U.S. patent application number 16/969147 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-11 for securing system.
The applicant listed for this patent is SHURTECH BRANDS, LLC. Invention is credited to Daniel Eric Festa, Sr., Stephen Robert WAGNER, David Adam WORLEY.
Application Number | 20210040981 16/969147 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005192641 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-11 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20210040981 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WAGNER; Stephen Robert ; et
al. |
February 11, 2021 |
SECURING SYSTEM
Abstract
A securing system includes a fastener and a tape. The fastener
includes a main body portion having a first end and a second end, a
curved portion extending from the first end, first and second legs
extending from the second end, and a roller extending between the
first and second legs. The tape may extend around the roller and
may be self-adhering.
Inventors: |
WAGNER; Stephen Robert;
(North Olmsted, OH) ; WORLEY; David Adam;
(Hickory, NC) ; Festa, Sr.; Daniel Eric;
(Strongsville, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SHURTECH BRANDS, LLC |
Avon |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005192641 |
Appl. No.: |
16/969147 |
Filed: |
February 12, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
February 12, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2019/017600 |
371 Date: |
August 11, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62629271 |
Feb 12, 2018 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16B 47/003 20130101;
B60P 7/0823 20130101; F16B 45/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F16B 45/00 20060101
F16B045/00; F16B 47/00 20060101 F16B047/00 |
Claims
1. A hook comprising: a main body portion having a first end and a
second end; a curved portion extending from the first end; a first
leg extending from the second end; a second leg extending from the
second end; and a roller extending between the first leg and the
second leg.
2. The hook of claim 1, further comprising: a first aperture or
recess in the first leg; a second aperture or recess in the second
leg; and a pin extending from the first aperture or recess through
the roller to the second aperture or recess.
3. The hook of claim 1, wherein the roller has a diameter in the
range of about 0.5 to about 2 inches.
4. The hook of claim 1, wherein the roller has a length in the
range of about 1 to about 3 inches.
5. The hook of claim 1, wherein the roller comprises a ceramic,
silicone, a fluoropolymer, plastic, polymeric, steel, aluminum, or
carbon fiber.
6. The hook of claim 1, wherein the roller comprises a core and a
non-stick surface layer.
7. The hook of claim 6, wherein the non-stick surface layer
comprises a ceramic, silicone, a fluoropolymer, plastic, polymeric,
or carbon fiber.
8. The hook of claim 2, wherein first aperture and the second
aperture have diameters in the range of about 0.5 to about 1.5
inches.
9. The hook of claim 2, wherein the pin has a diameter of up to
about 1.5 inches.
10. The hook of claim 2, wherein the pin has a length of about 1 to
about 3 inches.
11. The hook of claim 1, wherein the roller is comprised of at
least two independent sections.
12. A securing system comprising: the hook of claim 1; and a tape
extending around the roller.
13. A securing system comprising: a frame; a fastener engaging the
frame; a swivel connector connecting the fastener to the roller
frame; and an adhesive tape surrounding a portion of said
frame.
14. The securing system of claim 13, further comprising a second
frame including a fastener engaging the second frame and a
contiguous strip of the adhesive tape surrounding a portion of the
second frame.
15. The securing system of claim 14, wherein the tape is
self-adhering.
16. The securing system of claim 13, wherein the at least one
roller consists of one roller.
17. The securing system of claim 13, wherein the at least one
roller comprises a plurality of rollers.
18. The securing system of claim 13, further comprising: a swivel
housing for receiving the swivel connector.
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. The securing system of claim 18, wherein the swivel housing is
selectively detachable from at least one of the fastener and the
frame.
22. (canceled)
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. A securing method comprising: attaching a fastener of a
securing system to an object, the securing system comprising: the
fastener; and a frame; feeding an adhesive tape through the frame;
and adhering a first portion of the adhesive tape which has passed
through the frame to a second portion of the adhesive tape which
has not passed through the frame.
26. (canceled)
Description
[0001] The present application claims priority of Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 62/629,271 filed on Feb. 12, 2018,
which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a securing system. The
system may be useful for securing loads. As one example, there is a
need for systems for tying down loads when hauling materials (e.g.,
wood, pipes, etc.) for home improvement/contractor projects.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to identify a new securing
system with beneficial properties.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0003] The present disclosure relates to a securing system.
[0004] Disclosed, in some embodiments, is a securing system. The
system includes a hook and a tape. The hook includes a main body
portion having a first end and a second end, a curved portion
extending from the first end, first and second legs extending from
the second end, and a roller extending between the first and second
legs. The tape may extend around the roller and may be
self-adhering.
[0005] The first leg may have a first aperture and the second leg
may have a second aperture. A pin may extend through the first
aperture, axially through the roller, and through the second
aperture.
[0006] The system may include one hook or a plurality of hooks.
[0007] In some embodiments, the roller has a diameter in the range
of about 0.5 to about 2 inches.
[0008] The roller may have a length in the range of about 1 to
about 3 inches.
[0009] In some embodiments, the roller comprises a ceramic,
silicone, a fluoropolymer, steel, aluminum, and/or carbon
fiber.
[0010] The roller may include a core and a non-stick surface
layer.
[0011] In some embodiments, the non-stick surface layer comprises a
ceramic, silicone, a fluoropolymer, steel, plastic, polymeric,
aluminum, and/or carbon fiber.
[0012] The first aperture and the second aperture may have
diameters in the range of about 0.5 to about 1.5 inches.
[0013] In some embodiments, the pin has a diameter of up to about
1.5 inches.
[0014] The pin may have a length of about 1 to about 3 inches.
[0015] In some embodiments, the hook comprises nylon, a ceramic
material, steel, plastic, polymeric, and/or aluminum.
[0016] According to a further embodiment, a securing system
comprising a frame, a fastener engaging the frame, and a swivel
connector connecting the fastener to the frame is provided. The
system also includes an adhesive tape surrounding a portion of the
frame.
[0017] According to an additional embodiment, a securing method is
disclosed. The method involves attaching a fastener of a securing
system to an object. The fastener includes a frame and an adhesive
tape fed through the frame, wherein a first portion of the adhesive
tape which has passed through the frame is adhered to a second
portion of the adhesive tape which has not passed through the
frame.
[0018] In another embodiment, a kit for securing a load is
provided. The kit includes a plurality of different shaped
fasteners selectively combinable with a frame and an adhesive tape.
The frame includes a region through which the tape can be passed
and adhered to itself.
[0019] In some embodiments, the tape is a stitch-bonded adhesive
tape including a substrate layer having an outer substrate surface
and an inner substrate surface; and an adhesive layer having an
outer adhesive surface and an inner adhesive surface. A plurality
of functional fibers are stitched to the substrate layer via
stitching fibers.
[0020] In other embodiments, the tape is a stitch-bonded adhesive
tape including a carrier layer having a first surface and a second
surface, a substrate layer on the first surface, and an adhesive
layer on the second surface. A plurality of functional fibers are
stitch-bonded to the carrier layer via stitching fibers.
[0021] Also disclosed is a hook including: a main body portion
having a first end and a second end; a curved portion extending
from the first end; a first leg extending from the second end; a
second leg extending from the second end; and a roller extending
between the first leg and the second leg.
[0022] The system may include one, two, or more hooks.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The following is a brief description of the drawings, which
are presented for the purposes of illustrating the exemplary
embodiments disclosed herein and not for the purposes of limiting
the same.
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a securing system in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of a securing system in
accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a functional diagram of the securing system of
FIG. 2 after the tape has been self-adhered.
[0027] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of another adhesive tape in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a top or bottom view of a stitch-bonded surface in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a method in accordance
with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating another method in
accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 9 includes a cross-sectional drawing of an adhesive
tape in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure,
a schematic illustration of a system for producing the tape, and a
flow chart illustrating a method which may be used to produce the
tape.
[0034] FIG. 10 includes a cross-sectional drawing of an adhesive
tape in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure,
a schematic illustration of a system for producing the tape, and a
flow chart illustrating a method which may be used to produce the
tape.
[0035] FIG. 11 illustrates various other hook and ring designs that
may be used in connection with the tape securing system of the
present application.
[0036] FIG. 12 illustrates two additional hook designs with
different hook shapes and/or roller placement.
[0037] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a securing system in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 14 is a top view of the securing system of FIG. 13.
[0039] FIG. 15 is a side view of the securing system of FIGS. 14
and 15.
[0040] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a securing system in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 17 is a top view of the securing system of FIG. 16.
[0042] FIG. 18 is a side view of the securing system of FIGS. 16
and 17 with an alternate swivel securing arrangement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] The present disclosure may be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description of desired
embodiments included therein.
[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art. In case of conflict, the present
document, including definitions, will control. Preferred methods
and materials are described below, although methods and materials
similar or equivalent can be used in practice or testing of the
present disclosure. All publications, patent applications, patents,
and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference
in their entirety. The materials, methods, and articles disclosed
herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
[0045] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural
referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0046] As used in the specification and in the claims, the term
"comprising" may include the embodiments "consisting of" and
"consisting essentially of." The terms "comprise(s)," "include(s),"
"having," "has," "can," "contain(s)," and variants thereof, as used
herein, are intended to be open-ended transitional phrases that
require the presence of the named ingredients/steps and permit the
presence of other ingredients/steps. However, such description
should be construed as also describing compositions, mixtures, or
processes as "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" the
enumerated ingredients/steps, which allows the presence of only the
named ingredients/steps, along with any impurities that might
result therefrom, and excludes other ingredients/steps.
[0047] Unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical values in
the specification should be understood to include numerical values
which are the same when reduced to the same number of significant
figures and numerical values which differ from the stated value by
less than the experimental error of the conventional measurement
technique of the type used to determine the particular value.
[0048] All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the recited
endpoint and independently combinable (for example, the range of
"from 2 to 10" is inclusive of the endpoints, 2 and 10, and all the
intermediate values). The endpoints of the ranges and any values
disclosed herein are not limited to the precise range or value;
they are sufficiently imprecise to include values approximating
these ranges and/or values.
[0049] As used herein, approximating language may be applied to
modify any quantitative representation that may vary without
resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related.
Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as "about"
and "substantially," may not be limited to the precise value
specified, in some cases. The modifier "about" should also be
considered as disclosing the range defined by the absolute values
of the two endpoints. For example, the expression "from about 2 to
about 4" also discloses the range "from 2 to 4." The term "about"
may refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number. For
example, "about 10%" may indicate a range of 9% to 11%, and "about
1" may mean from 0.9-1.1.
[0050] For the recitation of numeric ranges herein, each
intervening number there between with the same degree of precision
is explicitly contemplated. For example, for the range of 6-9, the
numbers 7 and 8 are contemplated in addition to 6 and 9, and for
the range 6.0-7.0, the number 6.0, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6,
6.7, 6.8, 6.9, and 7.0 are explicitly contemplated.
[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a securing system 1 in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The
system 1 includes a hook 10 and tape 40. The hook 10 includes a
main body portion 15 and a curved portion 20. The main body portion
15 and the curved portion 20 may be integral or separate. The main
body portion 15 includes a first end 16 and a second end 18. The
curved portion 20 extends from the first end 16. First and second
legs 30, 32 extend from the second end 18. A roller 35 extends
between the legs 30, 32 and is secured thereto via a pin 38. The
tape 40 is provided to the roller 35. Although the depicted
embodiment includes one roller and one piece of tape, a plurality
of rollers and/or pieces of tape may be included in other
embodiments. Furthermore, the hook may be replaced by a different
type of fastener. Non-limiting examples of alternative fasteners
include clips (e.g., carabiners), bolts, nuts, nails, stakes, and
screws.
[0052] FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of a securing system in
accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a
functional diagram of the securing system of FIG. 2 after the tape
has been self-adhered.
[0053] The depicted hook includes a main body portion having a
first end and a second end; a curved portion extending from the
first end; a first leg extending from the second end; a second leg
extending from the second end; and a roller extending between the
first leg and the second leg. However, it should be understood that
other ring and hook structures may be used in addition to or
instead of the depicted hook. Additionally, the systems and methods
of the present disclosure may utilize one, two, three, four, or
more rings and/or hooks which may be the same or different.
[0054] The main body portion, curved portion, first leg, second
leg, and the roller may be made from the same or different
materials. In some embodiments, the materials for these components
are independently selected from plastic materials, metals, metal
alloys, metal composites, polymers (e.g., styrene polymers), and
polymer blends. The polymer or polymer blend is optionally
reinforced. Non-limiting examples of reinforcement materials
include glass fibers, carbon fibers, and aramid fibers.
[0055] The main body portion and the curved portion may be a
unitary structure or may be distinct pieces. In embodiments wherein
the main body portion and the curved portion are distinct pieces,
they may be fixed to one another or may be permitted to move
relative to one another. For example, the curved portion may be
able to move axially or radially with respect to a main axis of the
main body portion. In particular embodiments, the curved portion
and the main body portion are hinged together.
[0056] The hook may have dimensions of from about 0.5 to about 1.5
inches.
[0057] The main body portion and the curved portion may be made
from the same or different compositions. Non-limiting examples of
materials that may be useful in the main body portion and the
curved portion include nylon, steel, aluminum, polycarbonate,
plastic, polymeric and carbon fiber.
[0058] The roller may be made from a non-stick material or may
include a core layer and a non-stick surface layer. Non-limiting
examples of non-stick materials include a ceramic, silicone, a
fluoropolymer, nylon, steel, plastic, polymeric, aluminum,
polycarbonate, and carbon fiber. In some embodiments, the
fluoropolymer is polytetrafluoroethylene.
[0059] The roller may have a diameter in the range of about 0.5 to
about 2 inches.
[0060] The roller may have a length in the range of about 1 to
about 3 inches.
[0061] In some embodiments, the hook further includes a first
aperture or recess in the first leg; a second aperture or recess in
the second leg; and a pin extending from the first aperture or
recess through the roller to the second aperture or recess.
[0062] A securing system containing the hook may further include an
adhesive tape. The adhesive tape may extend around the roller and
may be self-adhering.
[0063] In some embodiments, the hook with roller allows adhesive
tape to pass through and move freely. The system may be used like a
ratchet strap system, but with the adhesive tape. The adhesive tape
may be reused, repositioned, or discarded depending on the
situation.
[0064] The concepts disclosed herein may be broadly applied to
other hook, line set, tethering, or securing systems and
projects.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, in element A, the adhesive tape
is fed through the pulley-hook system. In element B, the hook is
affixed to a secure row/strapping point. In element C, the tape is
tightened through the pulley-hook adding tensile strength and
tightening the strapping apparatus. In element D, the tape is
adhered to itself (adhesive-to-adhesive) to form a secure bond.
[0066] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape 100 in
accordance with selected embodiments of the present disclosure. The
tape 100 includes a substrate (e.g., film) layer 110 having a top
surface 112 and a bottom surface 114, a carrier (e.g., nonwoven,
foam, etc.) layer 120 having a top surface 122 and a bottom surface
124, an adhesive layer 130 having a top surface 132 and a bottom
surface 134, and a functional fiber layer 115a between the
substrate layer 110 and the carrier layer 120. The functional fiber
layer 115a is stitch bonded to the bottom surface 114 of the
substrate layer 110 or the top surface 122 of the carrier layer
120.
[0067] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape 100
which is similar to that of FIG. 4A. The difference between these
drawings is the location of the functional fiber layer. In FIG. 4B,
the functional fiber layer 115b is located between the carrier
layer 120 and the adhesive layer 130. The functional fiber layer
115b is stitch bonded to the bottom surface 124 of the carrier
layer 120.
[0068] Where layers are illustrated adjacent to each other in the
drawings, it should be understood that they may be in direct
physical contact or one or more intermediate layers (not shown) may
be included there between. For example, tie layers may be included
to promote adhesion. Other optional layers can include foam,
nonwoven pad, knitted or structural netting, film, metallized
sheet, etc. that could impart structural characteristics, thermal,
electrical, noise insulation, enhanced strength in length or width,
etc.
[0069] In some embodiments, the carrier layer 120 comprises
polyester (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET)) or polyethylene
or polypropylene or other polymers or cellulose or natural fibers
(e.g., cotton, hemp, flax, etc).
[0070] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of another adhesive tape
200 in accord with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The
tape 200 includes a substrate (e.g., film) layer 210 having a top
surface 212 and a bottom surface 214, an adhesive layer 230 having
a top surface 232 and a bottom surface 234, and a functional fiber
layer 215 between the substrate layer 210 and the adhesive layer
230. The functional fiber layer 215 is stitch bonded to the bottom
surface 214 of the substrate layer 210.
[0071] FIG. 6 is a top or bottom view of a stitch-bonded surface
335 in accordance with selected embodiments of the present
disclosure. The arrows designate the machine (or long axis)
direction 340 and the transverse or cross (or short axis) direction
350. A plurality of functional fibers 337 are secured to the
surface via stitching fibers 339. The stitching fibers 339
generally cross over (back and forth) the functional fibers 337 to
secure the functional fibers 337 to the surface. The surface 335
may represent one or more of the top surface 112, 212 of the
substrate layer 110, 210; the bottom surface 114, 214 of the
substrate layer 110, 210; the top surface 122 of the carrier layer
120; and the bottom surface 124 of the carrier layer 120 as
illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0072] The functional fibers and optionally the stitching fibers
may be visible through one or both of the adhesive and/or the
substrate layer. The substrate layer and the functional fibers can
be of different colors. The substrate layer can be transparent and
the functional fibers are colored. The stitching fibers can be of
different color than the functional fibers. The stitching fibers
can be visible on the top surface of the tape when its applied. The
substrate and the stitching fibers can be contrasting colors of
almost any combination.
[0073] The substrate layer 110, 210 may protect the carrier layer
120 and adhesive layer 130, 230 from environmental conditions
(e.g., water). In some embodiments, the substrate layer comprises
polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and/or polyester.
The substrate layer may have a thickness of from about 1 to about
20 mils, including from about 2 to about 15 mils. In some
embodiments, the substrate layer has a thickness of from about 0.90
to about 1.45 g/cm.sup.3.
[0074] The substrate layer may include one or more additives. In
some embodiments, the additive(s) is/are selected from ethylene
vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, calcium carbonate,
pigment, colorant, clay, and TiO.sub.2. The substrate may be a
monolayer or may comprise a plurality of sublayers.
[0075] The carrier layer 120 may comprise polyester or
polypropylene or polyethylene or a manufactured regenerated
cellulose fiber material (e.g., Rayon). The carrier layer may have
a thickness of from about 1 to about 15 mils, including from about
2 to about 10 mils.
[0076] In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 130, 230 comprises a
pressure sensitive adhesive. The adhesive composition may be
engineered for the structural characteristics of the
substrate/stitched substrate. For example, it may be balanced to
achieve a performance considering the interaction with the
characteristics of the substrate (e.g., stiffness, bending
strength, etc.). In some embodiments, the adhesive layer contains
one or more of natural rubber, butyl rubber, acrylic rubber,
synthetic rubber, a butyl adhesive material, and an acrylic
adhesive material. The adhesive layer may have a thickness of from
about 1 to about 15 mils, including from about 2 to about 10
mils.
[0077] The tape may have an overall thickness of from about 5 to
about 40 mils, including from about 10 to about 25 mils.
[0078] The functional fibers may be visible through the adhesive
and/or the substrate layer and provide some distinctive visual
attribute. The stitching fibers may be visible through the adhesive
and/or the substrate layer and provide some distinctive visual
attribute. In some embodiments, the combination of functional
fibers and stitching fibers provide a desired aesthetic appearance
(e.g., a desired color scheme or a design indicative of the extreme
functionality, strength, elasticity, and/or other properties of the
tape). The design topic could include the cross machine
stretch/flexibility, elasticity (potential), content of proprietary
fibers/materials, etc.
[0079] The stitching fibers may impart a surface character that
will be discernible by touch. The functional fibers may impart a
tactile feel running in the machine direction or other direction in
which functional properties (e.g., strength) are desired.
[0080] In embodiments wherein the functional fibers are stitched to
the carrier layer, the carrier layer may impart a slight body to
the tape.
[0081] The tensile strength of the adhesive tape may be greater
than about 50 pounds per linear inch, including greater than about
100 pounds per linear inch, greater than about 150 pounds per
linear inch, greater than about 200 pounds per linear inch, greater
than about 250 pounds per linear inch, and greater than about 300
pounds per linear inch.
[0082] In some embodiments, the tensile strength is from about 100
pounds per linear inch to about 500 pounds per linear inch.
[0083] A suitable fiber denier can be determined by setting the
desired strength based on the application, measuring the strength
per denier, and calculating the denier needed to achieve the
desired strength. In certain embodiments, the denier of the
functional fibers will be different than the denier of the
stitching fibers. For example, the functional fibers can have a
smaller or larger denier. Similarly, it is envisioned that the
material of the functional fibers can be different from the
stitching fibers. Similarly, it is contemplated that different
denier functional fibers are used across the width of the tape. For
example, it may be advantageous to employ higher denier fibers
adjacent the tape edges.
[0084] Accordingly, the strength of tape products produced
according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may be
easily tunable. The tape may have a full extension strength of at
least 30 pounds, including at least 40 pounds, at least 50 pounds,
at least 60 pounds, at least 70 pounds, and at least 80 pounds.
[0085] In some embodiments, the strength improvement is desired in
the machine direction and there are no functional fibers in the
transverse direction, thereby allowing the substrate to be
stretched or pulled in the transverse/cross direction for
conformability.
[0086] In some embodiments, the tape is hand-tearable in the
machine direction between the functional fibers. This permits a
customer to adjust the dimensions of each piece of tape. In some
embodiments, the tape is pre-cut or perforated to tear in one or
both of the cross or machine directions at predetermined
lengths.
[0087] In some embodiments, elastic (e.g., spandex) fibers can be
enclosed in a sheath of other functional fibers (e.g., structural
fibers). Once elongated, the sheath provides tensile strength at
the fullest extension. In other embodiments, other functional
fibers (e.g., structural fibers) can be enclosed in a sheath of
elastic fibers.
[0088] The maximum elongation may be from about 20% to about 50%,
including from about 25% to about 40%, and from about 30% to about
35%.
[0089] The functional fibers generally enhance one or more
properties of the adhesive tape. Non-limiting examples of
functional fibers include elastic fibers and structural fibers. The
functional fibers can be monofilament fibers or bundles of fibers
(i.e., multiple strands). The elastic fibers can allow the tape to
behave like a bungee cord, stretch and then recover strength. The
structural fibers can impact initial strength and/or the properties
such as conductibility and/or conductivity.
[0090] Non-limiting examples of functional fiber materials include
polyester fibers, carbon fibers, and aramid fibers (e.g.,
para-aramid fibers (such as KEVLAR.RTM. from DuPont) and
meta-aramid fibers (such as NOMEX.RTM. from DuPont). Of course, in
addition to the denier discussion above, the material selected for
the functional fiber will influence the tape strength and elastic
characteristics. In some embodiments, the fibers are coated to
enhance chemical resistance, enhance flame resistance,
increase/modify cohesion, increase/modify interlaminar bonding,
and/or adjust other properties.
[0091] The fibers may be a combination of materials, with each
fiber selected for its individual performance and its composite
contribution to desired properties. Carbon fiber, electrical wire,
elastic fiber, or other fibers may be stitched in location alone or
in combination with other fibers. For example, every n.sup.th fiber
(e.g., 5.sup.th fiber) could be an electrical wire or a sensor
wired to detect temperature, pressure, etc. or to dissipate or
conduct current.
[0092] In some embodiments, the fibers are cut and/or break
resistant.
[0093] The elastic fibers may have an elasticity of from about 25%
to about 100% elongation. The elastic fibers may exhibit recovery
with engineered extension and recovery force, dependent on the
application. The elastic fibers may exhibit full extension tensile
strength of from about 25 to about 200 pounds per linear inch. The
fiber denier, diameter, and density will vary depending on the
fiber material and desired performance characteristics.
[0094] The stitching fibers may include one or more materials
selected from polyester, carbon and carbon compounds, specialty
fibers including Kevlar, aramids, fiberglass,
ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (such as spectra and
Dyneema), polyethylene, polypropylene, silk, spandex, rubber,
vinyl, and nylon.
[0095] In some embodiments, the stitching fibers include structural
sheathes, coatings, and/or windings to provide extension control
and/or high tensile strength.
[0096] An engineered release composition or a release liner may be
used in conjunction with the adhesive. The release composition may
be applied to the top or back surface of the tape, allowing the
adhesive to come in contact with the engineered fibers that are
stitched through the substrate to allow a calibrated release
allowing the tape to be unwound, but balance the character of the
unwind force, clean removal from the back of the tape and fibers,
non-contamination of the adhesive, etc.
[0097] The engineered release system can be formulated in
conjunction with the adhesive and one or both of the stitching
fibers and/or the functional fibers. The release system can be
applied to the top or back surface of the tape allowing the
adhesive to come in contact with the engineered fibers that are
stitched through the substrate to allow a calibrated release
allowing the tape to be unwound, but balance the character of the
unwind force, clean removal from the back of the tape & fibers,
non-contamination of the adhesive, etc. The selected release
composition can be selected to facilitate unwinding of a spooled
adhesive tape. In this regard, the release composite can be
selected to be interactive with the material(s) selected for the
functional fiber(s). One exemplary release composition includes
silicone and/or acrylic and/or chromium complex and/or fluorinated
chemistries.
[0098] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a method for forming an
adhesive tape 401 in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure. The method 401 includes forming a substrate
(e.g., film) layer 455, stitching functional fibers to the
substrate layer 460, and applying an adhesive layer to the
substrate layer 465. The stitching 460 may include feeding the
substrate layer and functional fibers to a stitch-bonding machine,
whereby the functional fibers are secured to a surface of the
substrate layer via stitching fibers.
[0099] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating another method for
forming an adhesive tape 501 in accordance with some embodiments of
the present disclosure. The method 501 includes forming a carrier
(e.g., nonwoven, foam, etc.) layer 556, stitching functional fibers
to the carrier layer 561, joining the carrier layer to a substrate
(e.g., film) layer 563, applying an adhesive layer to the carrier
layer 566, and applying a release composition to the substrate
layer 563. The stitching 561 may include feeding the carrier layer
and functional fibers to a stitch-bonding machine, whereby the
functional fibers are secured to a surface of the carrier layer. In
some embodiments, joining the carrier layer to a substrate layer
may include feeding the stitch-bonded carrier to calendaring
equipment, whereby a substrate layer is melt extruded to the
carrier. In some embodiments, the method may include a step of
applying a release composition 569 to the substrate layer. Although
not depicted, this step is also optional in the method of FIG.
7.
[0100] FIG. 9 includes a cross-sectional drawing of an adhesive
tape in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure,
a schematic illustration of a system for producing the tape, and a
flow chart illustrating a method which may be used to produce the
tape. In the depicted embodiment, the fibers are stitched directly
to the substrate (e.g., film). Particularly, in a first step 601 a
film roll 603 provides a sheet of film material 605 to stitch
bonding machine 607. Structural fibers 609 are provided from spool
611 to the stitch bonding machine 607. Stitching fibers 613 are
provided from spool 615 to stitch bonding machine 607 wherein the
structural fibers 609 are attached to the film sheet 605 to provide
a reinforced tape backing sheet 617 which is wound onto roll 619
for further processing. Roll 619 is transported to a tape
manufacture assembly step 620, wherein backing sheet 617 is fed to
adhesive applicator 621 to form an adhesive inclusive sheet 618 and
optionally a release coat applicator 623. The completed tape sheet
material 624 is then rolled 625 and transported or stored for
trimming in accord with traditional tape manufacturing processes.
With respect to process flow, the tape backing is stitch bonded
with functional fiber and rolled 627. The rolled tape backing then
receives adhesive and optionally a release coat 629 and is again
rolled. The adhesive inclusive fiber reinforced tape sheet is then
slit into appropriate tape widths, rolled, and packaged 631.
[0101] FIG. 10 includes a cross-sectional drawing of an adhesive
tape in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure,
a schematic illustration of a system for producing the tape, and a
flow chart illustrating a method which may be used to produce the
tape. In the depicted embodiments, the fibers are stitched to a
carrier (e.g., nonwoven) prior to bonding to the substrate (e.g.,
film). In this embodiment, a first functional fiber inclusive
fabric formation step 701 is provided. Particularly, a rolled
substrate 703 (for example polyolefin sheet or fleece or non-woven)
is fed to stitch bonding machine 705 wherein functional fiber 707
is received from spool 709 and stitch bonded to substrate 703 using
stitching fiber 711 received from spool 713. The fabric 715 is then
rolled 717 for further processing. In process step 721, fabric 715
is co-fed with tape backing substrate 723 into an adhesive
applicator 725, release coat applicator 727 and then rolled 729 for
further processing. At process step 731 an alternative tape
formation procedure is depicted. In this configuration, fabric 715
is co-fed with tape backing substrate 723 into melt processor 733
wherein one or both of the fabric carrier and the tape backing
substrate are melted and joined together to form reinforced tape
sheet 735 which is rolled 737. Reinforced tape sheet 735 can then
be fed to adhesive applicator 739 (application of a release coat is
a further optional step-not shown) to obtain a finished tape sheet
740. With respect to process flow, a fiber reinforced fabric is
formed 751, the fabric is joined with a tape backing using either
adhesive 753 or melt adherence 755. If melt adherence 755 is used,
adhesive is applied to the tape sheet 757. The adhesive inclusive
tape sheet is then treated with a release coat 759 and again
rolled. The adhesive inclusive fiber reinforced tape sheet is then
slit into appropriate tape widths, rolled, and packaged 760.
[0102] FIG. 11 illustrates various other hook and ring designs that
may be used in connection with the tape securing system of the
present application.
[0103] FIG. 12 illustrates two additional hook designs with
different hook shapes and/or roller placement. These configurations
may prevent the tape from binding up when pulled through the hooks.
In the left embodiment, the opening through which the tape is fed
is curved in nature and supporting several small rollers positioned
along that curvature. Conceptually, this design will allow the tape
to freely move both in the tape direction, through the opening, and
laterally, along the horizontal axis of the hook, to allow for
greater ease of use and avoid `binding`. This `binding` would
involve the adhesive of the tape sticking to the side of the hook
and impeding smooth operation of the tape/hook system. In the right
embodiment, the `main` opening through which the tape is fed is
flanked on both sides by extended openings along the sides of the
hook creating a larger "U" shaped opening. Three rollers (1
positioned at the bottom and 2 along the sides of this "U") will
work in conjunction to allow for unrestricted passage of the
adhesive tape material through the opening. As with the left
embodiment, conceptually, this design will allow the tape to freely
move both in the tape direction, through the opening, and
laterally, along the horizontal axis of the hook, to allow for
greater ease of use and avoid `binding`. This `binding` would
involve the adhesive of the tape sticking to the side of the hook
and impeding smooth operation of the tape/hook system.
[0104] The tapes of the present disclosure may offer enhanced
properties for wrapping, holding, securing, sealing, bundling,
pulling tight/taking slack out, closing, holding closed, holding
tight, etc.
[0105] In some embodiments, the tape is a box-sealing tape,
double-sided tape, duct tape, kinesiology tape, electrical tape,
marking tape, friction tape, gaffer tape, masking tape, or surgical
tape.
[0106] The composition, dimensional characteristics, mono filament
versus engineered bundle, etc. can provide novel performance of the
tape and the overall characteristics and/or type of suitable
applications. Moreover, a wide range of fiber, denier and/or
materials can be stitch bonded to the substrate. It can even be a
combination of materials. In one version, a structural polyester
fiber with each fiber selected for its individual performance and
then its composition contribution to the tensile strength is
selected. Individual fiber selection can be varied to give a
physical characteristic to the tape, i.e. could be thick/large
diameter or small to either be felt or seen as desired. Multiple
layers could be stitch bond together in addition to the structural
fibers. There could be a foam, nonwoven pad, knitted or structural
netting, film, metallized sheet, etc. that could impact structural
characteristics, thermal, electrical, noise insulation, enhanced
strength in length or width, etc.
[0107] FIGS. 13-15 depict another securing system 601 in accordance
with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The system 601
includes a hook 610 secured to a roller frame 660 via a swivel
connector 655. The swivel connector 655 permits rotation of the
roller frame 660 relative to the fastener 610 or vice versa. A
swivel housing 650 may be included in some embodiments. The roller
frame 660 receives at least one (e.g., five in the depicted
embodiment) roller 635. The hook 610 and the swivel connector 655
may be integral or separate parts.
[0108] FIGS. 16-18 depict another securing system 701 in accordance
with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The system 701
includes a clip 711 secured to a roller frame 760 via a swivel
connector 755. The swivel connector 755 permits rotation of the
roller frame 760 relative to the fastener 710 or vice versa. A
swivel housing 750 may be included in some embodiments. The roller
frame 760 receives at least one (e.g., five in the depicted
embodiment) roller 735. The clip 711 may secure the system to a
target and/or to another fastener. The clip 711 and the swivel
connector 755 may be integral or separate parts.
[0109] For example, the clip 711 may be secured using pin 722
including a rotatable head 724 received in a threaded bore 726.
Accordingly, pin 722 can selectively engage clip 711 allowing
detachment from tarp clasp 728 (FIGS. 16-17).
[0110] In FIG. 18, the swivel is detachable from roller frame 760
via a head 757 threadedly attached to post 759.
[0111] The hook 610 and the clip 711 may be replaced by other types
of fasteners. Furthermore, multiple fasteners may be included. When
the system includes multiple fasteners, they may be of the same
type or different types. Multiple fasteners may be connected to the
roller frame via the same swivel connector or via separate swivel
connectors.
[0112] The securing system may be modular. In some embodiments, a
securing system kit includes a plurality of different fasteners
which can easily be attached or removed from the roller frame 660.
The different fasteners may be of different types and/or different
sizes.
[0113] In some embodiments, the swivel connector extends directly
through the roller frame in the absence of a separate swivel
housing. Alternatively, a swivel housing may be included within the
roller frame (in contrast to FIGS. 12-18 where the swivel housing
is depicted outside of the roller frame).
[0114] The swivel housing may be open (as shown in FIGS. 12-18) or
closed.
[0115] Although the roller frame in FIGS. 13-18 includes a curved
portion for receiving the rollers, it should also be understood
that other shape may also be used. For example, rollers may be
attached to one or more straight portions of the roller frame.
[0116] When the swivel housing is included, the roller frame and
the swivel housing may be integral or separate parts.
[0117] Any individual component or combination of components may be
release-coated with a non-adhesive material (e.g., silicone) to
prevent adhesion of the tape.
[0118] The tape may be provided via a ratchet mechanism.
[0119] The ability to rotate the tape using the swivel connector
allows a user to prevent the adhesive side of the tape from
undesirably contacting certain surfaces. For example, the securing
system may be used to secure items during moving. It may be
undesirable for the adhesive surface to contact the items or a
cover (e.g., a tarp) on the items. Rotating the tape may ensure
that the tape surface that contacts the items/cover is the
non-adhesive surface.
[0120] It will be appreciated that variants of the above-disclosed
and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be
combined into many other different systems or applications. Various
presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications,
variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by
those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed
by the following claims.
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