Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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FASTENING STRIPS WITH BARBED CLOSURE ELEMENTS
[0001] The present invention relates to interlocking closure strips, and more
particularly, an interlocking fastening strip that includes at least one
barbed closure
element particularly adapted for use with reclosable plastic storage bags.
[0002] Known closure fastening devices used in conjunction with thermoplastic
reclosable containers provide an effective seal of the contents in the
container when the
fastening device is placed in a closed position. Such fastening devices
typically
comprise a pair of complementary closure strip elements that extend
longitudinally
along the upper portions of opposed sidewalk of the containers. The closure
elements
are constructed such that they interlockingly engage with each other in a
closed or
occluded position, while at the same time .permitting relatively easy
disengagement of
the closure elements when the container is opened from the outside.
[0003] .One desirable feature of many such fastening devices is that they
enable
the user to determine the state of closure of the fastening device. For
example, one
known arrangerrient provides a visual indication of the closure state of the
fastening
device with the use of various colorations of the opposed closure elements.
One such
arrangement is disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,829,641. When the opposed closure
elerrients
are interlocked, the user perceives a third distinct coloration of overlapping
element
portions indicative of proper closure of the container.
[0004] Other conventional techniques utilize a particular tactile "feel"
provided
to the user of the container to indicate closure of the container. For
example, U.S.
Patent 5,070,584 discloses a zipper arrangement that piovides the perception
of a
"bumpy" feel. The zipper arrangement includes a pair of opposing interlockable
rib and
groove profiles where one of the profiles has a plurality of indentations
spaced
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longitudinally therealong. These indentations purportedly provide an audible
clicking
sound or bumpy feel that is perceptible to the user as the cutout or weakened
portions
flex :during closure.
[0005] The present invention provides a fastening closure strip for use with a
reclosable storage container that comprises a pair of interlocking closure
elements. The
fastening closure strip has a multiple position. feature. In accordance with
this
invention, the user can move the closure strip from one position to another
position.
The engagement surfaces of the closures are referred to herein as barbed
surfaces owing
to the multiplicity of their engagement surfaces. One form of such engagement
surfaces
are often referred to as hooks. Accordingly, references herein to "hooks" are
intended
to refer to one type of a barb for use in this invention. At least one of the
closure
elements has a barbed surface to provide the user of the storage container a
distinctive
tactile "feel" when the container is closed.
[0006] Structurally, a closure fastening device according to the present
invention comprises a pair of opposed, longitudinally extending closure strip
elements
adapted to interlockingly engage with each other a fizlly occluded mode. One
of the
closure element strips includes a plurality of barbs extending from an upright
peripheral
segment of the closure strip. The second closure element includes a
complemental
segment that intermittently engages the barbs as the closure elements are
moved to the
fully occluded mode upon the application of compression forces. This manner of
engagement provides a ratcheting sensation to the user of the interlocking
closure
device.
[0007] In one embodiment, the first closure element strip comprises a base
portion having a pair of spaced-apart, elongate first webs extending
therefrom. The
webs each include a male hook member extending outwardly from each of the
respective webs. The second closure element similarly comprises a pair of webs
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extending from a second base portion. The second webs include a plurality of
spaced-apart female barbs that extend inwardly to permit intermittent
ratcheting
engagement with the corresponding hook members when the fastening device is
moved
from a deoccluded mode to the occluded mode.
[0008] The invention may also be embodied in a closure fastening device
comprising a first male closure element that includes a base portion having a
pair of
spaced-apart, elongate first webs extending therefrom. In this embodiment, the
first
webs each include a plurality of spaced-apart male barbs extending outwardly
from
each of the webs. The fastening device includes a female closure element
having a pair
of second webs extending from a second base portion. At least one of the
second webs
include a female hook member that extends inwardly to permit intermittent
ratcheting
engagement with the corresponding male barbs when the fastening device is
moved ,
from a deoccluded mode to the occluded mode.
[0009] - In yet another embodiment, a closure fastening device comprises a
male
closure element with a pair of webs in the form of a serpentine profile
configuration to
provide a substantial wave like surface. This profile configuration forms a
plurality of
interleaved protrusions and corresponding depressions. The device further
comprises
a complementary female closure element including a pair of second webs, each
of
which has a female hook member adapted to intermittently engage the
protrusions of
the serpentine profile configuration.
[0010] Other advantages and embodiments of the invention will be apparent to
those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed
description and
appended claims, and upon reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0011] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a thermoplastic reclosable container
that
is suitable for incorporating the present invention.
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[0012] Fig. 2 is a cross sectional view of a fastening device with at least
one
barbed closure element, taken along the lines 2-2 of Fig. 1, shown in a non-
occluded
position according to the present invention.
[0013] Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the male closure
element according to the invention showing the relative dimensions of the
various
elements of the male closure element.
[0014] Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the female
closure element according to the invention suitable for use with the male
closure
element of Fig. 3A and showing the relative dimensions of the various elements
of the
female closure element.
[0015] Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are cross sectional views of the fastening device
of
Fig. 2 shown in various positions.
[0016] Fig. 5A is a cross sectional view of the fastening device of Fig. 2 in
a
fully occluded position.
[0017] Fig. 5B is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the
fastening
device shown in Fig. 5A.
[0018] Fig. 6 is a cross sectional view of a fastening device shown in a
non-occluded position according to a second embodiment of the present
invention.
[0019] Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 are cross sectional views of the fastening device of
Fig.
6 in various positions.
[0020] Fig. 9A is a cross sectional view of the fastening device of Fig. 6 in
a
fully occluded position.
[0021] Fig. 9B is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the
fastening
device of Fig. 9A.
[0022] Fig. 10 is a cross sectional view of a fastening device shown in a
non-occluded position according to a third embodiment of the present
invention.
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[0023] Fig. 1 l and Fig. 12 are cross sectional views of the fastening device
shown in Fig. 10 shown in various positions.
[0024] Fig. 13 is a cross sectional view of the fastening device of Fig. 10 in
a
fully occluded position.
[0025] Fig. 14 is a cross sectional view of a fastening device according to a
fourth embodiment of the present invention shown in a partially occluded
position.
[0026] Fig. 1 S is a cross sectional view of the fastening device depicted in
Fig.
14 shown in a fully occluded position.
[0027] Fig. 16 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the
fastening
device of Fig. 14. .
[0028] Fig. 17 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0029] Fig: 18 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0030] Fig. 19 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0031] Fig. 20A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment shown in a
non-occluded position.
[0032] Fig. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the fastening device in Fig. 20A
in
the occluded position.
[0033] Fig. 21 is-a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
[0034] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
[0035] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
[0036] Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
[0037] Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment.
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nF,~'All,Fn DR~('.RlPTInN nF THF FM11n111MFNTR
[0038] Generally, the present invention relates to closure fastening strips
that
include complemental closure elements arranged to be interlocked over a
preselected
length of the strip. The.fastening closure strip has a multiple position
feature. In
accordance with this invention, the user can move the closure strip from one
position to
another. position. The engagement surfaces of the closures are refer ed to
herein as
barbed surfaces owing to the multiplicity of their engagement surfaces. One
form of
such engagement surfaces are often referred to as hooks. Accordingly,
references
herein to "hooks" are intended to refer to one type of a barb for use in this
invention.
At least one of the closure elements has a barbed surface used to interconnect
a
complementary closure element surface when the closure elements are placed in
an
occluded position. The barbed surface provides a feel of ratcheting
engagement, as well
as an audible sound, to a user of the plastic container upon the application
of
compressive forces to the closure bases to~.actively engage the barbs,
effectively
occluding the fastening strip.
[0039] Fig. 1 illustrates a thermoplastic container in the form of a plastic
reclosable storage bag 4, that incorporates the teachings of the present
invention. The
storage bag 4 is formed of a relatively thin plastic film folded along the
bottom to
provide a pair of opposed sidewalk 6, 8 joined together along their side
edges, and
providing an opening or mouth 9 at the edge opposite the folded edge. Fig. 1-
also shows
a closure fastening device 10 including a pair of opposed closure elements 12
and 14
connected to the sidewalk. The closure elements 12, 14 preferably each
comprise an
elongate extruded plastic strip that together form a reclosable fastening
device
extending longitudinally between the side edges of the opposed sidewalls 6, 8,
proximate to the opening of the storage bag 4.
[0040] Fig. 2 is a cross sectional view of the closure fastening device 10
illustrating one profile configuration according to the present invention. The
device 10
includes a first closure element 12 and a second complementary closure element
14. In
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the embodiment shown, the closure elements are each plastic strips that
include
respective~base portions which, in turn, are coimected to the container
sidewalk. The
respective base portions are denoted in Fig. 1 by numerals 16, 18. Although
the closure
elements 12, 14 are illustrated as separately formed and thereafter connected
to a plastic
film which forms the sidewalls of the container, they may also be integrally
formed with
the container sidewalls in a conventional manner.
[0041] The structural details of the closure elements 12 and 14 are best seen
in
Fig. 2, as well as Figs. 3A-4B. The first closure element 12 is a male element
comprising a pair of spaced-apart webs 20, 22 disposed in parallel relation
and
extending generally orthogonally to the base portion 16. As used herein, the
term
"male" will refer to a closure element or portion that interfits into the
mating closure
element and has generally outwardly extending hooks or other interlocking
portions.
The outer element which generally has inwardly extending hooks or other
portions will
be referred to as a "female" closure element or portion. A pair of male hook
members
24, 26 are attached to the respective legs such that they face outwardly from
each other.
In particular, the first male hook member 24 is disposed at the distal end of
the first web
20 and protrudes outwardly therefrom. In this embodiment, one of the hook
members
24 includes an inwardly extending guide surface 28 that extends at least
partially
inwardly from the first web 20. In operation, the guide surface 28 serves to
guide the
hook members for occlusion with the female barbs of a mating closure element,
as
described below. As noted above, the second web 22 has the male hook member 26
protruding outwardly from its distal end. This hook member includes a crowned
or
guide surface 30 that likewise facilitates engagement with the female barbs of
the
mating closure element. If desired, the guide surface 30 may extend inwardly
from the
web 22 similar to guide surface 28 and operate in a similar manner. In
addition, the
webs 20, 22 may each include two, three, four or more externally disposed
barbs, as
may be desired, such as the barbs 26a-26c, 24a-24c shown in Fig. 5B or the
barbs
142a-c, 146a-c shown in Fig. 6.
[0042] The first closure element 12 also includes a pair of opposed winged
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guide members 32, 34 spaced laterally from the webs 20, 22 respectively.
Preferably,
the guide members 32, 34 are each constructed with end segments 32e, 34e that
flare
outwardly in order to funnel or guide the complementary webs of the second
closure
element 14 into alignment with the male hook members 24 and 26 as the closure
elements are occluded, as described in greater detail below.
[0043] Fig. 2 illustrates the structural details of the second female closure
element 14. This closure element similarly comprises first and second spaced-
apart
webs 36, 38 disposed in parallel relation and extending generally orthogonally
from the
base portion 18. The first web 36 includes a plurality of spaced-apart
integrally formed
female barbs 40a, 40b, 40c, each of which extends inwardly from the first web
36. Each
of the barbs 40 have generally contoured surfaces 42a-c which guide the barbs
40 into
mated engagement with the corresponding male hook member 24 of a mating
closure
element. The barbs fiirther define a plurality of notches 44a-c in the
interstices between
adjacent barbs. Likewise, the second web 38 includes a plurality of spaced-
apart female
barbs 46a, 46b, 46c, which extend inwardly from the second web 38. These barbs
46
similarly have generally contoured surfaces .48a-c which guide the barbs 46
into mated
engagement with the corresponding male hook member 26 of a mating closure
element.
Likewise, the barbs 46 define a plurality of interdigital notches SOa-c in the
spaces
between adjacent barbs. While this particular embodiment shows three barbs per
web,
each web may have two, three,. four, or more barbs as may be desired.
[0044] In this embodiment, the closure element 14 includes a fin 52 extending
from the base 18 between the webs 36, 38. The fin 52 may be included to
maintain the
structural integrity and facilitate the extrusion of the closure element 18.
Similarly,
closure element 12 may also include a fin extending from base 16. Furthermore,
the
closure elements 12, 14 may include one, two, three or more fins as may be
desired.
The fin may be used with any of the embodiments in this application as
appropriate. In
addition, the fin may also be designed to also function as a color enhancement
member
as described in U.S. Patent 4,829,641, the subject matter of which is
incorporated
herein by reference.
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[0045] The representative dimensions of a representative male closure element
is shown in Fig. 3A where the dimensional values corresponding to the letters
shown in
the drawing are as follows:
Parameter$~ Pr .PfP~P~
A 0.275-0.355 0.315
B 0.099-0.169 0.134
C 0.026-0.066 0.046:
D 0.13 S-0.21 0.175
S
F 0.099-0.169 0.134
G 0.013-0.023 0.018
[0046] The ,female closure element used in conjunction with the male closure
element of Fig. 3A is shown in Fig: 3B wherein the dimensional parameters are
the
following for a representative embodiment:
parameter$ang~ Preferred
H 0.235-0.3150.275
I 0.108-0.1780.143
J 0.013-0.0330.023
K 0.012-0.0220.017
L 0:037-0.0670.052
M 0.023-0.0530.038
N 0.013-0.0230.018
O 0.013-0.0230:018
P 0.013-0.0230.018
Q 0.024-0.0440.034
[0047] In operation, compression forces are applied to the opposed closure
elements 12 and 14 in the directions denoted by the arrows 66, 68 'shown in
Fig. 4A and
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Fig. 4B, substantially normal to the plane of the respective container
sidewalls and base
portions 16, 18. Such forces are typically applied as the user engages the
surfaces of the
container and depresses or pinches his or her fingers along a desired length
of the
closure elements 12, 14. This action moves the opposed male hook members 24,
26
into contacting relation with the respective barb elements 40, 46 which flexes
both pairs
of webs to permit clearance of the hook members and barbs, as shown in Figs.
4A and
4B. Thus, the respective female webs 36, 38 are flexed outwardly. At the same
time,
the respective webs 20, 22 of the male closure element 12 are flexed inwardly.
(0048] As the closure members are urged together, the male hook members 24,
26 intermittently engage corresponding ones of the barbs 40, 46 as the hook
members
are located within the notches disposed intermediate to the barbs. The closure
elements
thus temporarily achieve the orientation shown in Fig. 4B. In this way, the
closure
elements interlock in an interdigitating step-wise fashion until they are
fully occluded,
as shown in Fig. 5A. Accordingly, a ratcheting engagement of the male hook
members
with the barbs that is perceptible to the user occurs'as the closure elements
are urged
together in an interdigitating fashion. In addition, this manner of ratcheting
engagement
generates an audible sound at each instance in which the hook member
disengages from
one of the barbs and is located within the notches formed therebetween due to
the
interdigitating nature of the opposed webs. The sound is caused by the
ratcheting or
snapping of the hook into the notch which results from the release of the
flexure force
of the hook. This sound is likewise readily perceptible by the user during a
closure
operation.
[0049] Preferably, each such intermittent engagement of the male hook
elements with respective ones of the barbs provides sufficient interlocking
engagement
of the closure elements to maintain closure of the container. In most
instances, however,
the user will fully occlude the opposed closure members, in part due to the
audible
sound generated by the fastening device.
[0050] In order to deocclude the fastening device 10, the closure elements 12,
14 are urged apart from each other by pulling on the mouth portion of the
plastic
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container (see Fig. 1). Such pulling action tends to urge the male webs 20, 22
inwardly
and the female webs 36, 38 outwardly to permit passage of corresponding male
hook
members 24, 26 and barbs 40, 46. The same intermittent engagement is perceived
by
the user as a ratcheting of the closure elements 12, 14.
[0051] In Figs. 1-SA, the webs 36; 38 have a barbed surface and the other webs
20, 22 have a complementary surface with a single barb. The ratcheting
engagement is
achieved when a single barb engages the barbed surface. However, as noted
above, the
webs 20, 22 could include multiple barbs as opposed to a single barb. Thus, a
barbed
surface would engage another barbed surface as shown in Fig. 5B. Fig. 5B is
another
embodiment of Figs. 1-SA. The webs 20, 22 each include three externally
disposed
hooks 24a-24c, 26a-26c. Each of these hooks may be of the same size or some of
the
hooks may be of a different size, such as the smaller hooks 24c, 26c. The
number and
size of the hooks will depend upon the particular use for the fastening strip.
[0052] Fig. 6 shows the profile configuration of a fastening device 110
according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment,
a
female closure element 112 includes inwardly oriented hook members which
interlock
with mating barbs of a male closure element 114. In particular, the female
closure
element 112 includes a pair of~spaced-apart webs 120, 122 disposed in parallel
relation
and extending generally outwardly from a base portion 116. In this embodiment,
the
female webs 120, 122 each include a corresponding hook member 124, 126
disposed at
their respective ends such that they protrude inwardly from each other. Each
of the
hook members 124, 126 are formed with a contoured surface 128, 130 to guide
the hook
members for occlusion with corresponding male barbs of a mating closure
element. If
desired each female web 120; 122 may include two, three or more hook members
as
shown by hook members 124a-124c, 126a-126c, in Fig. 9B.
[0053] The male closure element 114 comprises a base section 118 that
similarly has a pair of spaced-apart webs 136, 138 extending outwardly from
the base
portion 118. A first one of the webs 136 includes a plurality of spaced-apart
barbs
140a-c, each of which extends outwardly from the first web 136. As with the
female
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closure element described above, the barbs,140 are formed integrally with the
first web
136 and have generally contoured surfaces 142a-c which guide the barbs into
mated
engagement with the corresponding female hook member 124. The barbs 140
similarly
define a plurality of interdigital notches 144a-c in the spaces between the
barbs.
Likewise, the second web 138 includes a plurality of spaced-apart barbs 146a-c
which
extend outwardly from the second web 138: The barb 146a disposed at the distal
end
of the second web preferably includes an inwardly extending guide surface 148a
that
extends at least partially inwardly from the second web 138. This guide
surface 148a
assists in guiding the barb 146a for occlusion with the mating female hook
member.
The remaining surfaces corresponding with the barbs 146b and 146c each include
contoured surfaces 148b-c to similarly facilitate engagement of the barbs 148b-
c with
the mating female hook member. The barbs 146 additionally form a plurality of
interdigital notches 150a-c in the spaces between adjacent barbs. As with the
embodiment described above, each web may similarly have two, three, four, or
more
barbs as may be desired.
[0054] The male closure element 114 also includes a pair of opposed winged
guide members 132, 134 spaced laterally from the webs 136, 138., As with the
guide
members described above in connection with Figs. 2-S,~the guide members 132,
134 are
each constructed with end segments 132e, 134e that flare outwardly away from
respective webs 136, 136 in order to guide the webs 120, 122 of the female
closure
element into alignment with the male barbs when the closure elements are
occluded.
[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the female closure element 112 includes
a fin 152 extending from the base 116 and the male closure element 114
includes a pair
of spaced-apart fins 160, 162 extending from the base 118 intermediate the
webs 136,
138. The fins 152, 160, 162 may be included to maintain the structural
integrity and
facilitate the extrusion of the closure elements 116, 118. The closure
elements 112, 114
may include one, two, three or more fins as may be desired.
[0056] The operation of the closure fastening device shown in Figs. 6-9B is
similar to that described above. Compression forces similarly are applied to
the
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opposed closure elements 112 and 114 in the direction denoted by the arrows
166, 168
in Figs. 7 and 8, substantially normal to the plane of the respective base
portions 116,
118. This action moves the opposed female hook members 124, 126 into
contacting
relation with the respective barbs' 140, 146 which flexes both pairs of webs
to permit
clearance of the hook members and barbs. This permits intermittent ratcheting
engagement of the hook members 124, 126 with corresponding ones of the barbs
140,
146 as the hook members are located within the interdigital notches 144, 150
formed
between the barbs. Accordingly, a ratcheting engagement of the female hook
members
with the barbs that is perceptible to the user occurs as the closure elements
are urged
together. This ratcheting engagement likewise generates an audible sound at
each
instance in which the hook member disengages one of the barbs and is located
within
the notches. As noted above, the same ratcheting feel is perceived by the user
when the
closure elements 112, 114 are deoccluding.
[0057] Another embodiment of Figs. 6-9A is shown in Fig. 9B. The webs 120,
122 each include three internally disposed hooks 124a-124c,.126a-126c. Each of
these
hooks may be of the same size or some of the hooks may be of a different size,
such as
the smaller hooks 124c, 126c. The number and size of the hooks will depend
upon the
particular use for the fastening strip.
(0058] Fig. 10, as well as Figs. 11-13, illustrate cross sectional profile
views of
a third embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a first
female closure
element 212. comprises a pair of spaced-apart webs 220, 222 extending
outwardly from
a base portion 216. The webs 220, 222 each include a hook elements 224, 226
disposed
at the distal ends of the respective webs that are adapted to interlockingly
engage
segments of a second male closure element 214. Each web 220, 222 may include
one,
two, three or more hook members as may be desired. The second closure element
214
includes a pair of spaced-apart serpentine webs 236, 238 that extend generally
outwardly from a base portion 218. In this embodiment, the first web 236 of
the pair is
of a wave like or serpentine configuration, and includes a plurality of spaced
protrusions 240a-c, each of which projects outwardly from the first web 236.
The
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serpentine profile configuration also defines a plurality of spaced
depressions 244a-c in
the spaces between the protrusions. Likewise, the second web 238 includes
spaced
protrusions 246a-c, which extend outwardly from the second web 238. The
profile
configuration of the second web 238 similarly defines a plurality of spaced
depressions
250a-c intermediate to the protrusions. While the webs are shown with three
protrusions and corresponding depressions, other numbers of protrusions and
depressions may alternatively be utilized, such as, two protrusions and
depressions, or
four protrusions and depressions, or five or more protrusions and depressions:
The
protrusions are similar to barbs.
[0059] The male closure element 214 also includes a pair of guide members 232,
234. As noted above, the guide members 232, 234 are spaced laterally from the
webs
236, 238, respectively. The first closure element 212 includes a fin 252
extending from
the base 216 and the second closure element 214 includes two fins 260, 262
extending
from the base 218. The fins 252, 260, 262 may be included to maintain the
structural
integrity and facilitate the extrusion of the closure elements. The closure
elements 212,
214 may include one, two, three or more fins as may be desired.
[0060] In order to effectuate closure of the fastening device 210 shov~m in
Figs.
10-13, the opposed closure elements 212 and 214 are compressed in a direction
substantially normal to the plane of the respective base portions 216, 218.
The closure
elements are thereby urged into contacting relation as the opposed female hook
members 224, 226 abut against the ends of the respective serpentine webs 236;
238.
This flexes both of the serpentine webs 236, 238 inwardly to permit clearance
of the
hook members and protrusions of the serpentine webs. At the same time, the
respective
female webs 220, 222 are urged outwardly to permit intermittent engagement of
the
hook members 224, 226 within corresponding depressions 244, 250 formed in the
serpentine webs. This arrangement likewise provides an intermittent,
ratcheting
engagement of the female hook members 224, 226 as they traverse the serpentine
webs
that is readily perceptible to the user. The user likewise perceives such
intermittent
engagement when the closure elements are deoccluding. The webs may also have
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different configurations. For example, both webs could be serpentine and
engage in an
interdigitating fashion as in Figs. 20A and 20B. Similarly, the webs could
have a saw
tooth configuration as in Fig. 21, or a series of rounded protrusions
configuration as in
Fig. 22. The webs could then provide multiple engagements afterthe first
engagement.
Several configurations can be utilized as long as the mating and contact
points provide
a leak resistant closure.
[0061] Figs. 14 and 15 illustrate another embodiment of the present invention.
In this embodiment, a fastening device 310 includes a plurality of spaced
protrusions or
bumped surfaces which are formed in the, base portion of one of a pair of
complementary closure elements. As shown, a first closure element 312
comprises a
base portion 316 having a pair of inner male webs 320, 322 extending therefrom
with
male hook portions 324, 326 connected to the distal ends of the inner webs.
The first
hook portion 324 includes a crowned surface 330, while the second hook portion
326
includes an inwardly facing surface 328. A pair of outer webs 332, 334, spaced
laterally
from the inner webs 320, 322, extend from the base portion 316 a distance
greater than
the inner webs 320, 322. The outer webs 332, 334 can be oriented relative to
said base
in the range of 45-90 degrees with the range of 75-90 degrees preferred. In
Fig. 14, the
outer webs 332, 334 are oriented relative to the base 316 at an angle of
approximately
82 degrees. The webs 332, 334 may have any configuration which will facilitate
the
movement of the webs 332, 334, such as curved ends 332a, 334a.
[0062] A'second closure element 314 similarly comprises a base portion 318
with a pair of inner female webs 336, 338 with female hook portions 340, 342
located
at the ends of the inner webs. Each of the female hook portions include an
inwardly
facing surface shown in Figs. 14-15 as numerals 344, 346, respectively. As
with the
embodiments described above, these surfaces facilitate interlocking engagement
of the
male and female hook portions. The base portion 318 of the female closure
element has
a substantially greater width than that of the male closure element in order
to provide a
plurality of protrusions or bumped surfaces 340a-c, 346a-c extending beyond
the outer
ends of the male closure element base portion 316: A plurality of depressions
348a-c,
CA 02562663 2006-10-12
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350a-c are thus formed intermediate the protrusions. While the illustrated
embodiment
employs three protrusions and corresponding depressions disposed at the outer
ends of
the base portion 316, one, two, three or more protrusions and depressions may
also be
used as desired.
[0063] In order to interlock the fastening device, a compression force is
applied
to the opposed closure elements 312, 314 such that the outer webs 332, 334
abut
correspor<ding innermost protrusions 340a, 346a, as is shown in Fig. 14. As
seen in Fig.
14, the male and female hook members are not yet in interlocking engagement.
Further
compression forces flex the outer webs 332, 334 such that the ends 332a, 334a
are urged
past the protrusions 340a, 346a, respectively, and are next located in the
depressions
348b, 350b formed between the protrusions 340a-b, 346a-b. The outer webs are
moved
in step-wise fashion until they abut stop surfaces formed on the protrusions
340c, 346c,
as shown in Fig. 15. In this position, the male and female closure elements
are fully
occluded. When the closure device is occluded as illustrated in Fig. 15, the
outer webs
332, 334 are oriented relative to the base 316 at an angle of approximately 50
degrees.
This arrangement likewise provides a ratcheting engagement of the outer webs
with the
depressions formed between laterally extending bumped surfaces that is
perceptible to
the user as the closure elements are urged together. In addition, an audible
sound is
generated.
[0064] Another embodiment of the spaced protrusions or bumps is shown in Fig.
16. In this embodiment the spaced protrusions have a saw tooth configuration.
Specifically, the closure elements 412, 414 are similar to the closure
elements 312, 314
noted above. However, the base portion 418 has a plurality saw tooth
protrusions
440a-440c, 446a-446c. A plurality of depressions 448a-448d, 450a-450d are thus
formed adjacent the protrusions. The outer webs 432, 434 are moved in a step-
wise
fashion until the webs abut stop surfaces 440d, 446d.
[0065] The closure device may include other types of closure elements.
Referring to Fig. 17, the closure device includes a male closure element 512
and a
female closure element 514. The male closure element includes a web 520 which
16
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extends from a base 516. The web 520 includes a head portion 524 and
protrusions 527,
529. The female closure element 514 includes a channel 539 and two webs 541,
543
which extend from a base 518. The webs 541, 543 include barbs 545a-545c, 547a-
547c
and notches 549a-549c, 551 a-551 c adj acent the barbs. The barbs have
generally
contoured surfaces which guide the protrusions 527, 529 into mated engagement
with
the notches 549a-549c, 551a-551c. While this particular embodiment shows three
barbs per wall, each wall may have one, two, four or more barbs as may be
desired.
[0066] As the closure elements are urged together, the male protrusions 527,
529 intermittently engage corresponding ones of the barbs 545a-545c, 547a-547c
as the
protrusions 527, 529 are located within the notches 549a-549c, 551a-551c. The
closure
elements interlock in an interdigitating step-wise fashion until they are
fully occluded.
Accordingly, a ratcheting engagement of the protrusions with the barbs that is
perceptible to the user occurs as the closure elements are urged together in
an
interdigitating fashion. In addition, this manner of ratcheting engagement
generates an
audible sound at each instance in which the protrusion disengages from one of
the barbs
and is located within the notches formed therebetween due to the
interdigitating nature.
The sound is caused by the ratcheting or snapping of the protrusion into the
notch
which results from the release of the flexure force of the barb. This sound is
likewise
readily perceptible by the user during a closure operation.
[0067] Another embodiment of the closure element with multiple barbs is
shown in F.ig. 18. The closure device includes a male closure element 612 and
a female
closure element 614. The male closure element 612 includes a web 620 which
extends
from a base 616. The web 620 includes a head portion 624, protrusions 627a-
627c,
629a-629c and notches 649a-649c, 651 a-651 c. The female closure element 614
includes a channel 639 and two webs 641, 643 which extend from a base 618. The
webs 641, 643 include barbs 645, 647. While this particular embodiment shows
three
protrusions on each side of the web, each side of the web may have one, two,
four or
more protrusions as may be desired.
17
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[0068] As the closure elements are urged together, the male protrusions 627,
629 intermittently engage corresponding ones of the barbs 645, 647 as the
barbs are
located within the notches 649a-649c, 651 a-551 c. The closure elements
interlock in an
interdigitating step-wise fashion until they are fully occluded. Accordingly,
a ratcheting
engagement of the protrusions with the barbs that is perceptible to the user
occurs as the
closure elements are urged together in an interdigitating fashion. In
addition, this
manner of ratcheting engagement generates an audible sound at each instance in
which
the protrusion disengages from one of the barbs and is located within the
notches
formed therebetween due to the interdigitating nature. The sound is caused by
the
ratcheting or snapping of the barb into the notch which results from the
release of the
flexure force of the barb. This sound is likewise readily perceptible by the
user during
a closure operation.
[0069] The embodiment shown in Fig. 19 combines the female closure element
of Fig. 17 with the male closure element in Fig.l 8. The female closure
element 714 is
similar to female closure element 514 in Fig. 17.' The male closure element
712 is
similar to male closure element 612 in Fig. 18.
[0070] The female closure element 714 includes a channel 739 and two webs
741, 743 which extend from a base 718. The webs 741, 743 include barbs 745,
747 and
notches 749, 751 adjacent the barbs. The barbs have generally contoured
surfaces
which guide the protrusions 727, 729 into mated engagement with the notches
749, 751.
While this particular embodiment shows three barbs per wall, each wall may
have one,
two, four or more barbs as may be desired.
[0071] The male closure element 712 includes a web 720 which extends from
a base 716. The web 720 includes a head portion 724, protrusions 727, 729 and
notches
749, 751. While this particular embodiment shows three protrusions on each
side of the
web, each side of the web may have one, two, four or more protrusions as may
be
desired.
[0072] In order to effectuate closure of the fastening device 710 shown in
Fig.
19, the opposed closure elements 712 and 714 are compressed in a direction
18
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WO 2005/108226 PCT/US2005/012501
substantially normal to the plane of the respective base portions 716, 718.
The closure
elements are thereby urged into contacting relation as the web 720 engages the
respective webs 741, T43. The webs 741, 743 are urged outwardly to permit
intermittent engagement of the barbs with the~protrusions and intermittent
engagement
of the barbs and protrusions with the respective notches. This arrangement
likewise
provides an intermittent, ratcheting engagement that is readily perceptible to
the user.
The user likewise perceives such intermittent engagement when the closure
elements
are deoccluding.
[0073] Refernng to Figs. 20A and 20B, both webs could be serpentine and
engage in an interdigitating fashion. The closure device 810 includes a first
closure
element 812 and a second closure element 814.
[0074] The first closure element 812 is similar to closure element 214 in
Figs.
10-13. The first closure element 812 includes a pair of spaced-apart
serpentine webs
820, 822 that extend generally outwardly from a base portion 816. In this
embodiment,
the first web 820 of the pair is of a wave like or serpentine configuration,
and includes
a plurality of spaced protrusions 824a-c, each of which proj ects outwardly
from the first
web 820. The serpentine profile configuration also defines a plurality of
spaced
depressions 825a-c in the spaces between the protrusions. Likewise, the second
web
822 includes spaced protrusions 826a-c, which extend outwardly from the second
web
822. The profile configuration of the second web 822 similarly defines a
plurality of
spaced depressions 827a-c intermediate to the protrusions. While the~webs are
shown
with three protrusions and corresponding depressions, other numbers of
protrusions and
depressions may alternatively be utilized, such as, two protrusions and
depressions, or
four protrusions and depressions, or five or more protrusions and depressions.
The
protrusions are similar to barbs.
[0075] The second closure element 814 is similar to the first closure element
812. The second closure element 814 includes a pair of spaced-apart serpentine
webs
836, 838 that extend generally outwardly from a base portion 818. In this
embodiment,
the first web 836 of the pair is of a wave like or serpentine configuration,
and includes
19
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WO 2005/108226 PCT/US2005/012501
a plurality of spaced protrusions 840a-c, each of which projects outwardly
from the first
web 836. The serpentine profile configuration also defines a plurality of
spaced
depressions 844a-c in the spaces between the protrusions. Likewise, the second
web
838 includes spaced protrusions 846a-c, which extend outwardly from the second
web
838. The profile configuration of the second web 838 similarly defines a
plurality of
spaced depressions 850a-c intermediate to the protiwsions. While the webs are
shown
with three protrusions arid corresponding depressions, other numbers of
protrusions and
depressions may alternatively be utilized, such as, two protrusions and
depressions, or
four protrusions and depressions, or five or more protrusions and depressions.
The
protrusions are similar to barbs.
[0076] The male closure element 814 also includes a pair of guide members 832,
834. As noted above, the guide members 832, 834 are spaced laterally from the
webs
836, 838, respectively. The first closure element 812 includes a fin 852
extending from
the base 816 and the second closure element 814 includes two fins 860, 862
extending
from the base f 18. The fins 852, 860, 862 may b~e included to maintain the
structural
integrity and facilitate the extrusion of the closure elements. The closure
elements 812,
814 may include one, two, three or more fins as may be desired.
[0077] In order to effectuate closure of the fastening device 810 shown in
Fig.
20A, the opposed closure elements 812 and 814 are compressed in a direction
substantially normal to the plane of the respective base portions 816, 818.
The closure
elements are thereby urged into contacting relation as the opposed serpentine
webs 820,
822 abut against the respective serpentine webs 836, 838. The serpentine webs
836,
838 flex inwardly to permit intermittent engagement of the protrusions with
the other
protrusions and intermittent engagement of the protrusions with the
depressions. At the
same time, the respective webs 820, 822 are urged outwardly to permit
intermittent
engagement of the protrusions with the other protrusions and intermittent
engagement
of the protrusions with the depressions. This arrangement likewise provides an
intermittent, ratcheting engagement that is readily perceptible to the user.
The user
CA 02562663 2006-10-12
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likewise perceives such intermittent engagement when the closure elements are
deoccluding.
[0078] Referring to Fig. 21, both webs could have a saw tooth configuration
and
engage in an interdigitating fashion. The closure device 910 includes a first
closure
element 912 and a second closure element 914.
[0079] The first closure element 912 includes a pair of spaced-apart webs 920,
922 that extend generally outwardly from a base portion 916. In this
embodiment, the
first web 920 of the pair includes a plurality of spaced triangular
protrusions 924, each
of which projects outwardly from the first web 920. The profile configuration
also
defines a plurality of spaced depressions 925 in the spaces between the
protrusions.
Likewise, the second web 922 includes spaced triangular protrusions 926, which
extend
outwardly from the second web 922. The profile configuration of the second web
922
similarly defines a plurality of spaced depressions 927 intermediate to the
protrusions.
While the webs are shown with four protrusions and corresponding depressions,
other
numbers of protrusions and depressions may alternatively be utilized, such as,
two
protrusions and depressions, or three protrusions and depressions, or five or
more
protrusions and depressions. The protrusions are similar to barbs.
[0080] The second closure element 914 is similar to the first closure element
912. The second closure element 914 includes a pair of spaced-apart webs 936,
938 that
extend generally outwardly from a base portion 918. In this embodiment, the
first web
936 of the pair includes a plurality of spaced triangular protrusions 940,
each of which
projects outwardly from the first web 936. The profile configuration also
defines a
plurality of spaced depressions 944 in the spaces between the protrusions.
Likewise,
the second web 938 includes spaced triangular protrusions 946, which extend
outwardly from the second web 938. The profile configuration of the second web
938
similarly defines a plurality of spaced depressions 950 intermediate to the
protrusions.
While the webs are shown with four protrusions and corresponding depressions,
other
numbers of protrusions and depressions may alternatively be utilized, such as,
two
21
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WO 2005/108226 PCT/US2005/012501
protrusions and depressions, or three protrusions and depressions, or five or
more
protrusions and depressions. The protrusions are similar to barbs.
[0081] The male closure element 914 also includes a pair of guide members 932,
934. As noted.above, the guide members 932, 934 are spaced laterally from the
webs
936, 938, respectively. The first closure element 912 includes a fin 952
extending from
the base 916 and the second closure element 914 includes two fins 960, 962
extending
from .the base 918. The fins 952, 960, 962 may be included to maintain the
structural
integrity and facilitate the extrusion of the closure elements. The closure
elements 912,
914 may include one, two, three or more fins as may be desired.
[0082] In order to effectuate closure of the fastening device 910 shown in
Fig.
21, the opposed closure elements 912, 914 are compressed in a direction
substantially
normal to the plane of the respective base portions 916, 918. The closure
elements are
thereby urged into contacting relation as the opposed webs 920, 922 abut
against the
respective webs 936, 938. The webs 936, 938 flex inwardly to permit
intermittent
engagement of the protrusions with the other protrusions and intermittent
engagement
of the protrusions with the depressions. At the same time, the respective webs
920, 922
are urged outwardly to permit intermittent engagement of the protrusions with
the other
protrusions and intermittent engagement of the protrusions with the
depressions. This
arrangement likewise provides an intermittent, ratcheting engagement that is
readily
perceptible to the.user. The user likewise perceives such intermittent
engagement when
the closure elements are deoccluding.
[0083] The triangular protrusions 924, 926, 940, 946 are designed so that the
force required to occlude the closure device is less than the force required
to deocclude
the closure device. Specifically, the faces of the triangular protrusions
which contact
during occlusion are at an angle which will facilitate occlusion. The faces of
the
triangular protrusions which contact during deocclusion are horizontal which
will make
deocclusion more difficult than occlusion. The angles of the faces can be
changed to
achieve the desired results.
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[0084] Referring to Fig. 22, both webs could have a rounded protrusions
configuration and engage in an interdigitating fashion. The closure device
1010
includes a first closure element 1012 and.a second closure element 1014.
[0085] The first closure element 1012 includes a pair of spaced-apart webs
1020, 1022 that extend generally outwardly from a base portion 1016. In this
embodiment, the first web 1020 of the pair includes a plurality of spaced
rounded
protrusions 1024, each of which projects outwardly from the first web 1020.
The
profile configuration also defines a plurality of spaced depressions 1025 in
the spaces
between the protrusions. Likewise, the second web 1022 includes spaced rounded
protrusions 1026, which extend outwardly from the second web 1022. The profile
configuration of the second web 1022 similarly defines a plurality of spaced
depressions 1027 intermediate to the protrusions. While the webs are shown
with three
protrusions and corresponding depressions, other numbers of protrusions and
depressions may alternatively be utilized, such as, two protrusions and
depressions, or
four protrusions and depressions, or five or more protrusions and depressions.
The
protrusions are similar to barbs.
[0086] The second closure element 1014 is similar to the first closure element
1012. The second closure element 1014 includes a pair of spaced-apart webs
1036,
1038 that extend generally outwardly from a base portion 1018. In this
embodiment,
the-first web 1036 of the pair includes a plurality of spaced rounded
protrusions 1040,
each of which projects outwardly from the first web 1036. The profile
configuration
also defines a plurality of spaced depressions 1044 in the spaces between the
protrusions. Likewise, the second web 1,038 includes spaced rounded
protrusions 1046,
which extend outwardly from the second web 1038. The profile configuration of
the
second web 1038 similarly defines a plurality of spaced depressions 1050
intermediate
to the protrusions. While the webs are shown with three protrusions and
corresponding
depressions, other numbers of protrusions and depressions may alternatively be
utilized,
such as, two protrusions and depressions, or four protrusions and depressions,
or five or
more protrusions and depressions. The protrusions are similar to barbs.
23
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[0087] The second closure element 1014 also includes a pair of guide members
1032, 1034. As noted above, the guide members 1032, 1034 are spaced laterally
from
the webs 1036, 1038, respectively. The first closure element 1012 includes a
fin 1052
extending from the base 1016 and the second closure element 1014 includes two
fins
1060, 1062 extending from the base 1018. The fins 1052, 1060, 1062 may be
included
to maintain the structural integrity and facilitate the extrusion of the
closure elements. .
The closure elements 1012, 1014 may include one, two, three or more fins as
may be
desired.
[0088] In order to effectuate closure of the fastening device 1010 shown in
Fig.
22, the opposed closure elements 1012 and 1014 are compressed in a direction
substantially normal to the plane of the respective. base portions 1016, 1018.
The
closure elements are thereby urged into contacting relation as the opposed
webs 1020,
1022 abut against the respective webs 1036, 1038. The webs 1036, 1038 flex
inwardly
to permit intermittent engagement of the protrusions with the other
protrusions and
intermittent engagement of the protrusions with the depressions. At the same
time, the
respective webs 1020, 1022 are urged outwardly to permit intermittent
engagement of
the protrusions with the other protrusions and intermittent engagement of the
protrusions with the depressions. This arrangement likewise provides an
intermittent,
ratcheting engagement that is readily perceptible to the user. The user
likewise
perceives such intermittent engagement when the closure elements are
deoccluding.
[0089] Fig. 23 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. In
this
embodiment, a fastening device 1110 includes outer webs with a barbed surface
which
are disposed at an angle to the base portion. The fastening device 1110
includes a first
closure element 1112 and a second closure element 1114. The first closure
element
1112 includes inner webs 1120, 1122 and a base 1116 which are similar to webs
120,
122 and Base 116 in Fig. 6. The first closure element 1112 also includes outer
webs
1132, 1134 which are disposed at an angle to the base portion 1116. The outer
webs
1132, 1134 can be oriented relative to said base in the range of 30-60 degrees
with the
angle of 45 degrees preferred. In Fig. 23, the outer webs 1132, 1134 are
oriented
24
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WO 2005/108226 PCT/US2005/012501
relative to the base at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. The outer webs
1132, 1134
include barbed surfaces 1140, 1146. While this embodiment employs surfaces
1140,
1146, other embodiments may use other surfaces, such as surfaces 340, 346 in
Figs.
14-15 or surfaces 440, 446 in Fig. 16.
[0090] The second closure element 1114 includes inner webs 1121, 1123 and a
base 1117 which are similar to webs 20, 22 and base 16 in Fig. 2. The second
closure
element l 114 also includes outer webs 1133, 1135 which are disposed at an
angle to the
base portion 1117. The outer webs 1133, .1135 can be oriented relative to said
base in
the range of 30-60 degrees with the angle of 45 degrees preferred. In Fig. 23,
the outer
webs 1133, 1135 are oriented relative to the base at an angle of approximately
45
degrees. The outer webs 1133, 1135 include barbed surfaces 1141, 1145. The
barbed
surface may have any configuration which will appropriately engage the
corresponding
web.
[0091] ~ In this embodiment, the barbed surface includes triangular
protrusions.
The triangular protrusions are designed to control the magnitude of the
tactile sensation
both during opening and.closing of the closure device. Specifically, the faces
of the
triangular protrusions which contact during occlusion are at an angle which
will create
a strong tactile sensation during occlusion. The faces of the triangular
protrusions
which contact during deocclusion are substantially vertical which will create
a reduced
or mild tactile sensation during occlusion. The angle of the faces can be
changed to
achieve the desired results.
[0092] The fastening device 1110 is shown in the occluded position in Fig. 23.
Compression forces are applied to the closure elements 1112, 1114 and the webs
are
urged into contact with each other. The inner webs engage as noted above with
respect
to Figs. 14-16. The outer webs flex as the barbed surface of one web 1134,
1135 engage
the barbed surface of the other web 1132, 1133. This action permits
intermittent
ratcheting engagement in an interdigitating fashion. Accordingly, a ratcheting
engagement is perceptible to the user as the closure elements are urged
together in an
interdigitating fashion. In addition, this manner of ratcheting engagement may
generate
CA 02562663 2006-10-12
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an audible sound perceptible to the user during the closure operation. The
ratcheting
feel may be perceived by the user when the closure elements are deoccluding.
[0093] Fig. 24 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. In
this
embodiW ent, the fastening device includes inner webs with barbed surfaces and
outer
webs with barbed surfaces. The fastening device 1210.includes a first closure
element
1212 and a second closure element 1214. The first closure element 1212
includes inner
webs 1220, 1222 and a base 1216 which are similar to webs 120, 122 and base
116 in
Fig. 9B. While this embodiment employs webs 1220, 1222, other embodiments may
use other webs, such as, the webs in Figs. 2-9A, 10-13, and 17-22. The first
closure
element 1212 also includes outer webs 1232, 1234 which are similar to webs
1132,
1134 in Fig. 23.
[0094] The second closure element 1214 includes inner webs 1236, 1238 and a
base 1218 which are similar to webs 136, 138 and base 118 in Fig. 9B. While
this
embodiment employs webs 1220, 1222, other embodiments may use other webs, such
as, the webs in Figs. 2-9A, 10-13, and 17-22. The second closure element 1214
also
includes outer webs 1233, 1235 which are similar to webs 1133, 1135 in Fig.
23.
(0095] The fastening device 1210 is shown in the occluded position in Fig. 24.
Compression forces are applied to the closure elements 1212, 1214 and the webs
are
urged into contact with each other. The inner webs engage as noted above with
respect
to Figs. 6-9A and especially Fig. 9B. The outer webs engage as noted above for
Fig. 23.
The ratcheting engagement of the inner webs and outer webs is perceptible to
the user
as the closure elements are urged together in an interdigitating fashion. In
addition, this
maser of ratcheting engagement may generate an audible sound perceptible to
the user
during a closure operation. The ratcheting feel may be perceived by the user
when the
closure elements are deoccluding.
(0096] Fig. 25 illustrates another embodiment of the invention. In this
embodiment, the fastening device includes inner webs with barbed surfaces and
a
barbed surface on the base portion of one of the closure elements. The
fastening device
1310 includes a first closure element 1312 and a second closure element 1314.
The first
26
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closure element 1312 includes inner webs 1320, 1322 and a base 1316 which are
similar
to webs 1220, 1222 and base 1216 in Fig. 24. While this embodiment employs
webs
1320, 1322, other embodiments may use other webs, such as, the webs in Figs. 2-
13 and
17-22. The first closure element 1212 includes a barbed surface 1340, 1346 on
the base
which are similar to surfaces 440, 446 in Fig. 16. While this embodiment
employs
barbed surfaces 1340, 1346, other embodiments may use other surfaces, such as,
surfaces 340, 346 in Figs. 14 and 15. .
[0097] The second closure element 1314 includes inner webs 1336, 1338 and a
base 1318 which are similar to webs 1236, 1238 and base 1218 in Fig. 24. While
this
embodiment employs webs 1336, 1338, other embodiments may use other webs, such
as, the webs in Figs. 2-13 and 17-22. The second closure element 1314 also
includes
outer webs 1332, 1334 which are similar to webs 432, 434 in Fig. 16.
[0098] The fastening device 1010 is shown in the occluded position in Fig. 25.
Compression forces are applied to the closure elements 1312, 1314 and the webs
are
urged into contact with each other. The inner webs engaged as noted above with
respect
to Fig. 24. The outer webs engage as noted above for Fig. 16. The ratcheting
engagement of the inner webs and the outer webs is perceptible to the user as
the closure
elements are urged together in an interdigitating fashion. In addition, this
manner of
ratcheting engagement may generate an audible sound perceptible to the user
during a
closure operation. The ratcheting feel may be perceived by the user when the
closure
elements are deoccluding.
[0099] The closure fastening devices of this invention are preferably formed
from thermoplastic materials such as high, medium or low density polyethylene
or from
other resins. Such fastening devices can readily be manufactured by known
methods
such as by extrusion, by the use of molds or other known methods of producing
such
devices. They can be manufactured as a strip for later attachment to a plastic
film or
they can be formed integral with the film. In the instance where formed by
extrusion,
the closure fastening devices may be extruded with or without flange portions
on one
27
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or both of the closure elements depending on. the particular manufacturing
operations
utilized.
[00100] There are various advantages to the fastening device according to the
present invention. For example, the barbed arrangement provides an enhanced
feel to
the user. Furthermore, the present invention provides an enhanced feel with an
arrangement that provides various points of occlusion. In addition, the
invention, when
utilized in an arrangement comprising multiple barbs, may provide step-wise
color
enhancement to provide various degrees of visual indication. In particular,
the user may
perceive different shades of color change depending on the level of occlusion
of the'
barbs with corresponding hooks when looking at the fastening device from the
side.
[00101 ] Accordingly, a closure fastening device that includes a first closure
element with at least one barbed surface and a second closure element with a
complementary mating surface that provides intermittent ratcheting engagement
with
the barbed surface that meets the aforestated objectives has been described.
In this way,
the user perceives a tactile feel as the closure elements are engaged. It will
be apparent
to those skilled in the art that a number of modifications can be made to the
invention
disclosed, particularly by those having the benefit of the foregoing
teachings, without
departing from the spirit of these principles. Accordingly, it is intended
that the
invention be limited only by the scope of the appended claims .
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