U.S. patent application number 16/067818 was filed with the patent office on 2019-01-10 for self adhering connection surfaces, straps, snaps and bands.
The applicant listed for this patent is Thomas M. ADAMS, James D. BENNER. Invention is credited to Thomas M. ADAMS, James D. BENNER.
Application Number | 20190008240 16/067818 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56093083 |
Filed Date | 2019-01-10 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190008240 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ADAMS; Thomas M. ; et
al. |
January 10, 2019 |
Self Adhering Connection Surfaces, Straps, Snaps and Bands
Abstract
A system of attachment surface structures that find their best
use in the form of repeatedly removable straps and bands for
securing one object to another. The surfaces are preferably
constructed of narrow sheets of flexible polymer plastic materials
having generally high tensile strength. A first embodiment includes
shaped parallel ridges on one surface that interlock with mating
parallel ridges on an opposing surface. These parallel ridges may
be double sided (interlocking on both sides of each shaped ridge
with the next shaped ridge on either side) or single sided
(interlocking with a single ridge oriented 180 degrees from the
first). Further embodiments include an array of shaped posts of
various regular geometric shapes that interlock with an opposing
array of similar or distinct posts.
Inventors: |
ADAMS; Thomas M.; (San
Antonio, TX) ; BENNER; James D.; (San Antonio,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ADAMS; Thomas M.
BENNER; James D. |
San Antonio
San Antonio |
TX
TX |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56093083 |
Appl. No.: |
16/067818 |
Filed: |
December 1, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
December 1, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2016/064479 |
371 Date: |
July 2, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14956297 |
Dec 1, 2015 |
9655413 |
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16067818 |
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14217057 |
Mar 17, 2014 |
9198483 |
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14956297 |
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61867548 |
Aug 19, 2013 |
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61800427 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A44B 18/0007 20130101;
F16B 5/07 20130101; Y10T 24/2792 20150115; Y10T 24/27 20150115;
A44B 18/0053 20130101; A44B 18/0019 20130101; A44B 18/0061
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A44B 18/00 20060101
A44B018/00; F16B 5/07 20060101 F16B005/07 |
Claims
1. Interlocking attachment surfaces, releasably connectable one to
another in a face to face orientation, the attachment surfaces
comprising: a first attachment surface comprising a first substrate
and a plurality of parallel double-sided post ridges spaced one
from the next at a first gap distance, each double-sided post ridge
having a height, and comprising parallel first and second ridge
side walls supporting a ridge cap having a generally isosceles
trapezoid shaped cross-section pointing away from the first
substrate, the ridge cap having a base width and a top width; and a
second attachment surface comprising a second substrate and a
plurality of parallel triplet ridge groups spaced one from the next
group at a second gap distance generally equal to the base width of
the ridge caps of the first attachment surface, each triplet ridge
group comprising parallel first and second outward oriented prong
ridges, and a single blocking ridge positioned between and parallel
to the prong ridges, each of the prong ridges having a common
height generally equal to the height of the double-sided post
ridges on the first attachment surface, and each blocking ridge
having a height equal to or less than the prong ridges; wherein
when the first and second attachment surfaces are connected
together, the ridge cap of each double-sided ridge post is inserted
into the second gap between two triplet ridge groups and is
prevented from being inserted between the prong ridges of an
individual triplet ridge group by the blocking ridge.
2. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 1 wherein the
substrates of the first and second attachment surfaces comprise
curved substrates.
3. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 1 wherein the
first and second outward oriented prong ridges each comprise
rounded tops with outward oriented pointed edges, a distance
between the outward oriented pointed edges of each triplet ridge
group being generally equal to the first gap distance of the first
attachment surface.
4. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 1 wherein the
first and second outward oriented prong ridges each comprise
flexible material that allows the prong ridges to bend inward when
a ridge cap of a double-sided ridge post is inserted into the
second gap between two triplet ridge groups.
5. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 2 wherein the
substrate of the first attachment surface comprises a convex curve
on a double-sided post ridge side of the substrate and the
substrate of the second attachment surface comprises a concave
curve on a triplet ridge group side of the substrate.
6. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 1 wherein the
plurality of double-sided post ridges comprises three double-sided
post ridges and the plurality of triplet ridge groups comprises
four triplet ridge groups.
7. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 1 wherein the
plurality of double-sided post ridges comprises five double-sided
post ridges and the plurality of triplet ridge groups comprises
four triplet ridge groups.
8. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 1 wherein the
substrates of the first and second attachment surfaces further
define at least one aperture through each substrate, the at least
one aperture on each substrate positioned to receive and retain one
of two flexible straps, wherein when the first and second
attachment surfaces are connected together, the two flexible straps
are connected together.
9. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 8 wherein at least
one substrate defines two adjacent apertures to receive and
adjustably retain one of two flexible straps.
10. The interlocking attachment surfaces of claim 5 wherein the
first and second attachment surfaces adjustably secure a hat band
together.
11. Interlocking attachment surfaces, releasably connectable one to
another in a face to face orientation, the attachment surfaces
comprising: a first attachment surface comprising a first substrate
and a plurality of parallel double-sided post ridges spaced one
from the next at a first gap distance, each double-sided post ridge
having a height, and comprising parallel first and second ridge
side walls supporting a ridge cap having a generally isosceles
trapezoid shaped cross-section pointing away from the first
substrate, the ridge cap having a base width and a top width; and a
second attachment surface comprising a second substrate and a
plurality of parallel triplet ridge groups spaced one from the next
group at a second gap distance generally equal to the base width of
the ridge caps of the first attachment surface, each triplet ridge
group comprising parallel first and second outward oriented prong
ridges and a single blocking ridge positioned between and parallel
to the prong ridges, the first and second outward oriented prong
ridges each comprising rounded tops with outward oriented pointed
edges, a distance between the outward oriented pointed edges of
each triplet ridge group being generally equal to the first gap
distance of the first attachment surface, each of the prong ridges
having a common height generally equal to the height of the
double-sided post ridges on the first attachment surface, and each
blocking ridge having a height equal to or less than the prong
ridges; wherein when the first and second attachment surfaces are
connected together, the ridge cap of each double-sided ridge post
is inserted into the second gap between two triplet ridge groups
and is prevented from being inserted between the prong ridges of an
individual triplet ridge group by the blocking ridge.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates generally to attachment
surfaces, straps and bands. The present invention relates more
specifically to an attachment surface structured to allow identical
sections of the surface to removably attach together.
2. Description of the Related Art
[0002] Efforts have been made in the past to provide surfaces (most
often in the form of straps or bands) that removably and repeatedly
adhere to each other for the purpose of securing one object to
another. One example of such types of surfaces is a hook surface
operable in conjunction with a loop surface, developed and marked
under the brand name Velcro .degree.. Hook and loop surfaces suffer
from a number of drawbacks. Both surfaces tend to collect fibrous
dust, strings, and other material that fouls the surfaces and
degrades their ability to adhere to one another. A further
disadvantage of hook and loop surfaces is the requirement to
manufacture and sell two different types of surfaces rather than a
single type of surface that can adhere to another section of the
same type of surface.
[0003] It would be desirable to have attachment surfaces that
overcame the problems associated with the more common hook and loop
combination surfaces. It would be desirable if a single type of
surface could be manufactured and two sections of the single type
of surface would adhere to each other. It would be desirable if the
surfaces were not prone to become fouled with fibers, dust,
threads, and other materials that might degrade their function.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In fulfillment of the above objectives the present invention
provides a number of attachment surface structures that find their
best use in the form of repeatedly removable straps and bands for
securing one object to another. The surfaces are preferably
constructed of narrow sheets of flexible polymer plastic materials
having generally high tensile strength (bendable but not
stretchable). A first set of embodiment includes shaped parallel
ridges on one face of strap or band that interlock with mating
parallel ridges on an opposing strap or band. These parallel ridges
may be double sided (interlocking on both sides of each shaped
ridge with the next shaped ridge on either side) or single sided
(interlocking with a single ridge oriented 180 degrees from the
first). A second set of embodiments includes an array of "umbrella"
shaped posts that interlock with an opposing array of identical
posts on a second section of strap. The second set of embodiments
may be constructed using a variety of regular geometric shapes
(square, triangle, pentagon, and hexagon, for example) that permit
adherence between the surfaces in other than laterally aligned
orientations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a double sided
embodiment of the attachment surfaces system of the present
invention, viewed along Section Line A-A' in FIG. 5.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a single sided
embodiment of the attachment surfaces system of the present
invention, viewed along Section Line B-B' in FIG. 4.
[0007] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of two opposing straps
implementing the parallel ridge embodiment of the attachment
surfaces system of the present invention, the straps shown
separated before attachment.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of two opposing straps
implementing the parallel ridge embodiment of the attachment
surfaces system of the present invention, the straps shown overlaid
and attached one to the other.
[0009] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of one strap implementing the post
array (square) embodiment of the attachment surfaces system of the
present invention, a second opposing strap shown in broken line
form to show the multiple orientations possible with the
embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of one strap implementing the post
array (triangular) embodiment of the attachment surfaces system of
the present invention, a second opposing strap shown in broken line
form to show the multiple orientations possible with the
embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 7A is an isometric view of a further embodiment of the
present invention showing a connector top with attachment slots and
alignment bar.
[0012] FIGS. 7B-7D are three orthographic views of the connector
top shown in FIG. 7A.
[0013] FIG. 8A is an isometric view of a further embodiment of the
present invention showing a connector bottom with attachment slots
and alignment bar.
[0014] FIGS. 8B-8D are three orthographic views of the connector
bottom shown in FIG. 8A.
[0015] FIG. 9A is an isometric view of a further sew-on embodiment
of the present invention showing a connector top.
[0016] FIGS. 9B-9D are three orthographic views of the connector
top shown in FIG. 9A.
[0017] FIG. 10A is an isometric view of a further sew-on embodiment
of the present invention showing a connector bottom.
[0018] FIGS. 10B-10D are three orthographic views of the connector
bottom shown in FIG. 10A.
[0019] FIG. 11A is an isometric view of a further triangular snap
connector embodiment of the present invention showing the inner
connector half.
[0020] FIGS. 11B-11D are three orthographic views of the triangular
snap connector inner connector half shown in FIG. 11A.
[0021] FIG. 12A is an isometric view of a further triangular snap
connector embodiment of the present invention showing the outer
connector half.
[0022] FIGS. 12B-12D are three orthographic views of the triangular
snap connector outer connector half shown in FIG. 12A.
[0023] FIG. 13 is a side-edge view showing the manner of attachment
between the top and bottom components shown in FIGS. 9A & 10A
(for example).
[0024] FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view of a further embodiment
of the present invention showing a connector bottom component
capable of being manufactured using an extrusion process, viewed
along Section Line C-C' in FIG. 14C.
[0025] FIG. 14B is a detailed cross-sectional view of the connector
bottom component shown in FIG. 14A (Detail A) disclosing the
individual connector ridge structure.
[0026] FIG. 14C is a top plan view of a section of the extrusion
manufactured according to the structures of the connector bottom
component shown in FIG. 14A.
[0027] FIG. 15A is an end view of a portion of the connector bottom
component of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.
14A, cut from an extrusion, with holes positioned for attachment to
a surface.
[0028] FIG. 15B is a top plan view of the portion of the connector
bottom component shown in FIG. 15A.
[0029] FIG. 15C is a perspective view of the portion of the
connector bottom component shown in FIG. 15A.
[0030] FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of the mateable section
of the further embodiment of the present invention showing a
connector top component capable of being manufactured using an
extrusion process, viewed along Section Line D-D' in FIG. 16C.
[0031] FIG. 16B is a detailed cross-sectional view of the connector
top component shown in FIG. 16A (Detail B) disclosing the
individual connector ridge structure.
[0032] FIG. 16C is a top plan view of a section of the extrusion
manufactured according to the structures of the connector top
component shown in FIG. 16A.
[0033] FIG. 17A is an end view of a portion of the connector top
component of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.
16A, cut from an extrusion, with holes positioned for attachment to
a surface.
[0034] FIG. 17B is a top plan view of the portion of the connector
top component shown in FIG. 17A.
[0035] FIG. 17C is a perspective view of the portion of the
connector top component shown in FIG. 17A.
[0036] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the connector top and
bottom components shown in FIGS. 15C & 17C, showing the manner
of attachment between the top and bottom components.
[0037] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the inside face of the
bottom clip component of a further alternate embodiment of the
attachment surfaces system of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the bottom clip component
shown in FIG. 19.
[0039] FIG. 21 is an isometric view of the top clip component of
the further alternate preferred embodiment of the present
invention, operable in connection with the bottom clip component
shown in FIGS. 19 & 20.
[0040] FIG. 22 is an isometric view of the obverse face of the top
clip component shown in FIG. 21.
[0041] FIG. 23 is an assembly isometric view of the bottom clip and
top clip components of the alternate preferred embodiment of the
present invention, attached together.
[0042] FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the connected top clip and
bottom clip components of the alternate preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0043] FIG. 25 is a detailed top plan view of the connected top
clip and bottom clip components shown in FIG. 24, disclosing the
manner in which the interacting ridges and channels are removably
secured together.
[0044] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a cap implementing the top
and bottom clips of the alternate preferred embodiment of the
present invention, as shown in FIGS. 19-25.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0045] Reference is made first to FIG. 1 which is a detailed
cross-sectional view of a double sided embodiment of the attachment
surfaces system of the present invention. The cross section shown
in FIG. 1 represents the structure of both a double sided ridge
based embodiment and a double (or multiple) sided post embodiment.
The structure could, for example reflect a cross section of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 5 (square post array) as viewed along
Section Line A-A' therein, as well as a double sided parallel ridge
embodiment. In either case the flexible material from which the
generally flat straps or bands 12 & 14 are constructed to allow
the ridges (or posts) 16 from one surface to press into and
interlock with the same ridges (or posts) present on an opposing
strap or band. This interlock is achieved between what are
essentially the same structures positioned in opposition to each
other. In FIG. 1 these structures represent arms 18 & 20
extending off of ridge (or post) 16 that interlock with
corresponding arms positioned on the opposing strip. This interlock
maintains adherence between the surfaces, especially in the face of
longitudinal force. The surfaces may separate relatively easily
with a transverse rolling force (see FIG. 4) when the user wants to
separate the surfaces.
[0046] FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a single sided
embodiment of the attachment surfaces system of the present
invention, essentially eliminating one interlocking side of each
parallel ridge. In FIG. 2, flat straps or bands 22 & 24 are
constructed to allow the ridges (or posts) 26 from one surface to
press into and interlock with the same ridges (or posts) present on
an opposing strap or band. In this embodiment, a single curled arm
28 extends from ridge (or post) 26 to interlock with a
corresponding curled arm from the opposing strap or band. The
embodiment shown in FIG. 2 retains the strength of adherence by
increasing the degree to which the ridges interlock. While this
maintains the hold between the surfaces in one direction it does
reduce the hold in the opposing direction. This characteristic may
be beneficial where the desire is to secure a strap or band pulled
in one direction from being released in the opposite direction.
This would be helpful where, for example, a strap is used to
tighten or close one component over and against another, such as in
a shoe or a tie down, where an opposing force is oriented in the
direction that the surface to surface adherence is strongest.
[0047] The cross section view of FIG. 2 best represents the
parallel ridge structure shown in FIGS. 3 & 4, as viewed along
Section Line B-B' in FIG. 4. Again, orientation of the straps 22
& 24 is such that the force that tends to longitudinally pull
the straps apart is most strongly resisted by the interlocking
structure. The flexibility of the interlocking "arms" 28 (seen in
cross section) on each ridge 26 allows for the structures to coil
together as shown in FIG. 2. Pulling the straps 22 & 24 apart
(in a direction orthogonal to the surfaces) allows these
interlocking structures to uncoil and release. Once again, one of
the most important features of the present invention is the
identical structure of the two opposing surfaces 22 & 24.
[0048] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of two opposing straps 30 & 32
implementing the parallel ridge 34 embodiment of the attachment
surfaces system of the present invention, the straps 30 & 32
shown separated before attachment. The lower strap 32 (oriented
with the rounded end to the left) shows the parallel ridges 36 on
its upper face. The upper strap 30 (oriented with the rounded end
to the right) shows the hidden parallel ridges 34 in broken line
form for purposes of viewing how the ridges 34 & 36 align and
interlock. Reference is again made to FIG. 2 for the best
representation of this interlocking action. The arrows in FIG. 3
show the manner in which the straps 30 & 32 may be pressed
together to achieve the interlocking action.
[0049] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the two opposing straps 30
& 32 implementing the parallel ridge embodiment shown in FIG.
3; the straps 30 & 32 shown overlaid and attached one to the
other. The curved arrow in FIG. 4 shows the manner in which the top
strap 30 may be pulled up and back so as to release the
interlocking structures and separate the straps. Adjustment of the
longitudinal tightness of the straps may be made by pulling one
strap further along the other, incrementally moving to the next
ridges on the second strap for each of the parallel opposing ridges
on the first strap. In this manner, the strength of the
longitudinal force (the tightness) may be incrementally increased
or decreased.
[0050] Reference is next made to FIGS. 5 & 6 for a description
of an alternate post array embodiment of the present invention.
Whereas the parallel ridge embodiment lends itself to strength of
attachment when one strap is oriented parallel to the other
(directly overlaying), the post array embodiment allows for
non-aligned orientation of the straps.
[0051] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of one strap 40 implementing the
post array 44 (square) embodiment of the attachment surfaces system
of the present invention, a second opposing strap 42 shown in
broken line form to show the multiple orientations possible with
the embodiment. With each "umbrella" shaped post 44 (seen from the
top in this view) having four interlocking structures (oriented
outward 90 degrees to each other) a similar surface may interlock
into an opposing space 46 in either a longitudinal or a transverse
orientation (as shown in broken line form). Although a strap
implementation of this embodiment is shown in FIG. 5, the post
array embodiment lends itself to implementation with larger patches
of attachment surfaces that may serve to secure more than one
strap, possibly oriented in two directions.
[0052] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of one strap 50 implementing the
post array 54 (triangular) embodiment of the attachment surfaces
system of the present invention, a second opposing strap 52 shown
in broken line form to show the multiple orientations possible with
this embodiment. With a triangular post structure 54 the attachment
orientation may be in 60 degree rotations as shown with respect to
an opposing space 56. Here again, although a strap implementation
of this embodiment is shown in FIG. 6, the post array embodiment
lends itself to implementation with larger patches of attachment
surfaces that may serve to secure more than one strap, possibly
oriented in two or more different directions. A single larger
circular patch of material could, for example, receive and secure
three separate straps coming together from three different
directions (generally at 60 degrees of rotation from each
other).
[0053] Implementation of the post array embodiment of the present
invention may be made also with other regular geometric structures,
most notably with hexagonal post configurations. Increasing the
number of sides does however decrease the length of each
interlocking grip thereby diminishing somewhat the strength of the
hold. Nonetheless there are likely applications where increased
options with regard to orientation are preferred over the strength
of the hold.
[0054] FIGS. 7A-7D are an isometric view and three orthographic
views of a further embodiment of the present invention showing a
connector top 70 with attachment slots 72 and alignment bar 74.
FIGS. 8A-8D are an isometric view and three orthographic views of a
corresponding connector bottom 80 mateable to the connector top 70
shown in FIGS. 7A-7D. In this embodiment, attachment slots 72 &
82 are shown in each component 70 & 80 for attaching the
components to the materials to be connected (such as straps,
panels, or the like). In this embodiment, parallel ridges 76 are
positioned on connector top 70 and comprise paired ridges 76 with
opposing, inwardly directed, pointed edges as shown in FIG. 7B.
These paired ridges 76 interlock with ridges 86 on opposing
connector bottom 80. Ridges 86 comprise single walled ridges with
caps having opposing pointed edges that engage with the inwardly
directed pointed edges of paired ridges 76. Additionally, alignment
bars 74 & 84 are disclosed on components 70 & 80 to
facilitate the aligned mating of the connector component ridges 76
& 86.
[0055] FIGS. 9A-9D are an isometric view and three orthographic
views of a further embodiment of the present invention showing a
connector top 90 designed to be sewn onto a substrate to be
connected. FIGS. 10A-10D are an isometric view and three
orthographic views of a corresponding connector bottom 100 mateable
to the connector top 90 shown in FIGS. 9A-9D. In this embodiment,
each component 90 & 100 is sewn onto the materials to be
connected (such as straps, panels, or the like). Ridges 96 shown in
FIG. 9B on connector top 90 are essentially the same as those shown
in FIGS. 7A-7D. Likewise, ridges 106 shown on connector bottom 100
are essentially the same as those shown on connector bottom 80 in
FIGS. 8A-8D.
[0056] FIGS. 11A-11D are an isometric view and three orthographic
views of a further triangular snap connector embodiment showing
strap 110 with the inner connector half 116. FIGS. 12A-12D are an
isometric and three orthographic views of a corresponding strap 120
with outer connector half 126 mateable to the inner connector half
116 shown in FIGS. 11A-11D. With the triangular version shown, the
inner and outer halves 116 & 126 may be aligned at 0.degree.,
60.degree., or 300.degree. (-60.degree. with respect to each other
and still form a secure attachment. This triangular structure may
be extended to six sided or eight sided connector structures that
will mate at several regular angles.
[0057] FIG. 13 is a side-edge view showing the manner of attachment
between the top 130 and bottom 132 components shown in FIGS. 9A
& 10A (for example). A similar manner of attachment is
applicable to the top and bottom components shown in FIGS. 7A &
8A, although the additional attachment slots and alignment bars
therein would be visible. Ridges 134 in top component 130 provide
the opposing pair ridges with inwardly directed pointed edges that
surround and engage with post ridges 136 on bottom component 132
that include outwardly directed pointed edges.
[0058] Reference is next made to FIGS. 14A-14C, FIGS. 15A-15C,
FIGS. 16A-16C, and FIGS. 17A-17C for a description of a further
alternate embodiment of the present invention capable of being
manufactured using an extrusion process. FIG. 14A is a
cross-sectional view of an extrusion of plastic material configured
with five rows of post-type ridges, viewed along Section Line C-C'
in FIG. 14C. Connector bottom component 140 comprises a flat
substrate 142, preferably on the order of one inch in width,
although larger and smaller sizes are envisioned and possible, that
supports (in this example) five post-type ridges 144a-144e. A
detailed view (Detail A from FIG. 14A) of one of these post-type
ridges 144 is shown in FIG. 14B. Positioned on substrate 142 is
post section 148 (essentially a raised ridge that appears as a post
in this cross-sectional view) that includes cap 145 having a pair
of outwardly directed pointed edges 146. Edges 146 comprise rounded
pointed edges to facilitate the latching and unlatching of the
ridge from the opposing component described below.
[0059] FIG. 14C is a top plan view of a section of extruded bottom
component 140 showing each of the five (in this example) ridges
144a-144e. Those skilled in the art will recognize how the
described structure lends itself to manufacture by extrusion
techniques.
[0060] FIGS. 15A-15C represent a section of the extrusion shown in
FIGS. 14A-14C cut and modified to be used as a connector component.
Bottom connector component 150 is shown to be structured on a
section of substrate 152 with a number of attachment apertures 154
drilled or molded therein. Parallel post-type ridge sections
156a-156e are shown in a top plan view in FIG. 15B. FIG. 15C
provides a perspective view showing both the arrangement of
post-type ridge sections 156a-156e on substrate 152, as well as the
placement of the plurality of apertures 154 drilled or molded into
section of connector 150.
[0061] FIG. 16A is a cross-sectional view of an extrusion of
plastic material configured with four rows of paired opposing
ridges, viewed along Section Line D-D' in FIG. 16C. Connector top
component 160 comprises a flat substrate 162, preferably on the
order of one inch in width, although larger and smaller sizes are
envisioned and possible, that supports (in this example) four
paired ridges 164a-164d. A detailed view (Detail B from FIG. 16A)
of one of these pairs of opposing ridges 164 is shown in FIG. 16B.
Positioned on substrate 162 are first and second opposing ridge
walls 165 & 167. A blocking turret 166 is positioned between
the first and second opposing ridge walls 165 & 167 to prevent
that paired ridge row from impinging itself onto the ridge rails of
the opposing part. In this manner the pointed edges of the
respective ridges will always slide properly into the opposing part
so that the pointed edges of the post ridge grasp the rail ridges
of the opposing part. Angled edges 161 & 163 are provided to
facilitate the fingertip attachment and release actions joining and
separating the top and bottom components (see FIG. 18).
[0062] FIG. 16C is a top plan view of a section of extruded top
component 160 showing each of the four (in this example) paired
ridges 164a-164d. Those skilled in the art will recognize how the
described structure lends itself to manufacture by extrusion
techniques.
[0063] FIGS. 17A-17C represent a section of the extrusion shown in
FIGS. 16A-16C cut and modified to be used as a connector component.
Top connector component 170 is shown to be structured on a section
of substrate 172 with a number of attachment apertures 174 drilled
or molded therein. Parallel opposing pair ridge sections 176a-176d
are shown in a top plan view in FIG. 17B. FIG. 17C provides a
perspective view showing both the arrangement of opposing pair
ridge sections 176a-176d on substrate 172, as well as the placement
of the plurality of apertures 174 drilled or molded into section of
connector 170.
[0064] Reference is next made to FIG. 18 for a perspective view of
the connector bottom and top components 150 & 170 shown in
FIGS. 15C & 17C, showing the manner of attachment between these
components. In use, each of the components 150 & 170 would be
secured to a strap or belt using the above described holes in each
component section. In the view of FIG. 18, the angled end edges of
component 170 are shown to facilitate the releasing action whereby
the user may grip the angled edge with a fingertip to begin the
motion of pulling the top component up and away from the bottom
component.
ALTERNATE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0065] Reference is now made to FIGS. 19-26 for a description of a
further alternate preferred embodiment of the attachment surfaces
system of the present invention. In this alternate embodiment, a
number of double-sided post ridges on a first clip component
interact with a number of triplet ridge groups on a second clip
component to appropriately secure two lengths of strap or other
elements together. A number of applications are anticipated that
utilize straps or bands, either as integral components on an object
of clothing or the like, or as the ends of a single strap or band
that is used to bind or bundle two or more objects together. The
alternate preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 19-26 provides for
basic yet versatile clip components that incorporate a modified
cross-sectional configuration for the interlocking ridges and slots
utilized to attach one strap or band to another.
[0066] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the front face of bottom
clip 202 which is generally constructed from bottom clip substrate
204 preferably made of semi-rigid plastic or elastomeric materials,
including those with high rubber content. Alternately, the
substrate of the clips in this further preferred embodiment may
comprise metal materials having similar rigidity/flexibility
characteristics. The construction materials must flex slightly at
both the gross level (the overall clip) and at the interlocking
feature level. Materials with greater rigidity (such as some metals
or alloys) may be used where the clips are slid together rather
than press fit together.
[0067] Bottom clip substrate 204 is molded or formed with strap
apertures 206a-206c as shown. Each strap aperture 206a-206c is
constructed with two opposing toothed edges 208. As described in
detail below, these strap apertures provide appropriate placement,
positioning, and securing of straps on the clips, utilizing the
toothed edges to supply the necessary friction to variably fix the
clips on the straps.
[0068] The operable portion of bottom clip 202 is made up of
double-sided post ridges 210a-210c. Positioned between these post
ridges are triplet slots 212ab & 212bc. In a preferred
embodiment of the alternate clip structure shown in FIG. 19, bottom
clip substrate 204 is curved to follow the general line of the
straps in use around a bundle or across a curved surface (see FIG.
26, for example). The curve to bottom clip 202 matches the curve of
top clip (described below) and facilitates not only their
attachment together, but also their appropriate separation when
required.
[0069] FIG. 20 shows in an isometric view the same components of
bottom clip 202 generally disclosed in FIG. 19 with a clear view of
double-sided post ridges 210a-210c. Also seen in clearer detail in
the view of FIG. 20 are triplet slots 212ab & 212bc. Bottom
clip 202 is preferably curved in a manner that presents a convex
face towards the matching top clip and a concave face to the curved
object or objects that are being strapped or banded.
[0070] Reference is next made to FIGS. 21 & 22 for a detailed
description of top clip 214 structured to be operable in
conjunction with bottom clip 202 shown in FIGS. 19 & 20. Top
clip 214 is constructed of top clip substrate 216 generally made of
the same material as bottom clip 202 described above. Corresponding
strap apertures 218a-218c are also provided for top clip 214 and
provide the same function as the strap apertures for the bottom
clip. In place of double-sided post ridges, top clip 214 is
constructed with triplet ridge groups 220a-220d. The manner in
which these triplet ridge groups operate to engage the double-sided
post ridges of the bottom clip is described in more detail below.
Top clip 214 additional incorporates spacer ridge 222 which
facilitates the placement and spacing of the two clip components
together and further facilitates the separation of the components
by providing a finger-hold to the user next to the edge of top clip
214.
[0071] FIG. 22 is the obverse side of top clip 214 shown in FIG.
21. In this view, triplet ridge groups 220a-220d are shown in clear
detail. Positioned between the triplet ridge groups are post slots
224ab, 224bc, and 224cd. The structure of spacer ridge 222 is also
shown in clear detail in FIG. 22.
[0072] FIG. 23 is an isometric view showing the assembly of the two
components, bottom clip 202 and top clip 214. The curved substrates
204 & 216 are shown to follow the same line so as to provide a
firm attachment between the attachment component faces for each
clip. Also shown in FIG. 23 is the manner in which spacer ridge 222
serves to provide a gap between the clips that allows the user to
pry the top clip away from the bottom clip through the simple use
of a finger-hold.
[0073] FIG. 24 shows the same assembly of FIG. 23 in a top plan
view wherein the manner in which double-sided post ridges 210a-210c
are received into and secured within post slots 224ab, 224bc, and
224cd. The arrangement and number of the double-sided post ridges
and the triplet ridge groups shown in FIG. 24 is optimal for use of
the two part attachment surfaces in connection with a cap or the
like (see FIG. 26). Those skilled in the art will recognize that
attachment between two clip components may be made with as few as
one double-sided post ridge in connection with two triplet ridge
groups, or one triplet ridge group in connection with two
double-sided post ridges. This versatility is an important feature
of the structural detail of the alternate preferred embodiment.
Preferably, there are at least three double-sided post ridges
operable in connection with at least four triplet ridge groups.
[0074] It should also be recognized that with the number of post
ridges and triplet ridge groups shown in FIG. 24 the clip becomes
adjustable, wherein the length of the straps to which the clip
components are secured becomes widely adjustable. In other words,
although the arrangement shown in FIG. 24 secures each of the three
double-sided post ridges 210a-210c between triplet ridge groups,
top clip 214 may be moved laterally along bottom clip 202 such that
only one or two of the double-sided post ridges are secured between
triplet ridge groups. Clearly, the more post ridges that are
secured between triplet ridge groups, the stronger the attachment.
Nonetheless, the clips structured as shown provide adequate and
secure attachment with as few as one double-sided post ridge
engaged between two triplet ridge groups.
[0075] FIG. 25 is a detailed view of the functional interconnection
between top clip 214 and bottom clip 202. The detailed structures
of the double-sided post ridges and of the triplet ridge groups are
shown. These structures are, of course, repeated with each of the
double-sided post ridges utilized and each of the triplet ridge
groups utilized. In FIG. 25, double-sided post ridge 210b is
removably secured in post slot 224bc between triplet ridge group
220b and 220c. Triplet ridge group 220b is positioned within
triplet slot 212ab and triplet ridge group 220c is secured within
triplet slot 212bc.
[0076] Double-sided post ridge (210b as an example) is preferably
constructed with a trapezoidal cap or head portion for the ridge
that forms a captive slot on either side of the ridge. The
trapezoidal head portion is preferably rounded on each side while
retaining a flat top to provide complete engagement into the post
slot as shown. The rounded edges to the trapezoidal head facilitate
the easy insertion and removal of the post ridge into the post
slot.
[0077] Each triplet ridge group (220b & 220c for example in
FIG. 25) is made up of first prong ridge 226, blocking ridge 230,
and second prong ridge 228. Each of these individual ridges in the
triplet ridge group serves an important function. First and second
prong ridges 226 & 228 provide opposing prong ridge edges that
engage the captive slots in the double-sided post ridge. From the
view shown in FIG. 25 it will be recognized that blocking ridge 230
serves the important function of preventing the insertion of
double-sided post ridge 220b (for example) between a first prong
ridge 226 and a second prong ridge 228 within the same group. Such
insertion would provide no means for securing the two components
together because of the outward orientation of the prong edges.
Instead, blocking ridge 230 serves to direct double-sided post
ridge 210b to engage only between a second prong ridge 228 of a
first triplet ridge group 220b and the first prong ridge of a
second triplet ridge group 220c. As shown in FIG. 25, the
cross-section of double-sided post ridge 210b is preferably an
isosceles trapezoid. In this manner, only the appropriate
engagement between the opposing ridges is allowed.
[0078] Reference is finally made to FIG. 26 for a description of
one example of the utilization of the alternate preferred
embodiment of the attachment surface system of the present
invention shown generally in FIGS. 19-25. In this application
example, cap 236 is constructed with two straps across the back (as
is typical in the art) that are adjustably secured together to
allow the cap to be worn by a variety of individuals with different
sized heads. Top strap 238 is variably positioned with bottom strap
240 to secure cap 236 to the head. Top strap 238 is secured to top
clip 214 by weaving the strap through the strap apertures (see FIG.
21 for appropriate apertures for example) and bottom strap 240 is
secured to bottom clip 202 in a similar manner, weaving the strap
through the strap apertures therein. Once again, the strap
apertures on each of the two clips are constructed with toothed
internal edges that provide enough friction such that weaving the
strap through the apertures secures the clip in a relatively fixed
position on the strap. Fine adjustment of the overall securement
between bottom strap 240 and top strap 238 may be made by adjusting
the placement and positioning of the straps within the strap
apertures on each of the two clips. Once such fine adjustment is
made (preferably with the cap removed from the wearer's head), the
two clip components may be secured together at any of a number of
adjustable positions. As described above, the two clips may be
adequately secured together with as few as one double-sided post
ridge engaging two triplet ridge groups. As many as six different
positions may be utilized in this manner, wherein at least one
double-sided post ridge engages two triplet ridge groups, in the
arrangement shown in FIG. 24 with three double-sided post ridges
engaging four triplet ridge groups. Increasing the number of post
ridges and triplet ridge groups by one each increases the number of
secure positions by two (adding one new position to each end of the
series).
[0079] Although the present invention has been described in
conjunction with a number of preferred embodiments, those skilled
in the art will recognize modifications to these embodiments that
still fall within the scope of the present invention. Because of
the wide variety of applications for the attachment surfaces of the
present invention, the dimensions of the straps, bands, or patch
surfaces may be structured as small or as large as required. In the
final described alternate preferred embodiment, the curvature of
the clip substrates may be varied according to the particular
application to which the straps or bands are being applied. In
addition, the alternate preferred embodiments disclosed may utilize
alignment or sliding stop bars such as the alignment bars shown in
FIGS. 7A-7D and FIGS. 8A-8D. Where it is preferable to utilize the
sliding engagement of the clips as described above (positioning the
clips edge to edge and sliding the post ridges into the post
slots), a more rigid construction material may be used. Where a
press-fit attachment is preferred, a more flexible construction
material may be used. The width of the clip components may also be
varied although increasing the width does increase the press-fit
force required to engage the clips together and the reverse prying
force required to separate the clips. Clip widths in the range of
one-half inch to two inches are preferred.
* * * * *