Hook fastener structures

Abstract

Hook structures for use in hook and loop or hook and engagement material fastening applications. Structures according to embodiments of the invention include hooks which extend from bases which in turn extend from a foundation and also extend laterally across the structures. The bases are separated by valleys which also extend laterally across the structures, whose height can be uniform laterally in the structures or varied. The bases provide suitable strength and support to allow the hooks to be robust and strong for permanent or semi-permanent fastening applications, while the valleys interposed between bases allow the hooks to penetrate sufficiently deeply into the engagement material for effective fastening to occur. Such structures may be formed according to processes which physically or conceptually employ various layers to support hooks, retention barrier members such as fingers interposed laterally between hooks, and/or for spacing such hooks and barriers as desired. Accordingly, structures can be formed according to the present invention using conventional ring-molding techniques (or any other desired techniques), to provide hook fasteners with excellent fastening strength and other desired properties typically required, for example, in semi-permanent or permanent fastening applications.