 200a,b with the mating fastener material
390a,b, respectively, can be made to occur after sliding the mating
fastener material 390a,b with respect to the fastening device
200a,b by pulling the panel 300 taut as shown in FIGS. 13B and
14B.
[0067] When using the fastening system 100 to secure a tonneau
cover or any panel 300 that experiences shear loads between the
panel 300 and the fastening devices 200a,b, the strength of
engagement can be important. The disclosed fastening device 200a,b
has been shown, even after 5,000 cycles, to withstand cross-shear
loads greater than brand-new products that are currently available
from others.
[0068] 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 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 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 an vertical pad within an elevator.
[0069] Various methods for manufacturing the fastening device 200
(including either of the fastening devices 200a,b) include those
shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,759 to Fujisawa, et al., which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In the processes
disclosed therein, the fastening device 200a,b can be quickly
cooled after molding the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b but
before removing the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b from the dies
so as to avoid deformation of the fastening elements 211a,b,221a,b
while the material used to form the fastening device 200a,b is
still warm.
[0070] 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 comprise 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.
[0071] 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 comprise 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.
* * * * *