Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing structures having a plurality of stems extending away from a fenestrated base to undercut islands projecting over fenestrations in the base. Such structures include slidingly-engaging fastener portions, self-engaging fasteners, uni-directional stepped fasteners, fastening segments integral with larger product components, and other structures with similar aspects. The method includes providing a set of partially bypassing dies to define a fenestrated common cavity contiguous with pluralities of undercut stem chambers and a terminal chamber, filling the cavity with a ductile moldable material, engaging the dies, and releasing the resultant product.

Abstract: A self-engaging touch fastener, separable by peeling, includes portions with a generally thin shell structure and a closely spaced array of bilaterally undercut generally convex protrusions which are directed by proximate oblique stem walls into an interlocking relationship with corresponding receptors when the portions are compressed. Touch fastening products have a non-grabbing non-abrasive texture and may be manufactured of thin plastic films or similar low cost materials using a simple die-cutting/forming method, thus providing a user friendly reliable and economic alternative to hook-and-loop and other presently available fastening systems for connecting flexible materials for applications including packaging, apparel, and disposable products. The device may be furnished as an independent product, as an integrally formed or molded segment of a primary product, or attached to rigid or flexible substrates. An apparatus and method for economically manufacturing such device is also provided.

Abstract: A self-adhering device connects two portions in a surface-to-surface interfaced juxtaposition by resiliently interspersing undercut nodules within corresponding receptors. At least one portion is generally flexible. The device may be configured in diverse configurations including alternative geometries, double-sided embodiments, and embodiments with no greater thickness when attached than when unattached. The method of use includes application of a relative compressive force to the portions which may be optionally provided by a sliding mechanism.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing structures having a plurality of stems extending away from a fenestrated base to undercut islands projecting over fenestrations in the base. Such structures include slidingly-engaging fastener portions, self-engaging fasteners, uni-directional stepped fasteners, fastening segments integral with larger product components, and other structures with similar aspects. The method includes providing a set of partially bypassing dies to define a fenestrated common cavity contiguous with pluralities of undercut stem chambers and a terminal chamber, filling the cavity with a ductile moldable material, engaging the dies, and releasing the resultant product.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing structures having a plurality of stems extending away from a fenestrated base to undercut ends. Such structures include slidingly-engaging fastener portions, hook-and-loop hook portions, self-engaging fastener portions, and other structures with similar aspects. The method includes providing a set of partially bypassing dies to define a fenestrated common cavity contiguous with pluralities of undercut stem chambers, filling the cavity with a moldable material, and ejecting the resultant product. The resultant product includes a plurality of undercut stems spaced away from a base with undersides projecting over fenestrations in the base.

Abstract: Molded surface fasteners are provided which include a fenestrated base structure with sets of at least three undercut segments extending laterally over at least one window, thereby allowing fastening elements of diverse designs to be precisely molded by a set of biparting dies, either as independent attachable products or as an integral part of a product component. Embodiments include fastener portions comprising singular fastening “buttons”, portions with recessed fastening zones, unitary double-sided fasteners, products incorporating multiple fastener types in different locations, and unique self-engaging fasteners. Methods for attaching and assembling various components, utilizing the present fastener types are also provided.

Abstract: Improved Fasteners of the Slidingly Engagable type are provided in uni-directional and multi-directional orientations, in single and double-sided configurations, and in a range of designs which also include provisions for attaching certain embodiments of such fasteners to a substrate material. A method of economically producing such fasteners and products incorporating such fasteners in diverse materials is also disclosed.

Abstract: A portable device and method for supporting a load in a cantilevered disposition relative to a shelf, cabinet, or other extant structure is provided, which device is foldable into a relatively compact entity when not in use. The device includes at least a platform portion 01, a bracing portion 02, and a pivotably attached hanging bracket 03, and can be configured to support such a load in a horizontal or inclined position at a near or relatively distant horizontal or vertical relationship to the extant structure. The device may be independent, attached to, or integrally manufactured with the load.

Abstract: Improved Fasteners of the Slidingly Engagable type are provided in uni-directional and multi-directional orientations, in single and double-sided configurations, and in a range of designs which also include provisions for attaching certain embodiments of such fasteners to a substrate material. A method of economically producing such fasteners and products incorporating such fasteners in diverse materials by utilizing an apparatus which includes a set of interengaging dies is also provided.