FASTENER SYSTEM

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/739,218 filed Jun. 10, 2024 and titled “ONE-HANDED FASTENER AND METHODS THEREOF”, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/638,097, filed Apr. 24, 2024, and titled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ONE-HANDED FASTENER”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/598,273, filed Nov. 13, 2023, and titled “ONE-HANDED FASTENER AND METHODS THEREOF”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/507,036, filed Jun. 8, 2023, and titled “ONE-HANDED FASTENER AND METHODS THEREOF”, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/734,106, filed Dec. 14, 2024, and titled “ASSISTIVE FASTENER SYSTEM 015”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/809,281, filed May 20, 2025, and titled “ASSISTIVE FASTENER SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREOF”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/903,912, filed Oct. 23, 2025, and titled “ASSISTIVE FASTENER SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREOF”, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to a fastener system. More specifically and without limitation, this disclosure relates to a system for fastening substrates together.

OVERVIEW OF THE DISCLOSURE

A significant portion of the population struggles with everyday tasks, including dressing. Individuals may experience limitations due to injury, disease, aging, amputation, or loss of mobility resulting from conditions such as stroke. Such conditions can lead to restricted range of motion, muscle tremors, impaired motor function, and balance difficulties. These symptoms can make it challenging to put on clothing and accessories, including shirts, jackets, pants, shoes, socks, backpacks, and similar items.

Many existing fabric fasteners are difficult to operate for people with limited physical abilities, including reduced dexterity, limited range of motion, or hand tremors. Conventional closures that perform similar functions—such as buttons, snaps, and hook-and-loop fasteners—often require two hands to use or demand above-average single-handed strength or dexterity. Additionally, certain adaptive closures are visually distinguishable as assistive devices, which may cause the wearer to feel self-conscious or visibly categorized as disabled.

Traditional buttons require passing a button through a slit or buttonhole that is typically only slightly larger than the button itself. This action generally requires the coordinated use of two hands or sophisticated single-handed dexterity. Snap fasteners similarly require two hands or above-average single-handed strength to engage and demand different motions to disengage, such as a one-handed ripping action or a two-handed pull-apart motion.

Other common fasteners impose similar limitations, requiring significant dexterity, range of motion, or strength. Magnetic “buttons” consisting of opposing magnets sewn into fabric folds provide easier operation but offer limited fastening security. Such magnetic closures may also detach unintentionally and may inadvertently adhere to external objects, potentially causing wardrobe malfunctions.

Therefore, for all the reasons stated above, and the reasons stated below, there is a need in the art for an improved fastener which can be quickly and efficiently fastened and unfastened by an individual with limited physical abilities. Thus, it is a primary objective of the disclosure to provide a fastener system that improves upon the state of the art.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is safe to operate.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is able to be used with limited motor control.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which has built in alignment support.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is relatively easy to build.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is relatively friendly to build.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which can be built relatively quickly and efficiently.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is easy to operate.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is relatively cost friendly to manufacture.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is relatively easy to integrate into existing products.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is aesthetically appealing.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is robust.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is water resistant.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is relatively inexpensive.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is not easily susceptible to wear and tear.

Another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which has a long useful life.

Yet another objective of the disclosure is to provide a fastener system which is efficient to use and operate.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the specification, figures, and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one or more exemplary arrangements, a fastener system for attaching multiple substrates is presented. In one or more arrangements, the system includes a post, a socket, mounting members operably connected to the post and socket, and portions of substrates configured to be attached to the components of the fastener system. In one or more arrangements, magnetic components of the post and socket facilitate alignment and removable attachment of the post and socket. In one or more arrangements, an inward extending edge of the outer wall of the socket is in approximate parallel alignment with an outward extending edge of the body of the post. In one or more arrangements, the inward extending edge of the outer wall frictionally engages the outward extending edge of the body to prevent lateral pullout of the post from the socket.

In one or more arrangements, the system includes a socket having a base with a flat upper surface and an outer wall extending around the base between opposing ends, defining an open side. In one or more arrangements, the outer wall comprises a ridge defining an inward extending edge of the outer wall. In one or more arrangements, the base of the socket has a magnetic component and is operably connected to a first connector configured to receive a first mounting member configured to connect to a first portion of a shirt. In one or more arrangements, the system includes a post of a generally cylindrical shape having a body extending along an outward extending edge between a top surface and a flat bottom surface. In one or more arrangements, the body of the post has a magnetic component and is operably connected to a second connector configured to receive a second mounting member configured to connect to a second portion of a shirt. In one or more arrangements, the magnetic component of the body of the post is configured to attract the post through the open side of the socket and into alignment with the magnetic component of the base of the socket. In one or more arrangements, when the post is aligned with the socket, the outward extending edge of the body of the post is in approximate parallel alignment with the inward extending edge of the outer wall of the socket. In one or more arrangements, when the post is aligned with the socket, the inward extending edge of the outer wall of the socket is in frictional engagement with the outward extending edge of the body of the post to prevent lateral pullout of the post from the socket along a retention axis. In one or more arrangements, the retention axis is perpendicular to the flat bottom surface of the body of the post and the upper surface of the base of the socket. In one or more arrangements, securing the post to the socket facilitates removable attachment of the first portion of the shirt to the second portion of the shirt.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female mounting member, a female component, a male component, and a male mounting member.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female mounting member, a portion of a substrate, a female component, a male component, another portion of a substrate, and a male mounting member.

FIG. 3 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female mounting member fastened to a female component through a substrate and a male component fastened to a male mounting member through another substrate.

FIG. 4 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female mounting member fastened to a female component through a substrate, which is connected to a male component fastened to a male mounting member through another substrate.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component and a male component configured to connect to each other.

FIG. 6 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component and a male component configured to connect to each other.

FIG. 7 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component and a male component configured to connect to each other.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component and a male component attached thereto.

FIG. 9 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or

more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component and a male component attached thereto.

FIG. 10 shows a view of a fastener system on a garment, in accordance with one or more arrangements, as one example; the view showing the system having a quick-release capability.

FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a cap and a clamping part attached to one portion of a substrate, and a captured part and an attachment attached to another portion of a substrate.

FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a cap, a clamping part, a captured part, and an attachment.

FIG. 13 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a cap, a clamping part, a captured part, and an attachment.

FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a cap, a clamping part, and a captured part.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 16 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 17 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 18 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 20 shows a top view of a clamping part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the part having finger projections and recesses between the finger projections.

FIG. 21 shows a side cross-section view of a clamping part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the part having finger projections and recesses between the finger projections.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective cross-section view of a clamping part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the part in a rested state having

finger projections and recesses between the finger projections.

FIG. 23 shows a side cross-section view of a clamping part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the clamping part in a compressed state having finger projections and recesses between the finger projections.

FIG. 24 shows a perspective cross-section view of a clamping part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the clamping part in a compressed state having finger projections and recesses between the finger projections.

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 26 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 27 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 28 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 29 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 30 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 31 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 32 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 33 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button and a clamping part attached to a first portion of a substrate, and a captured part attached to another portion of a substrate.

FIG. 34 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button and a clamping part attached to a first portion of a substrate, and a captured part attached to another portion of a substrate.

FIG. 35 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with vertical ridges, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 36 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with vertical ridges, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 37 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 38 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with vertical ridges, and a captured part having a central aperture with vertical ridges attached thereto.

FIG. 39 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with vertical ridges, and a captured part having a central aperture with vertical ridges attached thereto.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with a magnetic component, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 41 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with a magnetic component, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 42 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 43 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with a magnetic component, and a captured part having a central aperture with a magnetic component attached thereto.

FIG. 44 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part having a central aperture with a magnetic component, and a captured part having a central aperture with a magnetic component attached thereto.

FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 46 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 47 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part having arms with apertures attached thereto.

FIG. 48 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 49 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of a captured part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the part having arms and apertures.

FIG. 51 shows a top view of a captured part of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the part having arms and apertures.

FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of a button of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the button having holes.

FIG. 53 shows a perspective view of a button of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the button having holes and a projection.

FIG. 54 shows a side view of a button of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the button having holes and a projection.

FIG. 55 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 56 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 57 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 58 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 59 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 60 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 61 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 62 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 63 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 64 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 65 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 66 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 67 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 68 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 69 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 70 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 71 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 72 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 73 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part.

FIG. 74 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 75 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a button, a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 76 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 77 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 78 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 79 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 80 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 81 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 82 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 83 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 84 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 85 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 86 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 87 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 88 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 89 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 90 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 91 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 92 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 93 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 94 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 95 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 96 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 97 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 98 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 99 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 100 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 101 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 102 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 103 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 104 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 105 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 106 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 107 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 108 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 109 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 110 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 111 shows a top view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 112 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part, a resilient element, and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 113 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 114 shows a perspective cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a clamping part and a captured part attached thereto.

FIG. 115 shows a perspective view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a rested state.

FIG. 116 shows a perspective view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a compressed state.

FIG. 117 shows a side view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a rested state.

FIG. 118 shows a side view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a compressed state.

FIG. 119 shows a top view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a rested state.

FIG. 120 shows a top view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a compressed state.

FIG. 121 shows a side cross-section view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a rested state.

FIG. 122 shows a side cross-section view of a resilient element of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the resilient element in a rested state.

FIG. 123 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 124 shows an exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, magnetic components, a male component, and a mounting member.

FIG. 125 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 126 shows a bottom view of a female component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a tab, mounting holes, and a central aperture.

FIG. 127 shows a bottom view of a male mounting member of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements.

FIG. 128 shows a top view of a female component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a tab, mounting holes, and a central aperture.

FIG. 129 shows a bottom view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 130 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component attached to a male component, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 131 shows a side view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component separated from a male component, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 132 shows a side cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, magnetic components, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 133 shows a side exploded cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, magnetic components, and a mounting member.

FIG. 134 shows a front view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 135 shows a front cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, magnetic components, and a mounting member attached thereto.

FIG. 136 shows a side view of a male component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a body, and opposing top and bottom surfaces.

FIG. 137 shows a side view of a male component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a body, a central aperture, mounting holes, a magnetic component, and opposing top and bottom surfaces.

FIG. 138 shows a top view of a male component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a body, a magnetic component, and mounting holes.

FIG. 139 shows a perspective view of a male component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a body, a magnetic component, and mounting holes.

FIG. 140 shows a side exploded view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, magnetic components, and a mounting member.

FIG. 141 shows a bottom cross-section view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a female component, a male component, and a magnetic component.

FIG. 142 shows a bottom view of a female component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a substrate attached thereto.

FIG. 143 shows a bottom view of a male mounting member of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a substrate attached thereto.

FIG. 144 shows a side cross-section view of a female component of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the component having a magnetic component and a substrate attached thereto.

FIG. 145 shows a side cross-section view of a male component and male mounting member of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the components having a magnetic component and a substrate attached thereto.

FIG. 146 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a portion of a substrate attached to the female component and a portion of a substrate between the male component and the male mounting member.

FIG. 147 shows a perspective view of a fastener system, in accordance with one or more arrangements; the view showing the system having a portion of a substrate attached to the female component and a portion of a substrate between the male component and the male mounting member.

FIG. 148 shows a view of a fastener system on a garment, in accordance with one or more arrangements, as one example; the view showing the system in a fastened state having a one-handed quick-release capability.

FIG. 149 shows a view of a fastener system on a garment, in accordance with one or more arrangements, as one example; the view showing the system in an unfastened state demonstrating a one-handed quick-release capability.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In the following detailed description of the embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the principles and scope of the invention. It is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements and procedures, and the scope of the appended claims therefore should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements and procedures. For instance, although aspects and features may be illustrated in or described with reference to certain figures or embodiments, it will be appreciated that features from one figure or embodiment may be combined with features of another figure or embodiment even though the combination is not explicitly shown or explicitly described as a combination. In the depicted embodiments, like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the various drawings.

It should be understood that any advantages and/or improvements discussed herein may not be provided by various disclosed embodiments, or implementations thereof. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which provide such advantages or improvements. Similarly, it should be understood that various embodiments may not address all or any objects of the disclosure or objects of the invention that may be described herein. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which address such objects of the disclosure or invention. Furthermore, although some disclosed embodiments may be described relative to specific materials, embodiments are not limited to the specific materials or apparatuses but only to their specific characteristics and capabilities and other materials and apparatuses can be substituted as is well understood by those skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure.

It is to be understood that the terms such as “left, right, top, bottom, front, back, side, height, length, width, upper, lower, interior, exterior, inner, outer, and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration.

As used herein, “and/or” includes all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, such that “A and/or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A as well as B,” unless it is clearly indicated that only a single item, subgroup of items, or all items are present. The use of “etc.” is defined as “et cetera” and indicates the inclusion of all other elements belonging to the same group of the preceding items, in any “and/or” combination(s).

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include both the singular and plural forms, unless the language explicitly indicates otherwise. Indefinite articles like “a” and “an” introduce or refer to any modified term, both previously-introduced and not, while definite articles like “the” refer to a same previously-introduced term; as such, it is understood that “a” or “an” modify items that are permitted to be previously-introduced or new, while definite articles modify an item that is the same as immediately previously presented. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, characteristics, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not themselves preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, characteristics, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, unless expressly indicated otherwise. For example, if an embodiment of a system is described as comprising an article, it is understood the system is not limited to a single instance of the article unless expressly indicated otherwise, even if elsewhere another embodiment of the system is described as comprising a plurality of articles.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “mated,” “attached,” “fixed,” etc. to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element, and/or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected,” “directly coupled,” “directly engaged” etc. to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” “engaged” versus “directly engaged,” etc.). Similarly, a term such as “operatively” or “operably”, such as when used as “operatively connected” or “operably engaged” is to be interpreted as connected or engaged, respectively, in any manner that facilitates operation, which may include being directly connected, indirectly connected, electronically connected, wirelessly connected or connected by any other manner, method or means that facilitates desired operation. Similarly, a term such as “communicatively connected” includes all variations of information exchange and routing between two electronic devices, including intermediary devices, networks, etc., connected wirelessly or not. Similarly, “connected” or other similar language particularly for electronic components is intended to mean connected by any means, either directly or indirectly, wired and/or wirelessly, such that electricity and/or information may be transmitted between the components.

It will be understood that, although the ordinal terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited to any order by these terms unless specifically stated as such. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another; where there are “second” or higher ordinals, there merely must be a number of elements, without necessarily any difference or other relationship. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of example embodiments or methods.

Similarly, the structures and operations discussed herein may occur out of the order described and/or noted in the figures. For example, two operations and/or figures shown in succession may in fact be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved. Similarly, individual operations within example methods described below may be executed repetitively, individually or sequentially, to provide looping or other series of operations aside from single operations described below. It should be presumed that any embodiment or method having features and functionality described below, in any workable combination, falls within the scope of example embodiments.

As used herein, various disclosed embodiments may be primarily described in the context of the fastener system. However, the embodiments are not so limited. It is appreciated that the embodiments may be adapted for use in other applications which may be improved by the disclosed structures, arrangements and/or methods. The system is merely shown and described as being used in in the context of a fastener for use on apparel for ease of description and as one of countless examples.

Fastener System

With reference to the figures, a fastener system 10 (or simply “system 10”) is presented. System 10 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to selectively secure and release opposing substrate portions 80, 82 to and from each other. In the arrangement shown, as one of countless examples, substrate portions 80, 82 are portions of a shirt. Alternatively, substrate 80, 82 may be any other type of garment or object without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 has a front, a back, opposing left and right sides (or simply “sides”), a top side, and a bottom side. In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a male component 12, a female component 14, a male mounting member 16, and a female mounting member 18, among other components as is described herein. While system 10 has been described according to the arrangement shown, as one example, any combination or arrangement may be used and is hereby

contemplated for use.

Male Component 12

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes male component 12. Male component 12 may also be referred to as post 12. Male component 12 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 80 with another portion of a substrate 82 via a female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 12 includes a body 20, a notch 22, a top surface 24, an outward extending edge 25, a bottom surface 26, a stud 28, and an end 30, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 12 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male component 12 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 12 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male component 12 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

Body 20: In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 12 includes body 20. Body 20 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to engage with cavity 42 of female component 14 of system 10. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 20 may include a notch 22, a top surface 24, an outward extending edge 25, a bottom surface 26, a top component 72, and/or a bottom component 74, among other components.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, body 20 is a generally cylindrical shape having a top surface 24 and a bottom surface 26 being generally planar, circular surfaces. When viewed from a side, body 20 may be generally trapezoidal in shape, with the top surface 24 and bottom surface 26 extending in approximate parallel planar spaced relation to one another. In the arrangement shown, as one example, top surface 24 has a smaller diameter than bottom surface 26, forming an outward extending edge 25. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 20 is tapered such that its diameter of the outward extending edge 25 progressively increases from the top surface 24 to the bottom surface 26. In alternate arrangements, body 20 may have a constant diameter or a diameter that progressively decreases from the top surface 24 to the bottom surface 26.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interface between the outward extending edge 25 of body 20 and the bottom surface 26 of body 20 may be rounded to facilitate smooth attachment and detachment with female component 14 of system 10. In alternative arrangements, the interface between the outward extending edge 25 of body 20 and the bottom surface 26 of body 20 may be a sharp edge. Similarly, the interface between the outward extending edge 25 of body 20 and the top surface 14 of body 20 may be rounded or sharp, depending on the desired application by the user.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, body 20 is a generally cylindrical shape with a top surface 24 and a bottom surface 26 being generally planar, circular surfaces. When viewed from a side, body 20 is generally trapezoidal in shape, with top surface 24 and bottom surface 26 extending in approximate parallel planar spaced relation to one another. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 20 includes a notch 22 with a diameter smaller than both the top surface 24 and the bottom surface 26 of body 20. In the arrangement shown, as one example, notch 22 creates a top component 72 and a bottom component 74 in

body 20 of male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, top component 72 is larger in diameter than bottom component 74. In the arrangement shown, as one example, top component 72 and/or bottom component 74 may also be referred to as outward extending edge 25. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom component 74 and/or outward extending edge 25 of body 20 is configured to engage beneath ridge 44 of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ridge 44 of female component 14 is configured to fit within notch 22 of body 20, with top component 72 sitting above ridge 44 of female component 14 and bottom component 74 sitting below ridge 44 of female component 14.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, body 20 may have a plurality of mounting holes 36. Mounting holes 36 may be configured to facilitate secure attachment of male component 12 to a portion of a substrate 80 using a flexible member (not shown). In the arrangement shown, as one example, the flexible member may be a thread which can be used to sew male component 12 to substrate 80. In the arrangement shown, as one example, mounting holes 36 may extend through the top component 72 of body 20. In alternative arrangements, mounting holes 36 may extend through the bottom component 74 of body 20.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-10, as one example, body 20 may have an aperture 32 extending through all or a portion of the center of body 20. Aperture 32 may be configured to receive and house a magnetic component 34 of male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 may be recessed within the bottom surface 26 of body 20. However, the placement of magnetic component 34 is not so limited. Magnetic component 34 may be placed in any position within male component 12 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 is a magnet. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 may be configured to facilitate alignment of male component 12 with respect to female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 may also be configured to facilitate secure engagement of male component 12 to female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the bottom of magnetic component 34 may be opposite polarity to the top of magnetic component 56 of female component 14 to attract magnetic component 34 to magnetic component 56.

Stud 28: In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, male component 12 may include stud 28. Stud 28 may also be referred to as connector 28. Stud 28 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to extend through substrate 80 and engage with male mounting member 16 to facilitate secure attachment of male component 12 to substrate 80. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 28 may include an end 30, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 28 is a generally cylindrical elongated member extending from the top surface 24 of body 20. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 28 extends from the center of top surface 24 of body 20. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 28 may include an end 30. End 30 may be a point on the opposing end of stud 28 from body 20. In the arrangement shown, as one example, end 30 may be conical in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, end 30 may be pointed for piercing through substrate 80. In alternative arrangements, a hole may be pre-punched in substrate 80 to receive stud 28 and end 30 of male component 12.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, as one example, stud 28 and end 30 may be configured to be compressed and deformed to secure male mounting member 16 and substrate 80 to male component 12. The compression of stud 28 and end 30 may facilitate semi-permanent or permanent attachment of male component 12 to substrate 80. When stud 28 and end 30 are compressed, male component 12 may be securely attached to substrate 80 in the desired location.

While male component 12 has been described according the arrangement shown, as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any other configuration of male component 12 may be used in order to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 80 with another portion of a substrate 82 via a female component 14 of system 10 and its various components.

Female Component 14

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes female component 14. Female component 14 may also be referred to as socket 14. Female component 14 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 82 with another portion of a substrate 80 via a male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 14 includes a base 37, an outer wall 38, outer wall ends 40, an inward extending edge 41, a cavity 42, a ridge 44, an open side 46, a stud 48, an end 50, a shelf 52, a channel 54, an aperture 55, a magnetic component 56, and/or a plurality of mounting holes 58, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 14 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, female component 14 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 14 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, female component 14 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

Base 37: In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 14 includes base 37. Base 37 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to support the components of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base 37 may have upper surface 39, connect to include outer walls 38, and house magnetic component 56, among other things. In the arrangements shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, base 37 may have a plurality of mounting holes 58 and a plurality of channels 54 to receive a flexible member (not shown) such as thread to fasten female component 14 to substrate 82.

Outer Wall 38: In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 14 includes outer wall 38. Outer wall 38 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to define cavity 42 of female component 14 and prevent pullout of male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall 38 may include outer wall ends 40, ridge 44, and open side 46, among other components.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, outer wall 38 is a generally cylindrical shape extending from the outer edge of base 37 of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall 38 extends around the perimeter of female component 14 between opposing outer wall ends 40. Outer wall ends 40 define the gap in outer wall 38 known as open side 46. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall ends 40 and open side 46 are configured to receive body 20 of male component 12 during attachment and detachment of male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall ends 40 may be narrower than the diameter of body 20 of male component 12. Female component 14 may be flexible to permit male component 12 to frictionally fit through open side 46 between outer wall ends 40 and into cavity 42. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the outer wall ends 40 may secure body 20 of male component 12 within cavity 42 of female component 14, while also allowing detachment of male component 12 from female component 14 if desired by a user.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, outer wall 38 may also include ridge 44 extending along the top of outer wall 38. Outer wall 38 and ridge 44 may combine to provide an inward extending edge 41 of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ridge 44, outer wall 38, inward extending edge 41, and outer wall ends 40 combine to define cavity 42 within the empty space between the components. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cavity 42 is configured to receive body 20 of male component 12. When body 20 of male component 12 is attracted within cavity 42 of female component 14, ridge 44 and inward extending edge 41 may prevent lateral pullout of male component 12 along a retention axis 76, while permitting movement through open side 46 of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when male component 12 is engaged with female component 14, inward extending edge 41 of female component 14 may be in approximately parallel alignment with outward extending edge 25 of male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when male component 12 is engaged with female component 14, bottom surface 26 of body 20 of male component 12 may be in approximately parallel alignment with upper surface 39 of base 37 of female component 14.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, outer wall 38 is a generally cylindrical shape defining the outer bounds of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall 38 extends around the base 37 of female component 14 between opposing outer wall ends 40. Outer wall ends 40 define the gap in outer wall 38 known as open side 46. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall ends 40 and open side 46 are configured to receive body 20 of male component 12 during attachment and detachment of system 10.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, outer wall 38 may also include ridge 44 extending perpendicularly from the top of outer wall 38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall 38 and ridge 44 may combine to form inward extending edge 41 of outer wall 38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ridge 44, outer wall 38, and outer wall ends 40 may combine to define cavity 42 within the empty space between the components. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ridge 44 and/or inward extending edge 41 is configured to receive bottom component 74 and/or outward extending edge 25 of body 20 of male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, ridge 44 may extend within notch 22 of male component 12 when male component 12 and female component 14 are in alignment. When bottom component 74 of body 20 of male component 12 is placed within cavity 42 of female component 14, ridge 44 may prevent lateral pullout of male component 12 along a retention axis 76, while permitting movement through open side 46 of female component 14.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, outer wall 38 may have a plurality of mounting holes 58. Mounting holes 58 may be configured to facilitate secure attachment of female component 14 to a portion of a substrate 82 using a flexible member (not shown). In the arrangement shown, as one example, the flexible member may be a thread which can be used to sew female component 14 to substrate 82. In the arrangement shown, as one example, mounting holes 58 may extend through the bottom of base 37 of female component 14. In alternative arrangements, mounting holes 58 may extend through any other portion or component of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, upper surface 39 of base 37 may have a plurality of channels 54 configured to receive the flexible member when it is extended through the plurality of mounting holes 58. Channels 54 may facilitate concealment of the flexible member to permit smooth attachment and detachment of male component 12 from female component 14.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-10, as one example, the upper surface 39 of base 37 may have an aperture 55 extending through all or a portion of the thickness of base 37. Aperture 55 may be configured to receive and house a magnetic component 56 of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 56 may be recessed within base 37 of female component 14. However, the placement of magnetic component 56 is not so limited. Magnetic component 56 may be placed in any position within female component 14 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 56 is a magnet. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 56 may be configured to facilitate alignment of female component 14 with respect to male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 56 may also be configured to facilitate secure engagement of female component 14 to male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the top of magnetic component 56 may be opposite polarity to the bottom of magnetic component 34 of male component 12 to attract magnetic component 56 to magnetic component 34.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, magnetic component 56 may be contained within a shelf 52 extending below the base 37 of female component 14. However, in alternate arrangements, shelf 52 may not be necessary to house and/or support magnetic component 56. In those alternate arrangements, as one example, magnetic component 56 may be housed entirely within base 37, thereby not requiring shelf 52 to house magnetic component 56.

Stud 48: In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, female component 14 may include stud 48. Stud 48 may also be referred to as connector 48. Stud 48 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to extend through substrate 82 and engage with female mounting member 18 to facilitate secure attachment of female component 14 to substrate 82. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 48 may include an end 50, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 48 is a generally cylindrical elongated member extending from the bottom surface of shelf 52 or base 37, depending on the desired configuration. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 48 extends from the center of the bottom surface of shelf 52 or base 37. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stud 48 may include an end 50. End 50 may be a point on the opposing end of stud 48 from shelf 52 or base 37. In the arrangement shown, as one example, end 50 may be conical in shape. In the arrangement shown, as one example, end 50 may be pointed for piercing through substrate 82. In alternative arrangements, a hole may be pre-punched in substrate 82 to receive stud 48 and end 50 of female component 14.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, as one example, stud 48 and end 50 may be configured to be compressed and deformed to secure female mounting member 18 and substrate 82 to female component 14. The compression of stud 48 and end 50 may facilitate semi-permanent or permanent attachment of female component 14 to substrate 82. When stud 48 and end 50 are compressed, female component 14 may be securely attached to substrate 82 in the desired location.

While female component 14 has been described according the arrangement shown, as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any other configuration of female component 14 may be used in order to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 82 with another portion of a substrate 80 via a male component 12 of system 10 and its various components.

Male Mounting Member 16

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, system 10 includes male mounting member 16. Male mounting member 16 may also be referred to as mounting member 16. Male mounting member 16 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate secure attachment of a portion of a substrate 80 with male component 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 16 includes an aperture 60, a recess 62, and a ridge 64, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 16 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male mounting member 16 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 16 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male mounting member 16 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 16 is a generally cylindrical shape having an aperture 60. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 16 is configured to operate like a washer and receive stud 28 of male component 12 through aperture 60. When male mounting member 16 is placed on stud 28 via aperture 60, substrate 80 may be fastened between male component 12 and male mounting member 16.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 16 includes a recess 62 extending up from the bottom of male mounting member 16. Ridge 64 may define the outer edge of recess 62. Ridge 64 and recess 62 may be configured to engage substrate 80 to ensure male component 12 does not slide along substrate 80. In alternative arrangements, male mounting member 16 may not include recess 62 or ridge 64, and instead may comprise generally flat, planar surfaces on the bottom and top of male mounting member 16.

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 10, as one example, the top surface of male mounting member 16 may be configured to attach to a standard button. In this example arrangement, system 10 may be concealed behind a standard button, making substrate 80 and substrate 82 appear as if it is a garment with standard buttons.

While male mounting member 16 has been described according the arrangement shown, as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any other configuration of

male mounting member 16 may be used in order to facilitate secure attachment of a portion of a substrate 80 with male component 12.

Female Mounting Member 18

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, system 10 includes female mounting member 18. Female mounting member 18 may also be referred to as mounting member 18. Female mounting member 18 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate secure attachment of a portion of a substrate 82 with female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female mounting member 18 includes an aperture 66, a recess 68, and a ridge 70, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female mounting member 18 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, female mounting member 18 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female mounting member 18 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, female mounting member 18 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female mounting member 18 is a generally cylindrical shape having an aperture 66. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female mounting member 18 is configured to operate like a washer and receive stud 48 of female component 14 through aperture 66. When female mounting member 18 is placed on stud 48 via aperture 66, substrate 82 may be fastened between female component 14 and female mounting member 18.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female mounting member 18 includes a recess 68 extending up from the bottom of female mounting member 18. Ridge 70 may define the outer edge of recess 68. Ridge 70 and recess 68 may be configured to engage substrate 82 to ensure female component 14 does not slide along substrate 82. In alternative arrangements, female mounting member 18 may not include recess 68 or ridge 70, and instead may comprise generally flat, planar surfaces on the bottom and top of female mounting member 18.

While male female mounting member 18 has been described according the arrangement shown, as one example, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any other configuration of female mounting member 18 may be used in order to facilitate secure attachment of a portion of a substrate 82 with female component 14.

In Operation

In various arrangements, system 10 may be used to fasten a portion of a substrate 80 to another portion of a substrate 82. To operate system 10, a user must select a substrate 80, 82, such as a shirt, and attach male component 12 and female component 14 to said substrate 80, 82. Substrate 80, 82 may be selected from garments, bags and luggage, wearables and accessories, or medical or tactical gear, among other options. Using garments as substrate 80, 82, male component 12 and female component 14 may be attached to plackets, cuffs, pockets, or uniforms, among other options. As one example, substrate 80 may be one side of the front of a shirt or other garment, while substrate 82 may be the other side of the front of a shirt. Using bags and luggage as substrate 80, 82, male component 12 and female component 14 may be attached to pockets, covers, or compartments, among other options. Using wearables and accessories as substrate 80, 82, male component 12 and female component 14 may be attached to belts, straps, or fashion items, among other options. Using medical or tactical gear as substrate 80, 82, male component 12 and female component 14 may be attached to plackets, cuffs, pockets, uniforms, closures, or compartments, among other options.

To prepare substrate 80, 82 for male component 12 or female component 14, a desired location on substrate 80, 82 needs to be selected. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, either male component 12 or female component 14 can be inserted through substrate 80 and substrate 82 using stud 28 and stud 48, respectively. End 30 of stud 28 and end 50 of stud 48 may be configured to pierce a hole in substrate 80 and/or substrate 82. In an alternative arrangement, a user may pre-punch holes in substrate 80 and substrate 82. Once male component 12 or female component 14 have been inserted through substrate 80 or substrate 82, male mounting member 16 or female mounting member 18 may respectively be placed on stud 28 or stud 48. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, stud 28 and stud 48 may be compressed to secure male mounting member 16 or female mounting member 18 to male component 12 or female component 14 respectively, securing substrate 80 or substrate 82 between the components.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, male component 12 or female component 14 may be attached to substrate 80 or substrate 82 using flexible members, such as thread sewn by hand or by machine. In this example embodiment, male component 12 and female component 14 are sewn to substrate 80 or substrate 82 as a standard button would be.

Once male component 12 and female component 14 have been attached to their respective substrates 80, 82, system 10 may be operated. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-4, as one example, male component 12 can be placed near female component 14 to fasten to female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 of male component 12 may be attracted to magnetic component 56 of female component 14. This magnetic attraction between male component 12 and female component 14 helps to facilitate alignment of male component 12 and female component 14 prior to removable attachment of the components 12, 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, once male component 12 is being attracted to female component 14, body 20 of male component 12 can be inserted through open side 46 within outer wall 38 of female component 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall 38 and ridge 44 combine to form inward extending edge 41 of female component 14. When body 20 of male component 12 is aligned with base 37 of female component 14, inward extending edge 41 of female component 14 and outward extending edge 25 of male component 12 are in approximately parallel alignment. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the approximately parallel alignment of inward extending edge 41 of female component 14 and outward extending edge 25 of male component 12 causes frictional engagement preventing lateral pullout of male component 12 from female component 14 along retention axis 76. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 20 of male component 12 may be moved in and out of female component 14 through open side 46 of outer wall 38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 of male component 12 and magnetic component 56 of female component 14 facilitate attraction, alignment, and fastening of male component 12 and female component 14.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5-9, as one example, bottom component 74 and/or outward extending edge 25 of male component 12 may be inserted through open side 46 of outer wall 38 into cavity 42 of female component 14. In this example arrangement, ridge 44 and/or inward extending edge 41 is configured to fit within notch 22 of male component 12 above bottom component 74. When body 20 of male component 12 is aligned with base 37 of female component 14, inward extending edge 41 and/or ridge 44 of female component 14 and outward extending edge 25 and/or bottom component 74 of male component 12 are in approximately parallel alignment. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the approximately parallel alignment of inward extending edge 41 of female component 14 and outward extending edge 25 of male component 12 prevents lateral pullout of male component 12 from female component 14 along retention axis 76. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 20 of male component 12 may be moved in and out of female component 14 through open side 46 of outer wall 38. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 34 of male component 12 and magnetic component 56 of female component 14 facilitate attraction, alignment, and fastening of male component 12 and female component 14.

In addition, in the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 12 may be detached from female component 14. Using the same method for how male component 12 was secured within cavity 42 of female component 14 described above, male component 12 may be disengaged from female component 14. Specifically, in the arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-10, as one example, open side 46 of female component 14 facilitates quick release of male component 12 from female component 14. If a plurality of systems 10 are deployed on the same substrates 80, 82, all male components 12 can be released from their corresponding female components 14 at one time, with one motion, if each system 10 is aligned in the same direction on the substrates 80, 82. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 10, as one example, a user may detach all male components 12 from their corresponding plurality of female components 14 by pulling one substrate 80 in the direction of open side 46 of female component 14, and the other substrate 82 in the opposite direction of open side 46 of female component 14. This method of detachment can be seen in FIG. 10 where a user holds substrate 80 while pulling substrate 82 in the direction of the open side 46 of female component 14. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 148-149, as one example, detachment can be achieved similarly to what is shown in FIG. 10 by simply pulling substrate 82 in the direction of the open side 46 of female component 14, without the need for the user to hold substrate 80. Said another way, a plurality of systems 10 may be simultaneously detached by a user manipulating only one of the substrates 80, 82. This alternate arrangement allows simple and efficient detachment of all systems 10 with only one point of contact. In the arrangement shown, as one example, this arrangement of a plurality of systems 10 will allow for quick release of all of the plurality of systems 10 with one motion by a user.

Alternative Arrangement(s)

With reference to FIGS. 11-14 an alternative arrangement of fastener system 100 is presented. The arrangement shown in FIGS. 11-14 is similar to the system 10 shown in FIGS. 1-10 and as such, the disclosure related to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-10 applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-14 unless stated specifically herein. The primary difference presented in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 11-14 relates to female component 130, male component 170, cap 110, male mounting member 190, and the method by which female component 130 fastens to male component 170 of system 100. More specifically, in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 11-14, male component 170 is configured to snap within a plurality of finger projections 132 of female component 130.

Female Component 130

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 100 includes female component 130. Female component 130 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with another portion of a substrate 102 via a male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 includes a central aperture 131, finger projections 132, and recesses 133, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, female component 130 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, female component 130 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 11-14, as one example, female component 130 is a generally cylindrical component having a central aperture 131. In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 131 may be configured to accommodate magnetic component 111 of cap 110. In alternate arrangements, female component 130 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the periphery of the female component 130 include finger projections 132 that project outwardly towards the outer edges of the female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, finger projections 132 are flattened projections 132A near the center of the female component 130 and are curved projections 132B at the outer edge of the female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the curved projections 132B are configured to receive and secure male component 170 to female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 may include a plurality of recesses 133 between each of the finger projections 132. As shown in FIGS. 11-14, female component 130 may have six finger projections 132, but female component 130 may have more or less than six finger projections 132 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Male Component 170

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 100 includes male component 170. Male component 170 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 102 with another portion of a substrate 101 via a female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 includes a central aperture 171, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male component 170 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male component 170 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 11-14, as one example, male component 170 is a generally cylindrical component having a central aperture 171. In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 171 may be configured to accommodate magnetic component 191 of male mounting member 190. In alternate arrangements, male component 170 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 has outer edges configured to secure within finger projections 132 of female component 130. Securing male component 170 to female component 130 facilitates fastening of substrate 102 to substrate 101.

Male Mounting Member 190

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 100 includes male mounting member 190. Male mounting member 190 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 102 with male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 190 may include a protrusion housing a magnetic component 191, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 190 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male mounting member 190 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 190 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male mounting member 190 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 11-14, as one example, male mounting member 190 is a generally cylindrical component having a central protrusion. In the arrangement shown, as one example, central protrusion may be configured to fit within central aperture 171 of male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 190 may be configured to secure substrate 102 to male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 190 may be configured to function as a rivet where the protrusion extends through central aperture 171 and expands to secure male component 170 to substrate 102. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 190 may include a magnetic component 191. Magnetic component 191 may be embedded within the central protrusion of male mounting member 190. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 191 may be configured to facilitate alignment and retention of all components of system 100 with the opposing magnetic component 111. In alternate arrangements, male component 170 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure.

Cap 110

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 100 includes cap 110. Cap 110 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 may include a magnetic component 111, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, cap 110 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, cap 110 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 11-14, as one example, cap 110 is a generally cylindrical component having a flat, planar central surface with rounded outer edges. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 may be configured to secure substrate 101 to female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 may include a magnetic component 111. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 111 may be configured to fit within and/or extend through central aperture 131 of female component 130. Magnetic component 111 may be embedded within cap 110. In the arrangement shown, as one example magnetic component 111 may be configured to facilitate alignment and retention of all components of system 100 with the opposing magnetic component 191. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 may be configured to attach to female component 130 via the outer edges of cap 110 engaging the curved projections 132B of female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cap 110 may be configured to be aesthetically pleasing when viewed on substrate 101 and configured to cover the remainder of the components of system 100. In alternate arrangements, cap 110 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure.

In Operation

In various arrangements, as shown in FIGS. 11-14, system 100 may be used to fasten a portion of a substrate 101 to another portion of a substrate 102. To operate system 100, a user must select a substrate 101, 102 and attach male component 170 and female component 130 to said substrate 101, 102. Substrate 101 may be fastened to female component 130 by placing cap 110 and female component 130 on opposing sides of substrate 101. Once cap 110 and female component 130 are aligned on opposing sides of substrate 101, a user may securely attach female component 130 to substrate 101 by engaging the outer edges of cap 110 around finger projections 130 with substrate 101 placed between cap 110 and female component 130.

A similar method of securing male component 170 to male mounting member 190 can be used to secure male component 170 to substrate 102 at a desired location on substrate 102. Once male component 170 and male mounting member 190 are aligned on opposing sides of substrate 102, a user may securely attach male component 170 to substrate 102 by engaging the protrusion of male mounting member 190 through central aperture 171 of male component 170 with substrate 102 placed between male mounting member 190 and male component 170. Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 14, male component 170 may be fastened to substrate 102 using a flexible member (not shown), such as thread, or an adhesive to secure male component 170 to substrate 102. Flexible member may be secured to male component 170 through a plurality of mounting holes in male component 170. However, any other means of securing male component 170 to substrate 102 is hereby contemplated for use, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

Once female component 130 has been fastened to substrate 101 and male component 170 has been fastened to substrate 102, a user may operate system 100. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 can be fastened to female component 130 by forcing or snapping the outer edges of male component 170 into the finger projections 132 of female component 130, which are configured to receive the outer edges of male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 111 and magnetic component 191 may be configured to support alignment and retention of female component 130 and male component 170 during operation of system 100.

Alternative Arrangement(s)

With reference to FIGS. 15-24 an alternative arrangement of fastener system 200 is presented. The arrangement shown in FIGS. 15-24 is similar to the system 100 shown in FIGS. 11-14 and as such, the disclosure related to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-10 applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15-24 unless stated specifically herein. The primary difference presented in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 15-24 relates to button 105 and female component 130. More specifically, in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 15-24, substrate 101 is secured to female component 130 via button 105 instead of cap 110, and female component 130 is flexible to facilitate attachment and detachment from male component 170.

Button 105

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 200 includes button 105. Button 105 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may include a plurality of holes 106, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may be a standard button configured to attach to female component 130.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 15-24, as one example, button 105 is a generally cylindrical component having a flat, planar surface with flat outer edges. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may be configured to secure substrate 101 to female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may include a plurality of holes 106 configured to facilitate attachment of button 105 through substrate 101 to female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may be configured to be aesthetically pleasing when viewed on substrate 101 and configured to cover the remainder of the components of system 200. In alternate arrangements, button 105 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure.

Female Component 130

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 200 includes female component 130. Female component 130 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with another portion of a substrate 102 via a male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 is flexible to facilitate attachment and/or detachment with male component 170.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, FIGS. 21-22 show cross-section views of female component 130 in a rested state. In the arrangement shown, as one example, FIGS. 23-24 show cross-section views of female component 130 in a flexed, compressed state. In the arrangement shown, as one example, pressing from the top of female component 130 causes female component 130 to flex, which either engages or disengages female component 130 from male component 170.

In Operation

In various arrangements, as shown in FIGS. 15-24, system 200 may be used to fasten a portion of a substrate 101 to another portion of a substrate 102. To operate system 200, a user must select a substrate 101 and attach female component 130 to said substrate 101. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 105 may secure substrate 101 to female component 130 using standard button fastening methods, such as thread or adhesive. Any other method of securing button 105 to female component 130 through substrate 101 is hereby contemplated for use within the present disclosure.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 may flex when pressure is placed on female component 130 from the top surface of female component 130. The flexing of female component 130 forces the center surface of female component 130 downwards, as seen in FIGS. 23-24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, movement of the center surface of female component 130 downwards expands the width of the bottom curved portion of protrusions 132 of female component 130. This expansion of finger protrusions 132 either engages or disengages male component 170. Any other method of engaging or disengaging male component 170 is hereby contemplated for use and is within the present disclosure.

Alternative Arrangement(s)

With reference to FIGS. 25-44 an alternative arrangement of fastener system 300 is presented. The arrangement shown in FIGS. 25-44 is similar to the system 200 shown in FIGS. 15-24 and as such, the disclosure related to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15-24 applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 25-44 unless stated specifically herein. The primary difference presented in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 25-44 relates to female component 130 and male component 170. More specifically, in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 25-44, female component 130 and male component 170 each have a greater thickness and additional components.

Female Component 130

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 300 includes female component 130. Female component 130 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with another portion of a substrate 102 via a male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 includes a central aperture 131, magnetic component 136, and a plurality of mounting holes 138, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, female component 130 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, female component 130 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 25-44, as one example, female component 130 is a generally cylindrical component having a central aperture 131. In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 131 may be configured to accommodate magnetic component 136 of female component 130. In alternate arrangements, female component 130 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 of system 300 has a greater thickness than female component 130 of either system 100 or system 200. Specifically, thicker finger projections 132 of system 300 provide a greater difference in outer diameter of female component 130 compared to the outer diameter of male component 170.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, as one example, female component 130 has finger projections 132 that hook around and snap over the outer ends of male component 170. In the arrangement shown, as one example, an inner concave surface of the finger projections 132 matches and mates with an outer convex surface of the outer edge of male component 170.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 130 may have a plurality of mounting holes 138 configured to allow female component 130 to be fastened to substrate 101. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 35-44, as one example, female component 130 has six mounting holes 138 evenly spaced around central aperture 131. In another arrangement shown in FIGS. 25-34, as one example, female component 130 has four mounting holes 138 evenly spaced around central aperture 131. The plurality of mounting holes 138 allow for increased stability, retention, and force capacity when sewn to substrate 101. The additional retention also makes each finger protrusion 132 more integrated with substrate 101, thereby providing more securing force. However, any number of mounting holes 138 may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As seen in FIGS. 30-34, as one example, female component 130 may be mounted to substrate 101 using button 105 having holes 106, as previously described.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 131 of female component 130 may have a plurality of vertical ridges 135 included on the inner surface of central aperture 131. The plurality of vertical ridges 135 may be configured to align with corresponding fixating components of substrate 101, thereby creating a more secure connection between female component 130 and substrate 101.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 131 of female component 130 may house magnetic component 136. Magnetic component 136 may be a magnet. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 136 of female component 130 may be press fit, glued, and/or UV cured to integrate within female component 130. In an alternate arrangement, as one example, magnetic component 136 may be over molded within female component 130 during the manufacturing process. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 136 may combine with magnetic component 176 of male component 170 to assist in alignment and retention of female component 130 and male component 170.

Male Component 170

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 300 includes male component 170. Male component 170 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 102 with another portion of a substrate 101 via a female component 130. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 includes a central aperture 171, magnetic component 176, and a plurality of mounting holes 178, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male component 170 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male component 170 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 25-44, as one example, male component 170 is a generally cylindrical component having a central aperture 171. In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 171 may be configured to accommodate magnetic component 176 of male component 170. In alternate arrangements, male component 170 may be any other shape and within the scope of the present disclosure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 of system 300 has a greater thickness than male component 170 of either system 100 or system 200.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 170 may have a plurality of mounting holes 178 configured to allow male component 170 to be fastened to substrate 102. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 35-44, as one example, male component 170 has six mounting holes 178 evenly spaced around central aperture 171. In another arrangement shown in FIGS. 25-34, as one example, male component 170 has four mounting holes 178 evenly spaced around central aperture 171. The plurality of mounting holes 178 allow for increased stability, retention, and force capacity when sewn to substrate 102. However, any number of mounting holes 178 may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 171 of male component 170 may have a plurality of vertical ridges 175 included on the inner surface of central aperture 171. The plurality of vertical ridges 175 may be configured to align with corresponding fixating components of substrate 102, thereby creating a more secure connection between male component 170 and substrate 102.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, central aperture 171 of male component 170 may house magnetic component 176. Magnetic component 176 may be a magnet. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 176 of male component 170 may be press fit, glued, and/or UV cured to integrate within male component 170. In an alternate arrangement, as one example, magnetic component 176 may be over molded within male component 170 during the manufacturing process. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 176 may combine with magnetic component 136 of female component 130 to assist in alignment and retention of male component 170 and female component 130.

In Operation

In various arrangements, as shown in FIGS. 25-44, system 300 may be used to fasten a portion of a substrate 101 to another portion of a substrate 102. To operate system 300, a user must select a substrate 101, 102 and attach female component 130 and/or male component 170 to said substrate 101, 102. Female component 130 and male component 170 may be attached to substrate 101 and substrate 102 using a flexible member, such as thread. Once the components of system 300 have been secured to substrate 101 and substrate 102, system 300 may operate to attach and detach male component 170 to female component 130 by pressing female component 130 onto male component 170. Magnetic component 136 of female component 130 and magnetic component 176 of male component 170 may facilitate alignment and retention of female component 130 and male component 170 during operation of system 300.

Alternative Arrangement(s)

With reference to FIGS. 45-72 an alternative arrangement of fastener system 400 is presented. The arrangement shown in FIGS. 45-72 is similar to the system 200 shown in FIGS. 15-24 and as such, the disclosure related to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15-24 applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 45-72 unless stated specifically herein. The primary difference presented in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 45-72 relates to female component 230, male component 270, and button 205. More specifically, in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 45-72, male component 270 includes arms 272 and female component 230 may include an outer edge with lip 242.

Male Component 270

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 400 includes male component 270. Male component 270 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 102 with another portion of a substrate 101 via a female component 230. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 may include a central aperture 271, arms 272, and apertures 274, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male component 270 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male component 270 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 45-62, as one example, male component 270 is a generally cylindrical component having a plurality of arms 272. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 may have a shape 273 forming a space between each of arms 272. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 has three arms 272. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 may be made of a resilient deformable material such that male component 270 may be snapped into communication with female component 230. In the arrangement shown, as one example, each arm 272 of male component 270 may be configured to deform when a force is applied to male component 270 to connect male component 270 with female component 230. This example embodiment results in less material being used to manufacture the male component 270 of system 400.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, each arm 272 of male component 270 may have an aperture 274. Apertures 274 of arms 272 may assist with deformation of male component 270 to facilitate attachment and detachment of male component 270 to female component 230. In alternate arrangements, arms 272 of male component 270 may be free of apertures 274. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 47-49, as one example, body 220 of male component 270 may have a shape 273 forming a space between each of arms 272, which may be configured to receive thread or another type of fixation device to attach male component 270 to substrate 102.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 270 may include features configured to be received by female component 230. In some arrangements, such as what is shown in FIGS. 48-49, at the distal end of each arm 272 of male component 270, fulcrum portion 244 and protrusion 246 may be included. In some arrangements, as one example, anchor 248 of female component 230 may be configured to interface with fulcrum portion 244 of male component 270, and lip 242 of female component 230 may be configured to retain protrusion 246 of male component 270.

In the arrangement shown in at least FIGS. 50-51, as one example, male component 270 may have central aperture 271 configured to receive projection 207 of button 205. In the arrangement shown, as one example, substrate 102 may be positioned between button 205 and male component 270.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 63-72, as one example, male component 270 may have two arms 272 to correspond with and receive the two arms 232 of female component 230. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the two arms 272 of male component 270 may be non-identical arms 272. This example embodiment results in less material being used to manufacture the male component 270 of system 400.

Female Component 230

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 400 includes female component 230. Female component 230 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with another portion of a substrate 102 via a male component 270. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 230 may include a plurality of mounting holes 231, arms 232, a lip 242 and/or an anchor 248, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 230 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, female component 230 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 230 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, female component 230 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 48-49, as one example, male component 270 may connect with female component 230 through an interference fit. To facilitate an interference fit, female component 230 may include retaining features to hold portions of the male component 270. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the retaining features of the female component 230 may include anchor 248 and/or lip 242. In some arrangements, as one example, anchor 248 of female component 230 may be configured to interface with fulcrum portion 244 of male component 270, and lip 242 of female component 230 may be configured to retain protrusion 246 of male component 270.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 48-49, as one example, lip 242 of female component 230 may include ramp 243. Ramp 243 may be configured with a slope. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the slope of ramp 243 may be configured to contact protrusion 246 of male component 270 during attachment of male component 270 to female component 230, such that arm 272 will bias and eventually snap into female component 230 to retain male component 270 therewith.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 55-58, as one example, the base of female component 230 may have one or more holes 231 for thread and/or other fixation tools to secure female component 230 to a substrate 101.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 59-62, as one example, female component 230 may not extend all the way around the cylindrical shape but be comprised of a plurality of arms 232 to correspond with and receive the plurality of arms 272 of the male component 270. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 59-62, as one example, female component 230 has three arms 232 to correspond with and receive the three arms 272 of male component 270. This example embodiment results in less material being used to manufacture the female component 230 of system 400.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 63-72, as one example, female component 230 may have two arms 232 to correspond with and receive the two arms 272 of male component 270. This example embodiment results in less material being used to manufacture the female component 230 of system 400.

Button 205

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 400 includes button 205. Button 205 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 102 with male component 270. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 230 may include a plurality of mounting holes 206 and a projection 207, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 205 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 205 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, button 205 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 52-54, as one example, button 205 may have a plurality of mounting holes 206 configured to secure button 205 with thread or other fixation tools to secure button 205 to substrate 102. In the arrangement shown, as one example, button 205 may include a projection 207 extending from the bottom surface of button 205. In the arrangement shown, as one example, protrusion 207 on the bottom surface of button 205 operably connects with central aperture 271 of male component 270 to secure button 205 thereto. Additionally, in an alternate arrangement, substrate 102 may be positioned and secured between button 205 and male component 270.

In Operation

In various arrangements, as shown in FIGS. 45-72, system 400 may be used to fasten a portion of a substrate 101 to another portion of a substrate 102. To operate system 400, a user must select a substrate 101, 102 and attach female component 230 and/or male component 270 to said substrate 101, 102. In the arrangement shown in at least FIGS. 45-49, as one example, to connect male component 270 with female component 230, a force may be applied to body 220 of male component 270, causing each arm 272 to pivot fulcrum portion 244 of male component 270 against anchor 248 of female component 230, forcing protrusion 246 of male component 270 to swing under lip 242 of female component 230. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lip 242 and anchor 248 of female component 230 may be configured to retain the distal portions of each arm 272 of male component 270, with each arm 272 biasing against anchor 248 and lip 242 of female component 230.

Alternative Arrangement(s)

With reference to FIGS. 73-122 an alternative arrangement of fastener system 500 is presented. The arrangement shown in FIGS. 73-122 is similar to the system 400 shown in FIGS. 45-72 and as such, the disclosure related to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 45-72 applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 73-122 unless stated specifically herein. The primary difference presented in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 73-122 relates to female component 330, male component 370, and resilient member 350. More specifically, in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 73-122, female component 330 and male component 370 have altered configurations, and resilient member 350 facilitates attachment and detachment of female component 330 and male component 370 of system 500.

Male Component 370

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 500 includes male component 370. Male component 370 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 102 with another portion of a substrate 101 via a female component 330. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 may include a central aperture 371 and arms 372, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, male component 370 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of

connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, male component 370 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 73-75, as one example, male component 370 is a generally cylindrical component having a plurality of arms 372. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 may have a shape forming a space between each of arms 372. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 has three arms 372. In the arrangement shown, as one example, arms 372 may have apertures (not shown) to aid in resiliency and/or may be configured to receive a flexible member such as thread or any other type of retaining means to attach male component 370 to substrate 102. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 may be made of a resilient deformable material such that male component 370 may be snapped into communication with female component 330. In the arrangement shown, as one example, each arm 372 of male component 370 may be configured to deform when a force is applied to male component 370 to connect male component 370 with female component 330. This example embodiment results in less material being used to manufacture the male component 370 of system 500. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 73, as one example, male component 370 may be mounted to substrate 102 via a button 305. Button 305 may be attached to male component 370 for functional purposes and/or aesthetic purposes. In the arrangement shown, as one example button 305 may have a projection 307 configured to attach to central aperture 371 of male component 370. However, button 305 may be connected

by any other means as is necessary to attach button 305 to male component 370. All components described herein of male component 370 may vary in shape, thickness, geometry, and/or material to achieve the necessary function as described and made apparent by the disclosure herein.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 76-80, as one example, male component 370 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as male component 370 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 73-75. FIGS. 79-80 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane M-M shown in FIG. 77.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 81-85, as one example, male component 370 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as male component 370 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 73-75. FIG. 85 shows a side cross-section view of system 500 at plane N-N shown in FIG. 83. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 81-85, as one example, male component 370 has a saucer type shape with a larger diameter bottom surface facing female component 330 and a smaller diameter top surface facing away from the female component 330. The larger diameter bottom surface of male component 370 engages with a lip 342 of female component 330 to secure male component 370 to female component 330.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 86-89, as one example, male component 370 is similar to the embodiment described in FIGS. 81-85, however male component 370 may have a different side view profile. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 370 has an upper side surface and a lower side surface along the sides of male component 370 in between the top surface and the bottom surface. FIG. 89 shows a side cross-section view of system 500 at plane P-P shown in FIG. 87. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the top surface of male component 370 has a greater diameter than the bottom surface of male component 370. However, in the arrangement shown, male component 370 has an upper side surface that increases diameter of male component 370 from the top surface to a midpoint, and a lower side surface that decreases the diameter of male component 370 from midpoint to the bottom surface. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the upper side surface engages with lip 342 of female component 330 that prevents lateral pullout along retention axis 380 of male component 370 from female component 330.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 90-94, as one example, male component 370 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as male component 370 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 86-89. FIGS. 93-94 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane Q-Q and R-R, respectively, shown in FIG. 91. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 90-94, as one example, female component 330 has arms 332 that engage with male component 370 in a similar manner as discussed in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 86-89.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 105-109, as one example, male component 370 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as male component 370 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 100-104. FIGS. 108-109 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane W-W, shown in FIG. 106. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 105-109, as one example, male component 370 has one or more outward arm extensions 372 which are configured to engage with an internal wall portion 332 of female component 330. The outward arm extensions 372 wind through a guided pathway inside the female component 330 to engage therewith.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 110-114, as one example, male component 370 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as male component 370 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 105-109. FIGS. 113-114 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane X-X, shown in FIG. 111. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 110-114, as one example, male component 370 has an engaging mechanism which engages with an internal wall portion of the female component 330. The engaging mechanism may wind through a guided pathway inside the female component 330 to engage therewith.

Female Component 330

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 500 includes female component 330. Female component 330 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 101 with another portion of a substrate 102 via a male component 370. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 may include arms 232, internal wall portions 336, and lip 342, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. Alternatively, female component 330 may be formed of multiple pieces that are connected or assembled to one another through an adhesive, however any other means of connecting or assembling the multiple pieces may be used, including bolting, screwing, welding, friction fitting, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, female component 330 may be formed primarily of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 81-85, as one example, female component 330 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as female component 330 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 73-75. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 may have two opposite arms 332 which engage with the bottom portion of male component 370. More specifically, arms 332 of female component 330 each have a lip 342 that has a narrower inner diameter than the diameter of the bottom surface of male component 370. Such narrower inner diameter may prevent lateral pullout along retention axis 380 of male component 370 from female component 330. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 86-89, as one example, female component has a similar configuration as the embodiment described herein with respect to FIGS. 81-85.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 90-94, as one example, female component 330 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as female component 330 described above relating to previous embodiments shown and described. FIGS. 93-94 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane Q-Q and R-R respectively, shown in FIG. 91. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 90-94, as one example, female component 330 has arms 332 that engage with male component 370. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 has four arms 332 extending up from the base of female component 330. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 90, as one example, female component 330 has two smaller arms 332 on opposing sides and two larger arms 332 on alternate opposing sides, so that all four arms 332 are evenly spaced around female component 330.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 95-99, as one example, female component 330 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as female component 330 described above relating to previous embodiments shown in FIGS. 90-94. FIGS. 98-99 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane S-S and T-T respectively, shown in FIG. 96. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 95-99, as one example, female component 330 has arms 332 that engage with male component 370. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 has two arms 332 extending up from opposing sides of the base of female component 330.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 100-104, as one example, female component 330 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as female component 330 described above relating to previous embodiments shown in FIGS. 95-99. FIGS. 103-104 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane U-U and V-V respectively, shown in FIG. 1001. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 101-104, as one example, female component 330 has arms 332 that engage with male component 370. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 has four equally sized arms 332 extending up from opposing sides of the base of female component 330.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 105-109, as one example, female component 330 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as female component 330 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 100-104. FIGS. 108-109 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane W-W, shown in FIG. 106. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 105-109, as one example, female component 330 has a guided pathway which is configured to receive one or more outward arms 372 of male component 370. The arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 includes a plurality of arms 332 to engage with arms 372 of male component 370. In the arrangement shown, as one example, arms 332 of female component 330 may be squared or pointed when viewed from a top perspective. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 330 of system 500 includes three pointed arms 332 and three rectangular arms 332. However, any configuration and shape of arms 332 is hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 110-114, as one example, female component 330 is presented having a different appearance, but similar function, as female component 330 described above relating to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 105-109. FIGS. 113-114 show side and perspective cross-section views of system 500 at plane X-X, shown in FIG. 111. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 110-114, as one example, female component 330 has a round base portion and an internal cavity to receive the male component 370.

Resilient Member 350

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 500 includes resilient member 350. Resilient member 350 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of male component 370 and female component 330 during operation of system 500. In the arrangement shown, as one example, resilient member 350 may include a flexible body capable of compression, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, resilient member 350 may be formed of a single, unitary member that is formed in a manufacturing process such as molding, injection molding, machining, extrusion, forming, additive manufacturing, or the like to form a unitary and monolithic member. In the arrangement shown, as one example, resilient member 350 is formed of a metallic material such as steel, aluminum, chromium, or any other metallic material, alloy, and/or composite thereof. Alternatively, resilient member 350 may be formed primarily of a non-metallic material such as a plastic material, a fiberglass material, or any other non-metallic material and/or composite thereof.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 73-75, as one example, resilient member 350 may be a spring or formed spring steel. In the arrangement shown, as one example, resilient member 350 may be in a compressed state or a resting state, depending on the present configuration of system 500. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 75, as one example, resilient member 350 is not shown in a compressed state as it may be when system 500 is captured, fastened, or engaged. In the arrangement shown, as one example, resilient member 350 holds male component 370 in tension with female component 330 in the engaged state by opposing forces within resilient member 350. In the arrangement shown, as one example, resilient member 350 may be attached to an upper surface of the base 334 of female component 330 via an over molding injection process, or some other joining method that may be used to attach resilient member 350 to female component 330. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 100-104, as one example, resilient member 350 may comprise two cantilever projections extending up from the upper surface of the base 334 of female component 330. Resilient member 350 is not to be limited to the geometry or configuration shown, but may be configured in various geometries, materials, and/or orientations to achieve the functionality disclosed and described herein.

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 115-122, as one example, resilient member 350 is presented as used in the present disclosure. FIGS. 115-116 show a perspective view of resilient member 350. FIGS. 117-118 show a side view of resilient member 350. FIGS. 119-120 show a top view of resilient member 350. FIGS. 121-122 show a cross section view taken along plane Y-Y of FIGS. 119-120. FIGS. 115, 117, 119, and 121 show resilient member 350 in a resting configuration. FIGS. 116, 118, 120, and 122 show resilient member 350 in a compressed configuration.

In Operation

In various arrangements, as shown in FIGS. 73-122, system 500 may be used to fasten a portion of a substrate 101 to another portion of a substrate 102. To operate system 500, a user must select a substrate 101, 102 and attach female component 330 and/or male component 370 to said substrate 101, 102. In the arrangement shown in at least FIGS. 73-81, as one example, to connect male component 370 with female component 330, an engaging force may be applied to body 320 of male component 370, causing a snap-fit interaction at each of the arms 372 with the retaining features 342 of female component 330, forcing arms 272 of male component 370 to fit under retaining features 342 of female component 330. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the retaining features 342 of female component 330 may flex outward to accommodate each arm 372 of male component 370. In the arrangement shown, as one example, retaining features 342 of female component 330 may be configured to retain the distal portions of each arm 372 of male component 370, with each arm 372 biasing against retaining features 342 of female component 330. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when male component 370 is engaged with female component 330, male component 370 is held in tension in this engaged state by opposing forces within the resilient member 350 between male component 370 and female component 330.

To disengage, unfasten, or release male component 370 from female component 330, a disengaging force is applied to male component 370 in the same direction as the engaging force. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the disengaging force first impacts the male component 370 such that the arms 372 of male component 370 release from retaining features 342. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the disengaging force separates the male component 370 from the female component 330. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the disengaging force may also further compress resilient element 350 creating potential energy. When the disengaging force is removed from resilient element 350, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy creating an opposing force large enough to push male component 370 away from female component 330 to facilitate disengagement of male component 370 from female component 330. In the arrangements disclosed herein in FIGS. 73-122, as one example, male component 370 may be configured to engage and disengage female component 330 according to the specific configurations of male component 370 and female component 330 as shown in the figures and described herein.

Alternative Arrangement(s)

With reference to FIGS. 123-147 an alternative arrangement of fastener system 600 is presented. The arrangement shown in FIGS. 123-147 is similar to the system 10 shown in FIGS. 5-9 and as such, the disclosure related to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-9 applies to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 123-147 unless stated specifically herein. The primary difference presented in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 123-147 relates to the orientation of male component 602 and female component 604, female component 604, and male mounting member 606. More specifically, in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 123-147, female component 604 and male component 602 are inverted, so what was previously described as top or upper in the description regarding FIGS. 5-9 may now be described as bottom or lower. Similarly, what was previously described as bottom or lower in the description regarding FIGS. 5-9 may now be described as top or upper. Throughout this present disclosure, the use of top, bottom, upper, lower, or any other directional term is meant to describe the figure as displayed and is not meant to limit or strictly define the component parts. Said another way, the directional language merely describes how the figure is displayed and is not to be construed as limiting the disclosure based on those directional terms.

Female Component 604

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 600 includes female component 604. Female component 604 may also be referred to as socket 604. Female component 604 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 652 with another portion of a substrate 650 via a male component 602. In the arrangement shown, as one example, female component 604 includes tab 640 extending from base 625 of female component 604. In the arrangement shown, as one example, tab 640 may facilitate engagement of male component 602 with female component 604.

Male Mounting Member 606

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 600 includes male mounting member 606. Male mounting member 606 may also be referred to as mounting member 606. Male mounting member 606 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of a portion of a substrate 650 with male component 602. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male mounting member 606 may include a base 608 and a post 610, among other components. In the arrangement shown, as one example, post 610 may be inserted through substrate 650 to secure mounting member 606 to male component 602. A hole may be created by using post 610 or pre-punched prior to inserting post 610 through substrate 650. In the arrangement shown, as one example, base 608 may be configured to provide a support and a securement surface for substrate 650 to be secured between mounting member 606 and male component 602.

In Operation

In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 123-147, as one example, system 600 may be used to secure substrate 650 to substrate 652 using a male component 602, female component 604, and mounting member 606, respectively. Male component 602 or female component 604 may be attached to substrate 650 or substrate 652 using flexible members, such as thread sewn by hand or by machine. Alternatively, substrate 650 may be attached to male component 602 using male mounting member 606 or a plurality of mounting holes 624. In this example embodiment, female component 604 is sewn to substrate 652 via a plurality of mounting holes 638 as a standard button would be. In this example embodiment, lower surface 627 of base 625 of female component 604 may have channels 644 to receive flexible member such as thread.

Once male component 602 and female component 604 have been attached to their respective substrates 650, 652, system 600 may be operated. In the arrangement shown, as one example, male component 602 can be placed near female component 604 to fasten to female component 604. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 622 of male component 602 may be attracted to magnetic component 642 of female component 604. This magnetic attraction between male component 602 and female component 604 helps to facilitate alignment of male component 602 and female component 604 prior to removable attachment of the components 602, 604. In the arrangement shown, as one example, once male component 602 is being magnetically attracted to female component 604, body 612 of male component 602 can be inserted through an open side 634 within outer wall 626 of female component 604. In the arrangement shown, as one example, outer wall 626 and ridge 630 combine to form an inward extending edge 629 of female component 604. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 612 has a top surface 614 and a bottom surface 616, with an outward extending edge 615 extending in between the top surface 614 and bottom surface 616. When body 612 of male component 602 is aligned with base 625 of female component 604, inward extending edge 629 of female component 604 and outward extending edge 615 of male component 602 are in approximately parallel alignment. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 132, as one example, the approximately parallel alignment of inward extending edge 629 of female component 604 and outward extending edge 615 of male component 602 causes frictional engagement preventing lateral pullout of male component 602 from female component 604 along retention axis 646. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 612 of male component 602 may be moved in and out of a cavity 632 of female component 604 through open side 634 of outer wall 626, defined by outer wall ends 628 of outer wall 626. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 622 of male component 602 and magnetic component 642 of female component 604 facilitate attraction, alignment, and fastening of male component 602 and female component 604.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom component 662 and/or outward extending edge 615 of male component 602 may be inserted through open side 634 of outer wall 626 into cavity 632 of female component 604. In this example arrangement, ridge 630 and/or inward extending edge 629 is configured to fit within notch 620 of male component 602 above bottom component 662. When body 612 of male component 602 is aligned with base 625 of female component 604, inward extending edge 629 and/or ridge 630 of female component 604 and outward extending edge 615 and/or bottom component 662 of male component 602 are in approximately parallel alignment. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the approximately parallel alignment of inward extending edge 629 of female component 604 and outward extending edge 615 of male component 602 prevents lateral pullout of male component 602 from female component 604 along retention axis 646. In the arrangement shown, as one example top component 660 of body 612 may be configured to secure outside of cavity 632 of female component 604. In the arrangement shown, as one example, body 612 of male component 602 may be moved in and out of female component 604 through open side 634 of outer wall 626. In the arrangement shown, as one example, magnetic component 622 of aperture 618 of male component 602 and magnetic component 642 of aperture 636 of female component 604 facilitate attraction, alignment, and fastening of male component 602 and female component 604.

From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the fastener systems 10, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 presented herein improves upon the state of the art. Specifically, in one or more arrangements, fastener system 10, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 is presented which: improves upon the state of the art; is safe to operate; is able to be used with limited motor control; has built in alignment support; is relatively easy to build; is relatively friendly to build; can be built relatively quickly and efficiently; is easy to operate; is relatively cost friendly to manufacture; is relatively easy to integrate into existing products; is aesthetically appealing; is robust; is water resistant; is relatively inexpensive; is not easily susceptible to wear and tear; has a long useful life; is efficient to use and operate.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the system without parting from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.