Apparel Fastener

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 18/217,974 (filed Jul. 3, 2023), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63/358,414 (filed Jul. 5, 2022), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Fasteners are used in various garments (e.g., clothing, belts, footwear, etc.) and equipment (e.g., backpacks, duffle bags, etc.) to connect two or more portions together. For example, fasteners can be used to connect portions (e.g., straps) of a support garment, connect ends of belt, secure a footwear article, and the like. Operating some types of fasteners can present challenges. For example, some fasteners are difficult to operate or manipulate for users with limited dexterity and/or can be difficult to operate single-handedly. In addition, some fasteners can be uncomfortable to a wearer, such as when the fastener includes edges or protuberances that can rub, provide pressure against, or otherwise irritate the wearer's skin.

This detailed description is related to a fastener that can be used with various apparel and that can be easier to operate and can be less likely to create discomfort to a wearer. In at least some examples, the fastener includes a hook, which can be connected to a first portion of the article (e.g., support garment such as a bra), and a receiver, which can be connected to a second portion of the article. The hook can be releasably connected to the receiver to selectively secure the first portion of the article to the second portion of the article. The receiver can include various elements, and in one example, the receiver includes a slot that can receive, at various angles and orientations, a bend of the hook. In addition, receiver can include a cross bar (e.g., anchor bar) that mates with the bend of the hook to retain the hook in a secure position with relatively limited side-to-side movement, while still allowing the hook to pivot relative to the receiver (e.g., to conform to the contour of a wearer's body). As such, the fastener can be operated with less precision (when engaging the hook to the receiver) while still providing a stable connection that easily hinges to conform with the wearer's body and movement.

In contrast to subject matter of the present disclosure, conventional fasteners can require, when operating the fastener, more precise alignment and manipulation between a first fastener component and a second fastener component. In addition, conventional fasteners can sometimes include a gate or other latch that closes the gape of a hook or other fastener component and must be opened or otherwise temporarily moved in order to connect the fastener. Conventional fasteners can also include a barrel or other type of threaded connection that must be rotatably screwed/unscrewed for operation. These and other instances of conventional fasteners can make single-handed operation and/or operation by users with limited dexterity very difficult. Furthermore, conventional fasteners can sometimes be bulky and/or include features that can dig into a wearer or otherwise cause discomfort.

Additional examples of the present disclosure are now described and are related to a fastener that can be used to connect two textile portions together, such as two textile portions of a garment (e.g., support garment, upper-body garment, lower-body garment, headwear, footwear, etc.) and/or equipment (e.g., backpack, duffle bag, etc.). In examples, the fastener includes a receiver and a hook, and the receiver is connected to a first textile portion, while the hook is connected to a second textile portion. The hook and receiver are releasably connectable to connect or disconnect the textile portions. In some instances, a length of one or more of the textile portions can be slidably adjusted relative to the fastener in order to adjust relatively positioning (e.g., to increase or decrease a size associated with a garment or a strap length associated with a bag).

The receiver can include various features for mating with the hook. For example, the receiver can include a slot for receiving a portion (e.g., bend) of the hook. In addition, the receiver can include a first cross bar (e.g., anchor bar) that forms a side of the slot and that is configured to releasably connect with the bend. In at least some examples, the slot is configured such that the hook can pass through the slot at different angle angles and orientations, which can ease operating the fastener by allowing for less precise alignment when connecting and/or disconnecting the hook and receiver. For example, the slot can include a first width that is farther away from the anchor bar and a second width that is closer to the anchor bar, the second width being shorter than the first width. As such, the slot can taper from a wider portion farther from the anchor bar to a narrower portion closer to the anchor bar, and the tapering sides can operate to funnel the bend to a securely seated connecting position on the anchor bar. As a result, the bend of the hook can be inserted into slot at various angles and orientations, and when moved to engage the anchor bar, the bend of the hook is directed to a secure location on the anchor bar by the tapering sides of the slot operating as guide rails.

The receiver can include other elements as well. For example, the receiver can include a second cross bar for engaging a strap (e.g., connected to, or forming part of, the first textile portion), which can be slidably adjusted relative to the receiver and the second cross bar in order to adjust a length of the strap. In addition, the receiver can include standoff portions that protrude from one side of the receiver. For example, the standoff portions can space the receiver apart from an underlying surface (e.g., a portion of a garment or a bag), such that the receiver is easier to grab for operation (as compared to if the receiver were lying flat against the underlying surface). In some examples, the standoff portions can form a channel that receives a portion of the strap, and in this sense, the standoff portions can operate as guide rails on either side of the strap for maintaining relative positioning between the strap and receiver (e.g., maintain the strap beneath the receiver and/or maintain the receiver adjacent the strap).

The hook can include various elements for mating with the receiver. For example, the hook can include a bend (e.g., for engaging the anchor bar of the receiver) and a shank, which can be used to affix the hook to the second textile portion and to handle or manipulate the hook. The shank can include various configurations (e.g., shapes, sizes, etc.), and in some examples, the shank is relatively flat and is relatively broad, such that the body of the shank is relatively wide, as compared to its thickness. In examples, the bend can include various elements for engaging the anchor bar. For example, the bend can include a rolled edge that is open at the terminal end to partially enclose a throat of the hook and form a gape, which provides a passageway to the throat. In examples, the throat and the gape are dimensioned to engage the anchor bar in a manner that allows for easier fastener operation and smooth fastener adjustment or movement to conform to wearer body shape and/or motion. For example, a gape width can be smaller than the anchor bar and a throat width can be larger than the anchor bar. As such, when the bend is moved onto the anchor bar, the anchor bar can frictionally engage the terminal end of the bend, and the bend can elastically deflect to an open position, which allows the anchor bar to pass into the throat. In examples, the width of the throat is configured to allow the hook to rotate relative to the anchor bar. In this sense, the bend and the anchor bar can include, when connecting or disconnecting, an interference fit (e.g., which flexes the bend open), and when the in a connected state, a clearance fit or a transition fit (e.g., which allows the parts to rotate relative to one another).

In examples, the hook and receiver is easy to use and enables a wearer to releasably mate the two components using, for example, one hand. As such, the fastener can be usable by people with disabilities and/or people whose other hand may be engaged in other activities such as, for example, supporting a baby or a breast-milk pump. In some instances, once the hook and receiver are connected, the relative lengths of the textile portions (e.g., the amount of support provided by the first and/or second textile portions) can be modified by pulling on a free first end of the strap connected to the receiver. This operation can also be carried out using, for example, one hand. The ability to provide an increased level of support when the garment is in the form of, for example, a nursing bra enables the bra to also be used for athletic activities, which can eliminate the need for a wearer to change from a nursing bra to an athletic bra when exercising. When the increased level of support is no longer needed, the strap can be manipulated to modify the length to provide desired support. In at least some examples, adjusting the relative lengths of the textile portions can modify a cup size of a support garment. For instance, in some examples it can be useful to provide a larger cup size when a wearer is pregnant, has recently given birth, and/or is nursing an infant, and after the infant is born and the wearer is no longer nursing an infant or pumping breast milk, it can sometimes be useful to provide a smaller cup size. According to examples of the present disclosure, the cup size can be modified by changing the relative lengths of the textile portions.

Some examples described herein are in the context of bras, including a nursing bra or a bra configured for breast-milk pumping. In other examples, subject matter of this disclosure can include a fastener used with other types of garments or equipment. For example, the fastener can be used at the waistband of a lower-body garment to quickly couple textile elements together and to quickly adjust the circumferential diameter of the waistband. When incorporated into an article of footwear such as an upper of a shoe, the fastener can be used to adjust the level of support across, for example, an instep region of the upper. The fastener can also be used as part of an underband of a bra to join two portions of the underband together and adjust the circumferential tension of the underband. These are just a few examples, and it is contemplated herein that the fastener can be incorporated into any type of garment for which a quick and easy coupling and adjustment of support is desired. In addition, the fastener can be incorporated into various other articles, such as bags (e.g., backpacks, duffle bags, etc.).

As used herein, the term “garment” means any article that may be worn by a wearer and can also be referred to as a “wearable article.” Example wearable articles include support garments including bras and nursing bras, upper-body garments such as tops, pullovers, hoodies, jacket/coats, and the like, lower-body garments such as shorts, capris, leggings, pants, and the like, articles of headwear such as hats, caps, sweatbands, and the like, and articles of footwear including athletic shoes. The fastener can also be used in equipment such as backpacks, luggage, duffle bags, and the like.

Some positional terms might be used when describing the subject matter of this disclosure with the assumption that a subject item is being worn as intended by a wearer standing upright. For example, the term “inner” or “inward” can mean a layer or structure that is positioned closer to a body surface of a wearer as compared to other layers or structures of the garment. The term “outer” means a layer or structure that is positioned external to other layers or structures of the garment. In example aspects, an inner layer may be an innermost layer and an outer layer may be an outermost layer of the garment. An upper part of the garment would be located closer to a head area of a wearer compared to a lower part of the garment.

The term “support garment” when used herein refers to an upper-body garment primarily configured to provide support to a wearer's breasts. As such, the support garment can be in the form of a bra, including a nursing bra, pumping bra, and/or athletic bra, a tank top, an athletic top, a swimsuit top, and the like. When the garment is in the form of a support garment or bra, the term “breast-covering portion” means the portion of the support garment configured to cover a wearer's breast. As such, the breast-covering portion generally extends from a top part (e.g., near the wearer's clavicle) to a lower part (e.g., the wearer's inframammary fold) of each of the wearer's breasts and from a medial edge (e.g., near the wearer's sternum) to a lateral edge (e.g., near the wearer's axilla) of each of the wearer's breasts. The term “apex region” when referring to the support garment generally means the area where a shoulder strap extends from or is joined to the breast-covering portion or other portions of the support garment. The term “underband” when used in relation to, for instance, a bra refers to the portion of the bra that forms a lower margin of at least the front portion of the bra. The underband is configured to encircle the torso area of a wearer and may include a separate pattern piece or may include an integral extension of the front portion.

The term “strap” generally means an element having a greater length than width. In some examples, a strap includes at least some segment(s) along the length with parallel longitudinal side edges. In some examples, a strap can include some segments (e.g., end portions) with tapering longitudinal side edges (e.g., taper in width as the strap extends to a terminal end). The strap can be formed of textile elements (knit, woven, braided, nonwoven, and the like) or non-textile elements. In example aspects, the strap may be formed of a no-stretch or low-stretch material. A no-stretch or low-stretch material generally does not have inherent stretch properties (mechanical or elastic) in response to a tensioning force and thus the length and/or width of the material remains substantially unchanged when subject to the tensioning forces below the material's breaking/tearing point. For example, the strap may undergo a change of length from about 0% of resting length to about 20% of resting length in response to a tensioning force. The no-stretch or low-stretch material may include tightly knit, woven, or braided constructions that do not utilize elastic yarns; non-elastomeric films; knit, woven, nonwoven, or braided constructions that include a surface treatment to limit stretch, and the like.

As used herein, the term “about” means +/−10% of a subject term (e.g., quantity or other qualitative value). In addition, in some examples, size (e.g., lengths or widths) can be measured using a precision caliper.

The term “fixedly coupled” or “fixedly secured” generally means some type of permanent attachment through use of one or more of stitching, bonding, adhesives, welding, and the like. The term “slidably coupled” when referring to, for example, the receiver and a strap, means that the receiver can be moved (e.g., slid) along a length of the strap while maintaining the integrity of both the receiver and the strap. The term “releasably mated” or “releasably connected” (e.g., when referring to the relationship between the hook and receiver) means that the components can be repeatedly mated (i.e., joined together) and unmated without damaging either of the components.

Referring now to, according to an example, a support garmentis depicted, which includes a front portion, as well as an underband, a first shoulder strap, and a second shoulder strap. In examples, the first should strapand the second shoulder strapcan support the support garmenton the wearer's shoulders, and the underbandcan at least partially circumscribe a torso of the wearer. In examples, the support garmentcan include a first textile portion and a second textile portion that are releasably connected. For example, the support garmentcan include a first breast covering portionthat is releasably connected to the first shoulder strapand can include a second breast covering portionthat is releasably connected to the second shoulder strap. That is,depicts the first breast covering portiondisconnected or released from the first shoulder strapand depicts the second breast covering portiondisconnected from the second shoulder strap, whereasdepicts the breast covering portionsandconnected to the respective shoulder strapand. In examples, the first breast covering portionand the second breast covering portioncan, when disconnected from a respective shoulder strap, allow for positioning of a breast-milk pump (or other object, such as a pad, protective element, prosthetic, etc.) and/or a nursing infant. In addition, when connected, the breast covering portionsandcan help retain a breast-milk pump or other object in position and/or provide a desired amount of support. In examples of the present disclosure, the support garmentdepicts a bra, and in other examples the support garmentmay include a variety of other types of support garments that include the same or similar elements.

In examples of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the support garment(e.g., the front portion) can include a multilayer structure. For instance the front portioncan include a first layer(e.g., first breast-covering layer including the first breast covering portionand the second breast covering portion) and a second layer(e.g., second breast-covering layer). The first layercan also be described as an outer layer or an exterior layer, and the second layercan be described as an inner layer or interior layer (e.g., relative to the first layer). For example, when the support garmentis worn, at least a portion of the second layercan be positioned closer to the wearer than the first layerand/or may be positioned between the first layerand the wearer.

In examples, the multilayer structure may contribute to various operations and features of the support garment. For example, in at least some instances, an object can be retained between the first layerand the second layer, such as a breast pump, breast prosthetic, pad, protective article, and the like. In this sense, one or more compartments (e.g., interlayer compartments) can be located between the first and second layersand. In addition, a multilayer structure may provide an ability to incorporate into the support garmentdifferent materials having different properties. For example, the first layerand the second layermay be constructed of different materials, the combination of which may provide different properties of the support garment(e.g., breathability, permeability, support, comfort, softness, etc.). Examples of materials may include, but are not limited to, knit textiles, woven textiles, non-woven textiles, meshes, spacer meshes, foam sheets/padding, and the like.

Furthermore, the second layercan include features configured for operability in various contexts. For instance, the second layercan include openingsand, which can correspond with a shape associated with a breast pump (e.g., a hands-free breast pump), such as a shape that corresponds with at least a part of a flange or shield of the breast pump. For instance, at least a portion of the flange may be inserted through either of the openingsandand positioned between the inner surface of the second layerand the wearer's skin surface. In addition, if the support garment is used for nursing an infant, the opening can be configured to accommodate an infant's mouth and portions of the infant's face. In other examples, the second layercan include a relatively open structure (e.g., less of a material panel) with one or more trim pieces, straps, or other material strips, that connect the shoulder strapsandto the underbandand help retain the shoulder strapsand/oron the wearer when a breast covering portion of the first layeris disconnected.

The support garmentcan include other features as well. For example, the support garment may include a material extension (e.g., a gusset or other panel structure) secured near a central region (e.g., bridge or other portion near a midline and between breast-covering portions) of the support garmentthat may form a divider between the interlayer compartments. In some examples, the material extension may help retain the object in position and reduce the likelihood that the object might shift positions while contained in the interlayer compartment.

depicts the first breast covering portionconnected to the first shoulder strapand depicts the second breast covering portionconnected to the second shoulder strap. The first and second breast covering portionsandcan be connected to the shoulder strapsandin various contexts, such as when the support garmentis retaining an object (e.g., breast-milk pump) and/or when the wearer is engaging in physical activity and/or normal activity. As such, it can be desirable to adjust an amount of support provided by the first breast covering portionand the second breast covering portion, such as to help seat, and/or reduce shifting of, the breast-milk pump; to retain an object (e.g., pad, prosthetic, protective element, etc.) in position; and/or to tailor the support to a given activity level (e.g., more support might be useful for higher levels of activity and less support might be beneficial for lower activity levels).

Various assemblies can operate to releasably connect a breast covering portion to a shoulder strap. In accordance with examples of the present disclosure, a fastener is provided that can be used with various apparel and that can be easier to operate and can be less likely to create discomfort to a wearer. In at least some examples, the fastener is configured for one-handed operation (e.g., to connect, disconnect, and/or adjust an amount of support), such as when a wearer is also holding an infant and/or positioning a breast-milk pump. In addition, a fastener of the present disclosure can, in some instances, provide for easier (e.g., one-handed) adjustment of a textile or strap coupled to the fastener (e.g., to adjust an amount of support provided by the support garment).includes, in accordance with an example, a reference callout to, which depicts an enlarged view of an example assembly that can connect the breast covering portionto the shoulder strap.

Referring to,depicts a fastening assembly, which includes a first textile portion, a second textile portion, and a fastenerreleasably connecting the first textile portionto the second textile portion. In examples, the first textile portioncan include a strap connected to a breast covering portion, and the second textile portioncan be connected to a shoulder strap. In some examples, the first textile portionand the second textile portioncan be connected to other types of garments or bags. In addition, the fastenercan include a receiverconnected to the first textile portionand a hookconnected to the second textile portion. The hookcan be releasably mated to the receiverto releasably connect the first textile portionto the second textile portion. For example,depicts, in state “A,” the hookconnected to the receiver; in state “B,” the hookand the receiverdisconnected; and the arrow “C” indicates the hookand the receiverare configured to be repeatedly connected and disconnected without damaging their structural integrity.

In examples, the receiverand/or the hookcan include various features. For example, the receivercan include a slotfor receiving a portion of the hook. In addition, the receiver can include a first cross bar(e.g., anchor bar) that forms a side of the slotand that is configured to releasably connect with the hook. Further, in at least some examples, the hookincludes a bendand shank. The bendcan include, among other things, a terminal edgethat is folded back over the hookan is spaced apart from an opposing part of the hookto form a gape, which provides a passageway for the anchor barto mate in the throat of the hook.

In at least some examples, the slotis configured such that the hookcan pass through the slot at different angles and orientations, while still achieving an aligned connection for the fastener, which can ease operating the fastener by allowing for less precise alignment when connecting and/or disconnecting the hook and receiver. These features can ease operation when, for example, the user is attempting to connect/disconnect with one hand (e.g., when the other hand is holding an infant or supporting a breast-milk pump) and/or the user has limited dexterity. For example, referring to, the slotcan include a first widththat is farther away from the anchor barand a second widththat is closer to the anchor bar, the second widthbeing shorter than the first width. In some examples, the second widthcan be similar to a length of the anchor bar(e.g., a length extending from one side of the receiverto the opposite side of the receiver). In addition, the slotcan include a first side framethat forms a first side or perimeter around a first side of the slotand a second side framethat is generally opposite the first side frameand that forms a second side or perimeter around a second side of the slot. In examples, the first side frameand the second side framecan taper towards one another as each extends towards the anchor bar. As such, the slotcan taper from a wider portion farther from the anchor barto a narrower portion closer to the anchor bar.

As depicted in, when connecting the fastener, the hookcan include different orientations relative to the receiver. For example, as depicted by reference view “D” a midlineof the anchor bar can be aligned with a midpointof the hook, and the hookcan include little or no rotation (e.g., relative to an axis extending perpendicular to the page). In addition, as depicted in view D, the hookcan include a width(e.g., in a transverse cross section), which can be less than the widththat is associated with the length of the anchor bar. In another example, as depicted by reference view “E,” the midpointof the hookcan be laterally shifted relative to the midlineof the receiver. In another example, as depicted by reference view “F,” the midpointof the hookcan be aligned with the midlineof the receiver, but the hookmay be rotated (e.g., on an axis extending into or perpendicular to the page) relative to the anchor bar. In a further example, as depicted by reference view “G,” the midpointcan be misaligned with the midline, and the hookcan be rotated. Reference views D, E, F, and G are merely examples, and in other instances, the hookcan include other orientations relative to the anchor bar. In examples of the present disclosure, the tapering sidesandcan operate to funnel the hookto a securely seated connecting position (e.g., view “H”) on the anchor bar. As a result, the bend of the hookcan be inserted into slot at various angles and orientations, and when moved to engage the anchor bar, the bend of the hookis directed to an aligned position on the anchor barby the tapering sidesandof the slotoperating as guide rails. Although view H depicts the midlinepassing through the midpoint, in other examples, the connection between the hookand the receivercan still be deemed “aligned,” if the distance between the midlineand theis in a range between about 1% and 5% of the width.

Referring now to, enlarged views of the receiverare shown, in accordance with examples of this disclosure. As previously described the receiverincludes the slotand the anchor bar. In examples, the anchor barincludes a length, which can be similar to the width, and can be based on the end points of the anchor barrelative to the slot(e.g., where the anchor bartransitions to the side framesand. The lengthcan vary, and in one example, the length is between about 7 mm and about 13 mm, or about 8.5 mm and about 11.5 mm, or about 10.2 mm. In addition, the anchor barcan include a widththat extends between a terminal end sideof the anchor barand a slot sidethat faces towards the slot. The widthcan vary, and in one example, the width is between about 1.5 mm and about 2.5 mm, or about 1.75 mm and about 2.25 mm, or about 1.9 mm. In one example, the lengthis about 4.5× to 5.5× the size of the width. These are examples of sizes and dimensions in accordance with examples, and in other instances, the relative sizes can be smaller or larger than these examples ranges and dimensions. In addition, in some examples, the various parts of the hook and the receiver can be scaled according to a desired use or application.

In some examples, the receiverincludes a second slotand a third slotthat are configured to receive a portion of a strap (e.g., textile portion). In addition, the receivercan include a second cross barwith ridges. In examples, a strap (e.g.,) can pass through the second and third slotsandand around the second cross barto provide a slidably adjustable connection between the receiverand the strap. For example, referring to, an endof the strapcan be threaded through the slotsandand around the second cross bar(some of which are obscured from view by the strap). In examples, a lengthof the straprelative to the receivercan be adjusted by pulling on the endor by feeding the free portion of the strap back through the receiver. For example, the reference view “I” represents the relative positioning and the length, which is shorter than the length. When the strapis connected to a breast covering portion, then adjusting the strapin this manner (e.g., by pulling on the endand reducing the length) can increase the amount of support provided by the breast covering portion. Vice versa, feeding the strapback through the receivercan reduce the amount of support. In addition to adjusting an amount of support, adjusting the strap in this manner can adjust a cup size of the breast covering portion. For instance, in some examples it can be useful to provide a larger cup size when a wearer is pregnant, has recently given birth, and/or is nursing an infant, and after the infant is born and the wearer is no longer nursing an infant or pumping breast milk, it can sometimes be useful to provide a smaller cup size. According to examples of the present disclosure, the cup size can be modified by changing the relative lengths of the textile portions. In at least some examples, the ridgescan frictionally engage the strapto help retain the strap in a desired position.

In at least some examples, the receivercan include additional elements. For example, the receivercan include one or more protrusions or standoffs(e.g.,) that protrude from the receiverand that are configured to space the receiverapart from an underlying surface (e.g., the wearer or a garment of the wearer) by a distance. The distancecan vary, and in one example, the distanceis between about 0.75 mm and about 1.25 mm, or about 0.90 mm and about 1.1 mm. In some examples, the standoffscan enable the receiver to be grasped more easily by providing the space between the receiverand the underlying surface. In addition, the receivercan include a first standoffand a second standoff, which are spaced apart from one another on opposing sides of the receiverand which form sides of a channelpositioned between the standoffsand. In at least some examples, the channelis configured to receive at least a portion of the strap. As such, nesting at least a portion of the strapin the channelcan contribute to a lower profile of the assembly. In addition, the nesting relationship can help to maintain a position of the receiver relative to the strap (e.g., the receiver can remain adjacent the strap).

Referring now to, at least some examples associated with the hookare provided. The hookincludes the bendand the shank. In examples, the shankcan be affixed to a textile portion. For example, the shankcan be affixed (e.g., bonded, stitched, etc.) within a tubular textile sleeve and/or to a strap. In addition, the shankcan be configured to provide a handle for grasping the hook and operating the hookand/or the fastener.

In examples, the bendincludes a terminal edgeof the hookthat is curved and/or that curls back onto itself. In some instances, when in use or installed on a garment, the bendand the terminal edgecan face or be oriented away from the wearer. In at least some examples, this can orient the opening of the gape outwards and allow the fastener to be operated by maneuvering the receiver onto the bend. In examples, the terminal edgeis spaced apart from the opposing sideof the hook, such that the bendpartially encloses a throatof the hookand a gapeextends between the terminal edgeand the opposing side. The gapecan provide a passageway to the throat. In addition,includes a reference line, which is aligned with an inner facing surface of the broad, flat shank(e.g., the inner facing side, such as when the hookis affixed to a garment).also includes an approximate midpointof the throat, the midpointbeing approximately midway between the front or outer side of the bendand the back or inner side of the bend(e.g., outer and inner being based on when the hookis affixed to a garment). In at least some examples, the midpointis substantially aligned with the reference lineand/or is positioned further inward than the reference line(e.g., to the right based on the cross section of). In some examples, the midpointbeing at least even with or further inward than the reference linecan provide a relatively low profile fastener, since the receiver, when connected to the bendis also retained closer to the garment (as compared to other fasteners in which the bend extends further away from the garment).

In examples, the throatand the gapeare dimensioned to engage the anchor barin a manner that allows for easier fastener operation and smooth fastener adjustment or movement to conform to wearer body shape and/or motion. For example, referring toa reference view is provided showing a portion of the receiver, including the anchor barand the width, and a portion of the bend. As depicted in, the gapecan include a gape width, and the throatcan include a throat width. In at least some examples, the gape widthcan be smaller than the anchor bar (e.g., smaller than the width). Further, in at least some examples, the throat widthcan be larger than the anchor bar (e.g., larger than the width). As such, when the bendand the anchor barare moved into engagement, the anchor barcan frictionally engage the terminal edgeof the bend(e.g., a temporary interference fit), and the bendcan temporarily elastically deflect to an open position, which allows the anchor barto pass into the throat.

In at least some examples, the bendcan include a bend segmentthat is generally opposite the gapeand that elastically hinges to open the gapefor allowing passage of the anchor bar. In addition, in some instances, the elastic opening and closing action of the bend can create feedback to the operator that the fastener has been engaged. For example, engagement of the anchor barinto the bendcan create an audible “click” and/or can provide a tactile feedback to the operator. In at least some examples, the throat widthis configured to allow the hookto rotate relative to the anchor bar. For example, the throat widthcan be similar to, or slightly larger than, the width, which can provide sufficient clearance to allow the hookto rotate relative to the anchor bar. In at least some examples, the engagement between the anchor barand the bendcan include a clearance fit or a transition fit.

In at least some examples, the receiverand/or the hookcan include features to assist with guiding the anchor barinto the gape. For instance, in some examples the edgecan include a rounded distal endthat flares wider than the gapeas the surface of the edgeextends away from the gape, which can provide a wider insertion mouth to receive the anchor barand direct the anchor barinto the gape. In addition, the anchor barcan include one or more faces (e.g.,) that are configured to help guide the anchor barinto the gape (e.g., as opposed to fewer faces with sharper edges that can catch as the anchor baris inserted).

The receiverand the hookcan be constructed of various materials. In at least one example, the receiverand the hookare constructed of a polymer (e.g., thermosetting polymer). In some examples, the receiverand the hookmay be constructed of materials having different material properties. For example, in one example the receivercan be constructed of a material imparting sufficient rigidity to allow the anchor barto be repeatedly connected and disconnected from the hook. In some instances, the hookcan be constructed of a material that imparts flexibility and/or elasticity to allow the bend toto flex open and closed when the anchor barpasses through the gape. In at least some examples, the receiverand the hookcan be constructed of the same material and can be structurally configured to achieve a particular function. For example, a thickness of the anchor barcan be configured to provide sufficient rigidity, and a thickness of the bendat one or more positions can provide an ability to flex.

In at least some examples, the receiverand the hookcan provide a relatively low profile fastener. For example, referring to, the bendof the hook is illustrated, and in some examples, the bendincludes an outer diameter(or other maximum measurement from one external surface on one side of the bend to another external surface on the other side of the bend). In examples, the diametercan be in a range of about 4.25 mm to about 6.25 mm, or about 4.75 mm to about 5.75 mm, or about 5 mm to about 5.50 mm, or about 5.3 mm.

In examples of the present disclosure, the fastenerof the present disclosure can be easily operated, such as by using a single hand or by an operator with limited dexterity. For example, referring to, a sequence of operations are outlined for easy operation of the receiverand the hook.includes, in association with each operation, a pictorial of the fastener(e.g., in cross section) to help illustrate the step. At step, the receiveris aligned relative to the bendof the hook. For example, if the hookis affixed to a shoulder strap of a garment, then the operator can grasp the receiverand lift the receiverto an appropriate height relative to the bendthat will allow the receiverto be lifted onto the hook.

In at least one example, at step, the receivercan be angled relative to the hook. For example, a lower portion of the receivercan be pulled outward and away from the wearer, while an upper portion of the receivercan be oriented towards the hook. Further, at step, the anchor barof the receivercan be moved through the gapeand into the throatof the hook. As described above, the gape width can be smaller than the width of the anchor bar (e.g., smaller than the width of the anchor bar), while the throat width can be larger than the width of the anchor bar. As such, when the bendand the anchor barare moved into engagement, the anchor barcan frictionally engage the terminal edge of the bend, and the bendcan temporarily elastically deflect to an open position, which allows the anchor barto pass into the throat. Then, once the anchor baris fit into the throat, at step, the anchor bar can rotate or pivot relative to the hook to adjust to an underlying contour of the wearer or the garment. In addition, in at least some examples, the anchor barcan be disengaged from the bendby following stepsandin reverse order.

In some examples, the fit between the hook and the receiver can include different types, depending on the stage in the connection process. For example, when the anchor barand the bendare moved into engagement, such that the anchor barfrictionally engages the terminal edge of the bend, the fit can be described as an “interference fit.” In another example, when the anchor baris retained in the throat, and the receiver and the hook can rotate with respect to each other, the fit can be referred to as a “clearance fit” or a “transition fit,” in which enough clearance (relative to the bend) exists around at least part of the anchor barto permit the bendto rotate around the anchor bar.

Referring to, in at least some examples, the fastening assemblycan be incorporated into a pant garment, such as into a waistband of a lower-body garment. The lower-body garmentis shown in the form of a pant, but other configurations such as shorts, leggings, capris, and the like are contemplated herein. The lower-body garmentincludes a waistband areaconfigured to encircle a waist area of the wearer. In example aspects, the fastening systemcan be associated with the waistband area.depicts the assemblyin an un-coupled state, which can be useful when a wearer is donning the lower-body garment. In examples, the fastenerof the fastening assemblycan be connected, such as by executing the operations outlined in, which can effectively couple the first side of the waistband areawith the opposite second side of the waistband area. To tighten the waistband area, a wearer can pull and end of one of the straps, as described with respect to.

depicts yet another example use of the assemblyincorporated into an article of footwearin the form of an upperfor a shoe. The uppermay be formed from a variety of materials including leather, synthetic leather, knit materials, woven materials, braided materials, polymer sheets, rubber, and the like. In example aspects, the article of footwearincludes the assembly, including the first textile portion(e.g., strap), the second textile portion, the receiver, and the hook. In examples, the assemblycan extend across an instep area of the upper(e.g., when in a coupled state) and can be used to secure the upper across the instep and/or adjust a fit of the upper, such as by tightening the strap.

As indicated above, in examples of the present disclosure, the hookcan be coupled to a textile element, such as a strap. For example, the broad, flat shankcan provide an attachment point for the hookto be coupled to the strap. The present disclosure includes examples (e.g.,) of a construction of the hookwith a strap or other textile element, as well as operations or steps that can be carried out to assembly the construction.

Referring to, the hookcan be positioned adjacent to a first textile layerof an article (e.g., a wearable article, bag, etc.). In some examples, the first textile layercan include a base layer of a strap for a support garment (e.g., at least a portion of strap/of the support garment), and the base layer can include a textile layer positioned between the hookand the wearer. That is, the textile layercan be positioned internal or inner relative to the hook.

The first textile layercan include one or more of a variety of different types of textiles, including knit, woven, nonwoven, mesh, spacer textile, spacer mesh, foam padding, films, membranes, and the like. In some examples, the first textile layercan include a single textile layer. In some instances, the first textile layercan include multiple textile layers that are stacked (e.g., a padding layer with a knit layer forming an innermost surface). In some instances, the first textile layercan include a laminate of multiple textile layers.

In some instances, the first textile layercan include two or more textiles panels or pattern piecesandthat are affixed at a seam (e.g., attached by stitching, seam tape, etc.). For example, the textile panelcan be continuous with, or connect to, the an inner layer of a support garment (e.g.,of the support garment). In such examples, the textile panelcan include a mesh. In some instances, the textile panelcan include a portion of the support garment strap that is configured to extends from the front portion of the bra, over the shoulder of the wearer, and to the back portion of the bra. In such examples, the textile panelcan include one or more layers of padding (e.g., foam padding, spacer textile, etc.). In some cases, the one or more layers of padding can include a liner layer that provides an innermost surface of the strap.

In some examples, the hookis positioned such that the shankoverlaps a seam between the textile panelsand. In at least some instances, the hookis coupled to the first layer. For example, a fastener, such stitches, can be affixed through the shankand the first layer, and other fasteners are also contemplated, such as rivets, adhesive bonding, etc. In some examples, the fastener extends through the textile panel. The fastener may not extend through the textile panel

In at least some examples, a second textile layercan be positioned on the side of the hookthat is opposite the first textile layer. The second textile layercan include one or more of a variety of different types of textiles, including knit, woven, nonwoven, mesh, spacer textile, spacer mesh, foam padding, films, membranes, and the like. In some examples, the second textile layercan include a single textile layer. In some instances, the second textile layercan include multiple textile layers that are stacked (e.g., a padding layer with a knit layer forming an innermost surface). In some instances, the second textile layercan include a laminate of multiple textile layers.

The second textile layercan be coupled to the hook. For example, a fastener, such as stitches, can be affixed through the shankand the second textile layer, and other fasteners are also contemplated, such as rivets, adhesive bonding, etc. In some examples, the fastener may not extend through the first textile layer. In other examples, the fastener can extend through the first textile layer.

The second textile layercan be moved (e.g., folded) to cover the fastener, such as indicated by the arrow. In such cases the second textile layercan overlap with at least a portion of the textile panel