Molding of fastening hooks and other devices

US6163939A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Velcro Industries B.V. · NL

Inventors

• Thomas G. Lacey · Derry, US
• George A. Provost · Litchfield, US
• Scott M. Filion · Newmarket, US
• Evangelos Kaparis · Manchester, US
• Clinton Dowd · Goffstown, US
• James Van Stumpf · Goffstown, US
• Mark Condon · Watertown, US
• Samuel W. Pollard · Durham, US
• Stephen C. Jens · Winchester, US
• Peter E. Grulke · Fremont, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 17, 1999
• Grant date: Dec 26, 2000
• Expiry date: Mar 17, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T428/24017
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Methods of forming mold cavities (1) suitable for hook and loop fastening (100), along with effective hook construction and hook and loop fastener products that have an ultrathin cross section (118). Photochemical techniques are employed to form plates (250) that define hook-form mold cavities (1), and, alternatively, chemical etching is employed following preforming of the cavities and machining. Included are hooks having three-dimensional tapers with enhanced loop engaging characteristics. By utilization of special surface finishes and tolerances, hook fasteners, having ultrathin cross sections (118) are realized, that pave the way for practical use of touch fasteners in a wide range of new areas.