BI-STABLE FASTENING

摘要

A bi-stable hook component (20) of a touch fastener can bend into, and remai n in, a stable concave position. Another stable position enables initial engagement with a mating component (e.g., a loop component 22). The concave position applies engagement-enhancing tension to the engaged loops (28), and in some cases forces end portions (38) of the hooks (24) into close proximit y with one another to secure the fastening and to produce a curved touch fastener that, as engaged, can better conform to an underlying curved surfac e, such as the contour of a wearer's body. Absorbent articles are provided with such a bi-stable fastening system (48).