Abstract: A method for applying loops formed from a supply length of elongate strip material in spaced relationship along a substrate. Lengths are cut from the supply length, and have their ends supported on peripheral surfaces of two circular disks mounted with their axes oriented to position portions of the peripheral surfaces of the disks on which the lengths are positioned at a wide spacing at a first location and to position portions of the peripheral surfaces of the disks at a close spacing significantly closer than the wide spacing at a second location generally diametrically across the disks from the first location and along a path for the substrate. Spaced portions of the lengths are held along the peripheral surfaces of the disks during rotation of the disks to move the predetermined lengths from the first location to the second location thereby forming the lengths into generally U-shaped loops, and those U-shaped loops are transferred and attached to the substrate at the second location.

Abstract: A disposable garment or diaper including a laminate and a hook and loop fastener for fastening together portions of the laminate to secure the diaper to an individual. The fastener includes a loop fastener portion adjacent a first end of the laminate comprising a multiplicity of loops, a pair of flexible elongate polymeric tab assemblies having first end portions attached at opposite sides to the laminate adjacent a second end of the laminate and having distal end portions unattached to the laminate, and hook fastener portions at the distal end portions of the tab assemblies comprising a plurality of projecting hook members adapted to make releasable engagement with the loops.