Patent Description:
There are a variety of structures in which a flexible panel, for example made from a fabric or net, is required to be secured to the structure via ropes, cables, elasticated straps and the like. Such panels can include curtains, truck cargo container openings, banners, building facades, building wraps, shade nets, protective nets and the like, for example. Conventionally, such flexible panels are provided with eyelets, grommets or other connectors, which are first manufactured and then affixed to the panels, along one or more edges of the panels. The ropes, cables, elasticated straps or the like can be looped directly through the eyelets/grommets/connectors, or indirectly via rings that are in turn looped through the eyelets/grommets. Some examples of grommets or connectors sometimes used with nets include the "net connector with bridge", model <NUM> or the "net connector" model <NUM>, 8100bh, both provided by Paskal, Israel, and the "Folienplakette WIESEL Universal PA SET; 8Stk", model F50010SET, provided by Fruit Security Austria.

By way of general background, <CIT> describes a curtain lining kit, curtain assembly and method for retrofitting or adding a lining to a separate eyelet curtain. The method involves attaching a plurality of curtain hooks to curtain tape attached to a sheet of lining material and attaching the hooks to curtain rings which have been arranged between the eyelets of an eyelet curtain on a curtain pole. The assembly disclosed comprises a curtain pole, an eyelet curtain mounted on the pole, a lining with attached curtain tape and hooks arranged on the pole through curtain rings which are disposed between the eyelets such that when viewed the curtain rings and lining are not significantly visible.

Also by way of general background, <CIT> discloses a curtain lining kit for adding a lining to a separate eyelet curtain mountable upon a curtain rod without attaching the lining to the eyelet curtain comprises at least one sheet of lining material having a curtain tape attached along and adjacent an upper edge thereof. The kit can further include a plurality of hooks attachable to the curtain tape and a plurality of curtain rings each attachable to a respective one of the curtain hooks. In another embodiment, the at least one sheet of lining material is provided with pairs of adjacent eyelets through which a curtain rod is passed in use. In use, the drop of the first sheet of lining material is less than the drop of the eyelet curtain with which the lining is to be used. The curtain lining kit allows an eyelet curtain to be retrofitted with a lining.

The invention is a structure according to claim <NUM> and a method of providing a structure according to claim <NUM>. According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a mounting strip comprising a strip element and a plurality of engagement elements, each said engagement element including: an anchor portion configured for anchoring the respective engagement element to the strip element; and an engagement portion including a through-opening; wherein at least the anchor portion is provided as an injection molded article, directly molded onto said strip element.

For example, the mounting strip is for use with a panel element, the panel element being different from the panel element.

For example, the mounting strip can comprise an elongate configuration having a longitudinal dimension at least twice a width dimension thereof.

In at least some examples, the mounting strip is configured for affixing the mounting strip with respect to a panel element. Thus at least in such examples the mounting strip is different from the panel element, and optionally the width of the mounting strip is significantly less than the width of the panel element. In other examples the mounting strip is configured as a multi-purpose belt or strap, for facilitating mounting multiple items thereto, for example.

For example, each said engagement element can be provided as an injection molded article, directly molded onto said strip element.

Each engagement portion can be detachably attachable to a respective one of the anchor portions.

The anchor portion can comprise a body interface and the engagement element can comprise an engagement portion interface configured to interface with and be connected to the body interface.

The interfacing can be via any one or more of a screw and thread arrangement, an adhesive connection between a protrusion and a recess or a snap-fit arrangement.

The strip element can comprise a plurality of holes at spaced apart locations along the strip element; wherein the anchor portions can each be formed superposed at one of the plurality of holes, having a first anchor portion and second anchor portion arranged above and below the strip element respectively, such that the first and second anchor portions are connected to one another via a connected portion passing through one of the holes.

The mounting strip can comprise at least one cordelle at an edge of the strip element, and a slot in each of the anchor portions. The slot can comprise a circular portion arranged to engage with the cordelle.

Additionally or alternatively, for example, said through opening can define a passage axis different from a longitudinal axis of the anchor portion. For example, said passage axis can be substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis, or said passage axis can be substantially orthogonal to said longitudinal axis, or said passage axis can be at an acute angle to said longitudinal axis.

The engagement portion can include a loop structure defining said through-opening therein.

The loop structure can be in the form of a body of material at least partially circumscribing and thereby defining the through-opening.

The body of material can comprise at least one partial ring-shaped structure having an opening in the ring structure. The opening can be a gap either at a central portion of the ring distal from the anchoring portion, or at a side portion of the ring between the central portion and the anchoring portion.

The relative sizes of the gap and the through-opening can be such as to allow the loop-structure to engage with a cable passing through the through-opening, and to allow the loop-structure to become disconnected from the cable via the gap under loads above a pre-determined threshold.

A transverse cross-sectional area of the through-opening can be configured to be larger than a transverse cross-sectional area of a connection element configured to be passed therethrough.

The loop structure can be in the form of a body of material fully circumscribing and defining the through-opening. A first part of the loop structure can be defined by the base element, while a second part of the loop structure can be defined by a C-shaped element joined to the base element. The through-opening can be configured to allow passage of a connection element through the loop structure along a passage axis.

In at least some examples, the engagement elements can be arranged on a first edge portion of the strip element.

The mounting strip can comprise two layers joined together at the first edge portion and which, when not connected to a panel, can be separated at a second edge portion of the strip element.

The engagement elements can be a first set of engagement elements, and the mounting strip can comprising a second set of engagement elements arranged on a second edge portion of the strip element, the second edge portion being located at an edge of the strip opposite from that at which the first edge portion is located.

According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a mounting strip comprising a strip element and a plurality of engagement elements, each said engagement element including: an anchor portion configured for anchoring the respective engagement element to the strip element; wherein at least the anchor portion is provided as an injection molded article, directly molded onto said strip element; and wherein, in use, the anchor portion is configured to interface with an engagement portion.

The mounting strip can include an engagement portion provided for each anchor portion, each engagement element comprising the anchor portion and the engagement portion. Each engagement portion can comprise a through-opening.

According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided an assembly including a panel element and at least one mounting strip, wherein the least one mounting strip is affixed with respect to the panel element, the mounting strip being as defined according to the first or second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The mounting strip can be affixed at a second edge portion thereof to the panel element.

The mounting strip can comprise a central portion free of said engagement elements. The mounting strip can be affixed at the central portion thereof to the panel element.

The mounting strip is affixed to an edge of the panel element, or to a portion of the panel element spaced from an edge thereof.

The mounting strip can be affixed to an edge of the panel element, the edge of the panel element being affixed in-between the two layers of the mounting strip at the second edge portion thereof.

Affixing can comprises at least one of sewing, stapling, welding, melting or adhering.

The panel element can comprising at least one further mounting strip affixed thereto.

According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for providing a plurality of engagement elements on a strip element, the engagement elements each comprising an anchor portion configured for anchoring the respective engagement element to the strip element; and an engagement portion including a through-opening, the method comprising: injection molding a plurality of anchor portions spaced apart along an edge of the strip element; and providing an engagement portion for each anchor portion.

The method may comprise at least one of injection molding, interfacing or connecting, each of the engagement portions to a respective one of the anchor portions.

The engagement and anchor portions may be formed in a single step by injection molding.

The method may comprise: providing a plurality of holes at spaced apart locations along the strip element; and forming each of the anchor portions superposed at one of the holes, having a first anchor portion and second anchor portion arranged above and below the strip element respectively, such that the first and second anchor portions are connected to one another via a connected portion passing through one of the holes.

The method may comprise: providing a cordelle at an edge of the strip element, and a slot in each of the anchor portions, the slot comprising a circular portion arranged to engage with the cordelle.

According to a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for fixing a mounting strip to an edge of a panel element, or to a portion of a panel element spaced from an edge thereof, comprising: providing a mounting strip as defined in the first or second aspect, the method comprising affixing the mounting strip to a panel element.

Affixing can comprise at least one of sewing, stapling, welding, melting or adhering.

Affixing can comprise affixing an edge of the mounting strip, or a central portion of the mounting strip, to an edge of a panel element, or to a portion of a panel element spaced from an edge thereof.

According to a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a structure comprising: an assembly as defined in the third aspect; a plurality of mounting points; and at least one connection element; wherein the engagement portions of the engagement elements of the assembly are connected to the plurality of mounting points by the at least one connection element.

The at least one connection element can comprise a cord element threaded in an alternating fashion between the mounting points and the loop structures of the engagement portions.

The at least one connection element can comprise a plurality of hooks, each arranged to connect one of the loop structures of the engagement portions to one of the mounting points.

According to a seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a mounting strip comprising a strip element and a plurality of engagement elements, each said engagement element including:.

Referring to <FIG>, a mounting strip (also referred to interchangeably herein as a strip, or as a compound strip, or as a mounting tape, or as a compound tape, or as a tape) according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter, generally designated <NUM>, comprises a strip element <NUM> (also referred to interchangeably herein as a "tape element" and a "strip member") and a plurality of engagement elements <NUM>.

In at least some examples, the mounting strip <NUM> is configured for mounting the mounting strip to a sheet element or panel <NUM>, and for thereby enabling the panel element <NUM> to be secured to a structure S or the like, optionally including another panel <NUM>, via a connection element <NUM> to provide an assembly. A mounting system <NUM> is thereby provided comprising at least one sheet element <NUM> comprising at least one mounting strip <NUM>, and at least one connection element <NUM>.

The provision of a mounting strip <NUM> separate from the panel element <NUM> can lead to facilitating the affixing of the engagement elements <NUM> indirectly to the panel element <NUM> by means of the ready-to-use mounting strip <NUM> to form a respective assembly,.

Herein, "sheet", "sheet element", "panel" and "panel element" are used interchangeably. The panel <NUM> is made from any suitable or desired flexible sheet material, and can include, for example, sheets that are essentially continuous (and do not have any grids or through-holes), or for example that are essentially non-continuous, i.e., in the form of a mesh or net (and thus have grids of through-holes, each having an open area, and the ratio of the open area to the closed area (provided by the actual material of the panel) can be <NUM>, or less than <NUM>, or greater than <NUM>).

The panel can be for use, for example, as the whole or part of a curtain, truck cargo container opening, banner, building facade, building wrap, shade net, protective net and the like.

For example, the sheets can be made from fabric or textile comprising natural and/or synthetic yarns, for example nylon, polyester, acrylic or other synthetic yarns, plastic material, for example PVC, Polyethylene or Polyurethane, canvas, technical yarns such as Kevlar®, Technora®, Nomex®, Dyneema® and Vectran®, and so on, wherein the fabric can optionally be coated with a suitable coating, such as waterproof, stiffening or other coatings for example. The fabric is optionally capable of being rolled into a compact spiral configuration, for example with respect to a roll axis aligned with a width direction of the panel, and for being unrolled into at least a flat configuration. In at least some examples, the panel <NUM> is made from a flexible material that is not elastically stretchable, or is only mildly stretchable, or substantially stretchable, at least when subjected to regular loads, i.e., the loads for which the panel <NUM> is rated during regular use thereof. While the panel <NUM> can have any suitable shape, in this and other examples the panel <NUM> has a nominally rectangular shape, having a longitudinal dimension (parallel to a longitudinal dimension of the mounting strip <NUM>) that is larger than a width dimension of the panel <NUM>, and the longitudinal dimension and the width dimension of the panel <NUM> are each significantly greater than a thickness or depth dimension thereof. In alternative variations of this example, the width dimension can be the same size or larger than the longitudinal dimension.

In at least this example, the connection element <NUM> is in the form of a cord element, comprising a suitable length of flexible material than can be looped, or entwined, with the engagement elements <NUM> and where desired transfer mechanical loads (static loads and/or dynamic loads) between the panel <NUM> and the structure. Thus, in at least this example, the engagement elements <NUM> are in the form of cord-engaging elements.

Herein "cord element", "cord", "cable element", "cable", "string element", "string", "rope element" and "rope" are used interchangeably. In general the connection element <NUM> in the form of a cord element that can carry and transfer tensile loads but not compressive loads. To this end, the cord element can be, for example, in the form of an elasticated bungee or in the form of a cable. Alternatively, the connection element <NUM> can be in the form of a pole, or a hook, for example, and can carry loads in tension and/or in compression.

In at least this example, and referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, the strip element <NUM> is generally elongate, having a (longitudinal) length dimension L, width dimension D and thickness dimension t. In at least some applications of this and other examples, the length dimension L is so-called "endless"; in other words the strip element <NUM> of a desired length dimension L can be cut or otherwise separated from a roll (or reel or other packaging arrangement) of strip element in which the longitudinal length of the strip element can be much greater than the desired length. Thus, for at least this example, the length dimension L for a particular strip element <NUM> can be varied to suit a particular application, while the width D and thickness t dimensions are maintained constant. Of course, it is also alternatively possible to provide strip elements <NUM> of many different combinations of length dimension, width dimension and thickness dimension, each having any desired length dimension L and/or any desired width dimension D and/or any desired thickness dimension t.

The strip element <NUM> comprises an upper surface <NUM> and lower surface <NUM>, separated by the thickness dimension t. The strip element <NUM> comprises a longitudinal first edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal first edge <NUM>, running along a direction parallel to the length dimension L. The strip element <NUM> comprises also comprises a longitudinal second edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal second edge <NUM>, running along a direction parallel to the length dimension L. The longitudinal first edge <NUM> is spaced from the longitudinal second edge <NUM> by the width dimension W.

The strip element <NUM> comprises at least one cordelle, and in at least this example, the strip element <NUM> comprises one cordelle <NUM> affixed to the strip element <NUM> at the longitudinal first edge portion <NUM> proximate the longitudinal first edge <NUM>. Herein by "cordelle", is meant a thread element or cord for example as described below, which, when enclosed within the strip element <NUM> proximate to the longitudinal first edge <NUM> thereof, provides reinforcement thereto. Such enclosure can be provided for example during an extrusion process of the strip element <NUM>, or can involve a separate step of folding an edge of the strip element <NUM> over and around the thread element, and subsequently securing the thread element in place using attachment arrangements such as adhesives, mechanical fixings such as sewing and stapling, applied heat and/or pressure, etc, and/or by friction. The cordelle <NUM>, when affixed to the strip element <NUM>, has an effective outer diameter D. The cordelle <NUM> is continuous and generally co-extensive with longitudinal first edge <NUM>. In alternative variations of this example, the cordelle can be interrupted, and thus there can be one or more first regions of the longitudinal first edge portion <NUM> proximate the longitudinal first edge <NUM> in which there is no cordelle along the longitudinal first edge <NUM>, interposed with one or more second regions of the longitudinal first edge <NUM> in which there is a cordelle along the longitudinal first edge <NUM>. In yet other alternative variations of this example, the cordelle can be provided laterally displaced from the longitudinal first edge <NUM>, so as to be distal therefrom. In yet other alternative variations of this example, strip element <NUM> comprises more than one cordelle - for example a first cordelle can be provided along the longitudinal first edge <NUM>, and/or a second cordelle can be provided at the longitudinal second edge portion <NUM> proximate and along the longitudinal second edge <NUM>, and/or one or more cordelle can be provided laterally displaced from the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and/or from the longitudinal second edge <NUM>.

While in this example the strip element <NUM> comprises at least one cordelle <NUM>, in some alternative variations of this example, the cordelle <NUM> can be omitted. The cordelle <NUM> is configured for reinforcing the first longitudinal edge portion <NUM>, in particular the first longitudinal edge <NUM>.

In at least this example each cordelle <NUM> is in the form of one or more thread element, having a diameter thicker than the thickness t of the strip element <NUM>. The thread element(s) can be made from a fabric, rope, metal, natural or synthetic polymeric resin, composites and so on, can comprise a single element or multiple elements arranged in a row, and can be coated with a natural or synthetic coating, e.g. a PVC coating. The fabric of the cordelle element can made from natural and/or synthetic yarns, for example nylon, polyester, acrylic or other synthetic yarns, similar to fabrics described above for the sheet element <NUM>.

Many examples of strip elements having a cordelle element are commercially available.

In this and other examples, the mounting strip <NUM> can be affixed to the panel <NUM> using any suitable fixing method, for example via mechanical fixing (for example staples, stitching, sewing, etc.) or welding (for example ultrasonic welding, heat welding, etc.), or via bonding (for example using suitable adhesives optionally including application of heat and/or pressure, e.g. with contact adhesives). Alternative arrangements for affixing include, but are not limited to, clips, studs, rivets, buttons, etc. Any suitable combination for the above affixing arrangements can be used, and the affixing may be a permanent affixing, or a reversible affixing.

The strip element can be made from fabric or textile comprising natural and/or synthetic yarns, for example nylon, polyester, acrylic or other synthetic yarns, plastic material. For example, the strip element <NUM> can be made from one or more of the following: PVC (Polyvinyl chloride), PE (Polyethylene), PP (Polypropylene), PA (Polyamide), PES (Polyester), Polyurethane, canvas, technical yarns such as Kevlar®, Technora®, Nomex®, Dyneema® and Vectran®, and so on, wherein the fabric can optionally be coated with a suitable coating, such as waterproof, stiffening or other coatings for example.

In this example, and referring to <FIG>, the mounting strip <NUM> is affixed to the panel <NUM> via widthwise overlap between respective overlapping portions of the panel <NUM> and of the mounting strip <NUM>, including part or all of the lower surface <NUM> of the strip element <NUM> and a longitudinal edge portion <NUM> of the panel <NUM> in overlying relationship with the lower surface <NUM> of the strip element <NUM>.

In alternative variations of this example, the mounting tape <NUM> can be affixed to the panel <NUM> by being formed integrally therewith.

In other alternative variations of this example, and referring to <FIG>, for example, the strip element <NUM> has a longitudinal second edge portion <NUM> that comprises two layers 200A, 200B, joined together at the longitudinal first edge portion <NUM> which includes the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and the cordelle <NUM>. The second edge portion <NUM> is initially open, as illustrated in <FIG>, and the longitudinal second edge <NUM> of the strip element <NUM> is provided by the transversely separated second edges 225A and 225B of the two layers 200A, 200B, respectively. As shown in the example of <FIG>, the mounting strip <NUM> is affixed to the panel <NUM> by first inserting the longitudinal edge portion <NUM> of panel <NUM> in-between the two layers 200A, 200B, which are then in widthwise overlapping relationship with the longitudinal edge portion <NUM>. Thereafter the panel <NUM> is affixed to the mounting strip <NUM> by affixing the longitudinal edge portion <NUM> of panel <NUM> in-between the two layers 200A, 200B, using any suitable fixing arrangement or method, for example via mechanical fixing (for example staples, stitching, sewing, etc.) or welding (for example ultrasonic welding, heat welding, etc.), or via bonding (for example using suitable adhesives optionally including application of heat and/or pressure, e.g. with contact adhesives).

Referring again to <FIG>, the mounting strip <NUM> comprises a plurality of engagement elements <NUM> affixed at least to the first edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal first edge <NUM>, and optionally also to at least part of the second edge portion <NUM>, in a longitudinal serially spaced relationship, i.e., along the longitudinal dimension L of the mounting strip <NUM>.

In at least this example, each engagement element <NUM> is formed as a unitary article and comprises an anchor portion <NUM> and an engagement portion <NUM> projecting outwardly from the anchor portion <NUM> in a direction away from the strip element <NUM>, in particular in a transverse direction away from the strip element <NUM>. Thus, in at least this example, and also in other examples, the anchor portion <NUM> is different from the engagement portion <NUM>.

The anchor portion <NUM> is configured for anchoring the respective engagement element <NUM> to the strip element <NUM>, in particular with respect to the first edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal first edge <NUM>, and optionally also including at least a portion of the second edge portion <NUM>.

Referring also to <FIG>, in this example the anchor portion <NUM> includes a body <NUM> of suitable material, typically a solid body, in a generally quadrilateral prismatic form with respect to a longitudinal axis AA, of generally rectangular cross-sectional area along lateral planes orthogonal to longitudinal axis AA. The body <NUM> has a transverse slot <NUM> extending outwardly from or near to the axis AA. The slot <NUM> is longitudinally coextensive with the body <NUM>, and thus extends between two longitudinal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The transverse cross-sectional shape of the slot <NUM> includes a generally rectangular portion <NUM> of width T1 and a circular portion <NUM> connected to an inner end of the rectangular portion <NUM>, the circular portion <NUM> having a diameter D1. A profile or shape of the slot <NUM> is complementary to a transverse cross-sectional profile or shape of the first edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal first edge <NUM> and cordelle <NUM>, and thus width T1 and diameter D1 correlate to (and are nominally equal to) the thickness t of the strip element <NUM> and the outer diameter at the cordelle <NUM> (including the diameter D of the cordelle <NUM> plus the thickness (<NUM>*t) of fabric or material around the cordelle <NUM>), respectively.

In view of the slot <NUM>, the body <NUM> can also be considered to have a generally inverted-U shaped transverse cross-section, with two anchoring element <NUM>, <NUM> joined to a base element <NUM>. The anchoring element <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to be located on opposite sides of the strip element <NUM>, and thus when engagement element <NUM> is affixed to the strip element <NUM>, the anchoring elements <NUM>, <NUM> are in gripping relationship with the upper surface <NUM> and lower surface <NUM>, respectively, of the strip element <NUM>.

In at least this example, the engagement portion <NUM> is joined with the body <NUM>, in particular with the base element <NUM>. Such joining may be by application of fixing arrangements such as welding and adhering for example, or can be by integral forming, such as by casting, injection molding or other methods for example. The engagement portion <NUM> includes a loop structure <NUM> defining an opening <NUM> therein.

As will become clear herein, in at least this example, engagement portion <NUM>, in particular the loop structure <NUM>, is in the form of a solid body of material. The solid body of the loop structure <NUM> comprises a base edge 360c joined with the base element <NUM> along a length thereof parallel to the longitudinal axis thereof, such that two longitudinal ends 360a, 360b of the loop structure extend to the two longitudinal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The respective opening is circumscribed and thereby defined by the loop structure <NUM> and in this example takes the form of a circular bore passing therethrough along a passage axis PA.

In this example, as seen in <FIG>, a profile of an outer surface the loop structure <NUM>, when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the passage axis, comprises a central portion 360d spaced radially outwardly of the bore opening <NUM> in the form of an arc having a centre of curvature coincident with the passage axis PA and an arc length of less than <NUM>°, and two sloped linear portions 360e, each being tangential to the central portion 360d at an end thereof and extending from the central portion 360d, away from the passage axis PA, to the two longitudinal ends 360a, 360b of the loop structure <NUM>.

The opening <NUM> is dimensioned, for example having an open area and/or width, larger than the transverse dimensions of the respective connection element <NUM>, for example the transverse cross-sectional area and/or transverse width (or diameter), respectively, of the connection element <NUM>. In this connection, the term "transverse" refers to being along a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the connection element <NUM>. In this manner, the connection element <NUM> can easily be threaded, looped or otherwise connected to and/or through the opening <NUM>.

Referring in particular to <FIG>, in at least this example the loop structure <NUM> is in the form of a solid body of material fully circumscribing and thereby defining the opening <NUM>. The opening <NUM> of the loop structure <NUM> allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> through the loop structure <NUM> along the passage axis PA.

Optionally, the body <NUM> can have a plurality of ridges 325a, for example in the form of transverse ribs, formed on the outer surface of the body <NUM> extending in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>.

In this example, the passage axis PA is nominally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>.

By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> provide dimensional data (in mm) for various parts of the engagement element <NUM> (with general tolerance of, for example, ±<NUM>), according to one implementation of this example. In alternative implementations of this example, the dimensional data can be changed pro-rata, for example all annotated dimensions can be increased or decreased in the same proportion, for example can be increased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on, or decreased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on.

An alternative variation of the example of engagement element <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, in this example the anchor portion <NUM> includes a body <NUM> of suitable material, typically a solid body, in a generally cylindrical form with respect to a longitudinal axis AA. The body <NUM> has a radial slot <NUM> extending outwardly from or near to the axis AA. The slot <NUM> is longitudinally coextensive with the body <NUM>, and thus extends between two longitudinal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The transverse cross-sectional shape of the slot <NUM> includes a generally rectangular portion <NUM> of width T1 and a circular portion <NUM> connected to an inner end of the rectangular portion <NUM>, the circular portion <NUM> having a diameter D1. A profile or shape of the slot <NUM> is complementary to a transverse cross-sectional profile or shape of the first edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal first edge <NUM> and cordelle <NUM>, and thus width T1 and diameter D1 correlate to (and are nominally equal to) the thickness t of the strip element <NUM> and the outer diameter at the cordelle <NUM> (including the diameter D of the cordelle <NUM> plus the thickness (<NUM>*t) of fabric or material around the cordelle <NUM>), respectively.

In at least this example, the engagement portion <NUM> is joined with the body <NUM>, in particular with the base element <NUM>. The engagement portion <NUM> includes a loop structure <NUM> defining an opening <NUM> therein.

As will become clear herein, in at least this example, engagement portion <NUM>, in particular the loop structure <NUM>, is in the form of a ring of material partially circumscribing and thereby defining the respective opening <NUM>.

Referring in particular to <FIG>, in at least this example the loop structure <NUM> is in the form of a ring of material fully circumscribing and thereby defining the opening <NUM>. In this example, one part <NUM> of the loop structure <NUM> is defined by the base element <NUM>, while the remainder of the loop structure <NUM> is defined by a second, C-shaped part <NUM> joined to the base element <NUM>. The opening <NUM> of the loop structure <NUM> allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> through the loop structure <NUM> along a passage axis PA.

Optionally, the body <NUM> can have a plurality of ridges 325a, for example in the form of longitudinal channels, formed on the outer surface of the body <NUM> extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>.

Thus, referring also to <FIG>, in this example the anchor portion <NUM> includes a body <NUM> of suitable material, typically a solid body, in a generally cylindrical form with respect to a longitudinal axis AA. The body <NUM> has a radial slot <NUM> extending outwardly from or near to the axis AA. The slot <NUM> is longitudinally coextensive with the body <NUM>, and thus extends between the two longitudinal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The transverse cross-sectional shape of the slot <NUM> includes a generally rectangular portion <NUM> of width T1 and a circular portion <NUM> connected to the inner end of the rectangular portion <NUM>, the circular portion <NUM> having a diameter D1. The profile or shape of the slot <NUM> is complementary to the transverse cross-sectional profile or shape of the first edge portion <NUM> including longitudinal first edge <NUM> and cordelle <NUM>, and thus width T1 and diameter D1 correlate to (and are nominally equal to) the thickness t of the strip element <NUM> and diameter D of the cordelle <NUM>, respectively.

In view of the slot <NUM>, the body <NUM> can also be considered to have a generally inverted-U shaped transverse cross-section, with two anchoring element <NUM>, <NUM> joined to a base element <NUM>. The anchoring element <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to be located on opposite sides of the strip element <NUM>, and thus when engagement element <NUM> is affixed to the strip element <NUM>, the anchoring elements <NUM>, <NUM> are in gripping relationship with the upper surface <NUM> and lower surface <NUM>, respectively.

The opening <NUM> is dimensioned, for example has an open area and/or width, larger than the transverse dimensions of the respective connection element <NUM>, for example the transverse cross-sectional area and/or transverse width (or diameter), respectively, of the connection element <NUM>.

Optionally, the body <NUM> can have a plurality of ridges 325a, for example in the form of longitudinal channels, formed on the outer surface of the body <NUM>.

By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> provide dimensional data (in mm) for various parts of the engagement element <NUM> (with tolerance of, for example, ±<NUM>), according to one implementation of this example. In alternative implementations of this example, the dimensional data can be changed pro-rata, for example all annotated dimensions can be increased or decreased in the same proportion, for example can be increased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on, or decreased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on.

The following is applicable to any of the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, or indeed, any of the examples in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> described below.

As already mentioned, and referring again to <FIG>, the engagement elements <NUM> are affixed to the first longitudinal edge <NUM> in longitudinal spaced relationship in which consecutive engagement elements <NUM> are longitudinally spaced from one another by a longitudinal spacing J (see <FIG>). In this example the longitudinal spacing J is the same as, or greater than, the longitudinal dimension K of the body <NUM>. For example, the ratio J:K can be any desired number from about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or greater than <NUM>, for example any one of <NUM>, <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the ratio J:K can be within any range N to M, wherein N is any number chosen from the group of <NUM>, <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and wherein M is any number chosen from the group of <NUM>, <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>,<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In any case, in at least the above examples, the engagement elements <NUM> are injection-molded directly onto the strip member <NUM>, and are made from a material suitable for this purpose, for example thermoplastic materials, including any one or more of the following materials, for example: POM (Polyoxymethylene), PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate), PA (Polyamide), acrylic polymers such as PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate), PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), and so on. For this purpose, and according to one example, the strip member <NUM> is placed into a suitable mold having a plurality of serially disposed mold cavities, each corresponding and complementary to the outer shape of the engagement element <NUM> to be formed, and suitable material is injected into the mold cavities to thereby form by injection molding the respective engagement elements <NUM> directly onto the strip member <NUM>.

Optionally, the strip member <NUM> can be formed with at least one through-hole (not shown) formed at a location at which each anchoring element <NUM>, <NUM> is to be formed in a superposed manner. Thus, as the anchoring elements <NUM>, <NUM> are injection-molded onto the strip member <NUM>, integrally straddling the first edge <NUM> and cordelle <NUM>, the anchoring elements <NUM>, <NUM> further include an integral and uninterrupted material connection between the two the anchoring elements <NUM>, <NUM> via the through-hole.

In one example, and referring to <FIG>, in one application of the above example, two panels <NUM> are placed side by side such that their respective mounting strips <NUM> are facing one another. The two panels <NUM> are secured together by passing a connection element <NUM>, in the form of a cord element, through the respective openings <NUM> of the respective engagement elements <NUM> of the respective mounting strips <NUM> in an alternating manner between the panels <NUM>. Applying tension to the connection element <NUM> brings the two panels <NUM> together and secures the two together.

In another example, and referring to <FIG>, in another application of the above example, one panel <NUM> is secured to a bracket <NUM> having a plurality of connection elements <NUM>, each connection element <NUM> being in the form of one or more hooks. This securing is accomplished by hooking each hook through the respective openings <NUM> of the respective engagement elements <NUM> of the respective mounting strip <NUM> of the panel <NUM>.

An alternative variation of the example of engagement elements <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the relative thickness of the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular of C-shaped part <NUM> relative to the outer diameter or to the longitudinal dimension K of the body <NUM>, is greater than in the example of <FIG>. By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> provide dimensional data (in mm) for various parts of the engagement element <NUM> (with tolerance of, for example, ±<NUM>), according to one implementation of this variation of the example of <FIG>. In yet other alternative implementations of this variation of the example of <FIG>, the dimensional data can be changed pro-rata, for example all annotated dimensions can be increased or decreased in the same proportion, for example can be increased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on, or decreased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on.

Another alternative variation of the example of engagement elements <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the relative orientation of the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular of C-shaped part <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>, is different from that in the example of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the relative orientation of the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular of C-shaped part <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>, is such that the opening <NUM> of the loop structure <NUM> allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> through the loop structure <NUM> along a passage axis PA, wherein the passage axis PA is nominally non-orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>. In the example of <FIG> the passage axis PA is nominally parallel to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, while in alternative variations of this example, the passage axis PA can be at any acute angle to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, for example any angle including any one of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°. Alternatively or additionally, the aforesaid acute angle can be in any one of the following ranges: <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°. By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> provide dimensional data (in mm) for various parts of the engagement element <NUM> (with tolerance of, for example, ±<NUM>), according to one implementation of this variation of the example of <FIG>. In yet other alternative implementations of this variation of the example of <FIG>, the dimensional data can be changed pro-rata, for example all annotated dimensions can be increased or decreased in the same proportion, for example can be increased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on, or decreased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on.

It is to be noted that in yet other alternative variations of the above examples, the corresponding loop structure is in the form of a ring of material that while fully circumscribing and thereby defining the respective opening, is nevertheless in a "split ring" configuration, or "cotter ring" configuration, or "kickout ring" configuration. In such configurations, the corresponding loop structure is in the form of an open helical loop, allowing for the insertion of another closed loop or ring into the loop structure in general orthogonal configuration. Alternatively, there may be provided two partial-rings placed adjacent to one another, with or without a gap in between.

Thus, another alternative variation of the example of engagement element <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular of C-shaped part <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>, is different from that in the example of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular C-shaped part <NUM>, is in the form of an open helical loop. More specifically, the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular of C-shaped part <NUM>, is formed as two J-shaped parts 364A, 364B in transverse partial overlapping relationship. In this example the two J-shaped parts 364A, 364B are in abutment transversely, while in alternative variations of this example a small transverse gap can be provided between the two J-shaped parts 364A, 364B (see below for example regarding the example of <FIG>). The partial transverse overlap between the two J-shaped parts 364A, 364B provides for corresponding loop openings 369A, 369B, respectively, that allows access to the opening <NUM> via resilient transient separation of the two J-shaped parts 364A, 364B. Thus, another ring element (not shown) can be looped into engagement with the loop structure <NUM>, in particular with C-shaped part <NUM>. In any case, the opening <NUM> of the loop structure <NUM> allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> (or another ring element) through the loop structure <NUM> along a passage axis PA. In the example of <FIG>, the passage axis PA is nominally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>; in alternative variations of this example the corresponding open loop structure of the corresponding loop structure <NUM> can be similar to the example of <FIG>, for example, and in such a case the passage axis PA is nominally parallel to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>; in yet other alternative variations of this example, the passage axis PA can be at any acute angle to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, for example any angle including any one of: <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°. Alternatively or additionally, the aforesaid acute angle can be in any one of the following ranges: <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°.

<FIG> shows an alternative arrangement for an engagement element <NUM>, having a body <NUM> comprising a longitudinal axis AA. The corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular of C-shaped part <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>, is different from that in the example of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, is in the form of two partial-rings 364A, 364B having a broken-U-type shape, parallel to one another and spaced by a gap G. In this example, the two broken-U-shaped parts 364A, 364B each comprise a loop opening 369A, 369B, respectively in the broken-part of the U-shape, that allows access to the opening <NUM>. Thus, another ring element (not shown) can be looped into engagement with the loop structure <NUM>. In any case, the opening <NUM> of the loop structure <NUM> allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> (or another ring element) through the loop structure <NUM> along a passage axis PA. The two loop openings 369A, 369B of the two partial-rings 364A, 364B having a broken-U-type shape are at opposite sides of the loop structure <NUM>, because the two partial-rings 364A, 364B face in opposite direction. In this way, a connection element <NUM> (or another ring element) passing through the opening <NUM> cannot be accidentally disengaged therefrom by sliding to one side or the other. In the example of <FIG>, the passage axis PA is nominally parallel to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>; in alternative variations of this example the corresponding open loop structure of the corresponding loop structure <NUM> can be similar to the example of <FIG>, for example, and in such a case the passage axis PA is nominally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>; in yet other alternative variations of this example, the passage axis PA can be at any acute angle to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, for example any angle including any one of: <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°. Alternatively or additionally, the aforesaid acute angle can be in any one of the following ranges: <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°. Alternatively or additionally, the two partial-rings 364A, 364B having a broken-U-type shape may be orientated at different angles to one another, such that the passage axis PA may comprise a bend, curve or discontinuity between one partial-ring 364A, 364B and the next.

By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> provide dimensional data (in mm) for various parts of the engagement element <NUM> (with general tolerance of, for example, ±<NUM>), according to one implementation of this variation of the example of <FIG>. In yet other alternative implementations of this variation of the example of <FIG>, the dimensional data can be changed pro-rata, for example all annotated dimensions can be increased or decreased in the same proportion, for example can be increased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on, or decreased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on.

It is to be noted that in yet other alternative variations of the above examples, the corresponding loop structure is in the form of a partial ring of material that only partially circumscribes and thereby defines the respective opening. Thus, another alternative variation of the example of engagement elements <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrated in <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular C-shaped part <NUM>, is different from that in the example of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG> the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular C-shaped part <NUM>, only partially circumscribes the respective opening <NUM>, which, as in other examples, allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> transversely through side opening <NUM> (made by the gap in the "C") and also through the loop structure <NUM> along a passage axis PA. In the example of <FIG> the loop structure <NUM> is in the form of a "C" or a hook, and allows the corresponding engagement element <NUM> to be hooked to a suitable structure.

Alternatively, as shown in the example of <FIG>, the corresponding loop structure <NUM>, in particular C-shaped part <NUM>, can be different from that in the example of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, the opening <NUM> (made by the gap in the "C") is a central opening rather than a side-opening. The opening <NUM> allows for passage of the connection element <NUM> transversely through the opening <NUM> and also through the loop structure <NUM> along a passage axis PA. Since the loop structure <NUM> is in the form of a "C" or a hook, the corresponding engagement element <NUM> can be hooked, or clipped onto to a suitable structure. For example, a suitable structure can comprise a cable, and the loop structure <NUM> may be configured to disconnect from the cable, by the cable passing through the gap or opening <NUM> under applied loads above a pre-determined threshold.

In the examples of <FIG> the respective passage axis PA is nominally parallel to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>. In alternative variations of the example of <FIG> the respective passage axis PA is nominally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, while in alternative variations of this example, the passage axis PA can be at any acute angle to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, for example any angle including any one of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°. Alternatively or additionally, the aforesaid acute angle can be in any one of the following ranges: <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°. By way of non-limiting example, <FIG> provide dimensional data (in mm) for various parts of the engagement element <NUM> (with tolerance of, for example, ±<NUM>), according to one implementation of this variation of the example of <FIG>. In yet other alternative implementations of this variation of the example of <FIG>, the dimensional data can be changed pro-rata, for example all annotated dimensions can be increased or decreased in the same proportion, for example can be increased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on, or decreased by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and so on.

For example, the engagement elements <NUM> of the example of <FIG> can be affixed with respect to the strip element <NUM> in an alternating manner, i.e., wherein each successive engagement element <NUM> in the longitudinal direction AA has the opening <NUM> of the C-shaped hook facing a direction opposite from the direction faced by the opening <NUM> of the previous engagement element <NUM>.

In the examples illustrated in <FIG> the corresponding engagement elements <NUM> are contemplated to be unitary structures, in which the anchor portion <NUM> is integrally formed with the respective engagement portion <NUM>; in particular, the engagement elements <NUM> are injection molded directly to the strip element <NUM>, as discussed above. However, in alternative variations of the above examples, the anchor portion <NUM> is not integrally formed with the respective engagement portion <NUM>. Rather, the anchor portion <NUM> of the engagement elements <NUM> is injection molded directly to the strip element <NUM>, and the engagement portion <NUM> (which is manufactured separately from the anchor portion <NUM>) is affixed to the anchor portion <NUM> after this is injection molded to the strip element <NUM>. Alternatively, the anchor portion <NUM> of the engagement elements <NUM> is injection molded directly to the strip element <NUM> and concurrently also to the engagement portion <NUM>.

Thus, referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, in another alternative variation of the above examples, the respective engagement element <NUM> comprises an anchor portion <NUM> in the form of body <NUM>, substantially similar to body <NUM> as disclosed above for the examples of <FIG>, mutatis mutandis, with the main difference being that in the example of <FIG> there is provided a body interface <NUM> for affixing to the respective engagement portion <NUM> which is provided separately from the anchor portion <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, <FIG>, the body interface <NUM> is in the form of a bore, which may be a blind-bore or a through-bore, into the body <NUM>.

In this example, there are a variety of different engagement portions <NUM>, each of which can be affixed to the corresponding body <NUM>. The different engagement portions <NUM> include: a first engagement portion 340A, a second engagement portion 340B, and a third engagement portion 340C.

In this example, the anchor portion <NUM> and the engagement portion <NUM> can be made from the same materials or from different materials. For example, if made from the same materials, these materials can be similar to those disclosed above for the other examples illustrated in <FIG>, mutatis mutandis. For example, if made from different materials, the materials for the anchor portion <NUM> can be similar to those disclosed above for the other examples illustrated in <FIG>, mutatis mutandis, while the engagement portion <NUM> can be made from any other material, for example metal, wood, composites, etc..

The anchor portion <NUM> in this and other examples can be made from the same material as the strip element <NUM>. Alternatively, the anchor portion <NUM> in this and other examples can be made from a different material from the strip element <NUM>.

The first engagement portion 340A is in the form of a closed loop structure, or closed loop member 360A having an engagement portion interface <NUM>. The engagement portion interface <NUM> is substantially complementary to the body interface <NUM> and is configured for affixing to the body interface <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the engagement portion interface <NUM> comprises an external screw thread, while the body interface <NUM> is in the form of a bore having an internal screw thread substantially complementary to the aforesaid external screw thread, thereby enabling the first engagement portion 340A to be screwed into the anchor portion <NUM>. In alternative variations of the above example any other suitable arrangement can be used for engagement portion interface <NUM> and the body interface <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> the engagement portion interface <NUM> can comprise a shaft that is received in the body interface <NUM>, for example in a bore provided in the body interface <NUM>, and a suitable adhesive, solder, weld or other material or arrangement can be used to bond the two together. Alternatively or additionally, for example, as shown in <FIG>, the engagement portion interface <NUM> can comprise a snap-fit arrangement, for example having a semi-circular clasp with two end engagement portions 420a configured to snap-fit into, slide into, or otherwise engage with longitudinal grooves and/or ribs of the body interface <NUM>.

As shown particularly in <FIG>, the second engagement portion 340B is in the form of a loop structure 360B having an engagement portion interface <NUM>. The loop structure 360A is in the form of an open helical loop, allowing for the insertion of another closed loop or ring into the loop structure in general orthogonal configuration. Alternatively, the loop structure may be in the form of two partial-rings placed against one another as described above, for example, as shown in <FIG>, in which case each partial-ring 364A, 364B may be attached via a separate engagement portion interface <NUM> to the body interface <NUM>. Although the second engagement portion 340B is not depicted in any of <FIG>, the engagement portion interface <NUM> can be similar to any of the engagement portion interfaces <NUM> described above with respect to the first engagement portion 340A, mutatis mutandis, for interfacing with the corresponding body interface <NUM>.

The third engagement portion 340C is in the form of an open loop structure 360C having an engagement portion interface <NUM>. The open loop structure 360C is in the form of a "C" or hook, i.e. in the form of a partial ring of material that only partially circumscribes and thereby defines the respective opening. The engagement portion interface <NUM> can be similar to any of the engagement portion interfaces <NUM> disclosed above with respect to the first engagement portion 340A, mutatis mutandis, for interfacing with the corresponding body interface <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, each one of the different engagement portions <NUM> (i.e. the first engagement portion 340A, or the second engagement portion 340B, or the third engagement portion 340C) can be affixed to the anchor portion <NUM> (via the respective engagement portion interface <NUM> and the body interface <NUM>) at any desired orientation with respect to one another, such that the respective passage axis PA of the respective different engagement portion <NUM> is nominally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>. In alternative variations of the examples of <FIG>, the different engagement portions 340A or 340B or 340C can be affixed at an orientation such that the passage axis PA is nominally parallel to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, while in alternative variations of this example, the affixing can be at an orientation such that the passage axis PA can be at any acute angle to the longitudinal axis AA of the body <NUM>, for example any angle including any one of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°. Alternatively or additionally, the aforesaid acute angle can be in any one of the following ranges: <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°, <NUM>° to <NUM>°.

In the example of <FIG>, each one of the different engagement portions <NUM> (i.e. the first engagement portion 340A, or the second engagement portion 340B, or the third engagement portion 340C) can be affixed to the anchor portion <NUM>, via any one of the respective engagement portion interfaces <NUM> and the corresponding body interfaces <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in an alternative variation of the above examples, the mounting strip <NUM> (for example according to any one of the above examples or variations thereof) is not mounted to the panel <NUM> at an edge thereof, but rather in overlapping relationship with another part of the panel <NUM> spaced from the edge of the panel <NUM>. In such a case, the longitudinal second edge portion <NUM> is affixed to a surface of the panel <NUM> using any suitable fixing method, for example via mechanical fixing (for example staples, stitching, sewing, etc.) or welding (for example ultrasonic welding, heat welding, etc), or via bonding (for example using suitable adhesives optionally including application of heat and/or pressure, e.g. with contact adhesives). On the other hand, the longitudinal first edge portion <NUM> is not affixed to the panel <NUM>, and thus allows flexibility of movement and orientation of the respective engagement elements <NUM> with respect to the panel <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in yet another alternative variation of the above examples, the mounting strip <NUM> (for example according to any one of the above examples or variations thereof) comprises a first plurality of engagement elements <NUM> affixed at least to the longitudinal first edge <NUM>, including at least a part of the first edge portion <NUM>, in longitudinal serially spaced relationship, i.e., along the longitudinal dimension L of the mounting strip <NUM>. In addition, in the example of <FIG>, the mounting strip <NUM> further comprises a second plurality of engagement elements <NUM> affixed to the longitudinal second edge <NUM>, including at least part of the second edge portion <NUM>, in longitudinal serially spaced relationship, i.e., along the longitudinal dimension L of the mounting strip <NUM>. This arrangement leaves a central portion <NUM> of the strip element <NUM> free of said engagement elements <NUM>. The central portion <NUM> is flanked on either transverse side (longitudinally extending edge) thereof by the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and longitudinal second edge <NUM>. Also in this example, each engagement element <NUM> can be formed as an integral or unitary article (or as a two-component article, for example corresponding to the example of <FIG>, mutatis mutandis) and comprises an anchor portion <NUM>, and an engagement portion <NUM> projecting outwardly from the anchor portion <NUM> in a transverse direction away from the strip element <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the strip element <NUM> comprises at least one cordelle <NUM> affixed to the strip element <NUM> at the longitudinal first edge <NUM>, and at least one cordelle <NUM> affixed to the strip element <NUM> at the longitudinal second edge <NUM>. Each such cordelle <NUM> is continuous and generally co-extensive with the respective longitudinal first edge <NUM>, and longitudinal second edge <NUM>. In alternative variations of this example, one or both such cordelles can be interrupted, and thus there can be one or more first regions of the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and/or of the longitudinal second edge <NUM> in which there is no cordelle along the longitudinal first edge <NUM>, respectively interposed with one or more second regions of the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and/or of the longitudinal second edge <NUM> in which there is a cordelle along the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and/or along the longitudinal second edge <NUM>, respectively. While in this example the strip element <NUM> comprises at least one cordelle <NUM> along each of the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and the longitudinal second edge <NUM>, in some alternative variations of this example, the cordelle <NUM> can be omitted from both or from one of the longitudinal first edge <NUM> and the longitudinal second edge <NUM>. Each cordelle <NUM> is configured for reinforcing the respective longitudinal edge portion, in particular the respective longitudinal edge.

In the example of <FIG>, and referring also to <FIG>, the respective mounting strip <NUM> can be affixed to panel <NUM> at an edge thereof, or to any other part of the panel <NUM> spaced from the edge of the panel <NUM>, and in overlapping relationship therewith. In such cases, the central portion <NUM> is affixed to a surface of the panel <NUM> using any suitable fixing method, for example via mechanical fixing (for example staples, stitching, sewing, etc.) or welding (for example ultrasonic welding, heat welding, etc), or via bonding (for example using suitable adhesives optionally including application of heat and/or pressure, e.g. with contact adhesives). On the other hand, the longitudinal first edge portion <NUM> and the longitudinal second edge portion <NUM> are not affixed to the panel <NUM>, and thus allows flexibility of movement and orientation of the respective engagement elements <NUM> with respect to the panel <NUM>.

Alternatively, the mounting strip <NUM> according to the example of <FIG>, can be used as a stand-alone item, and can be used for example as a multi-use belt or strap, for facilitating mounting multiple items thereto, for example.

It is to be noted that in each of the examples disclosed herein and alternative variations thereof, in particular with reference to <FIG>, each respective mounting strip can include a plurality of engagement element <NUM> in which all the engagement element <NUM> that are affixed to the respective strip element <NUM> are identical to one-another.

Alternatively, in each of the examples disclosed herein and alternative variations thereof, in particular with reference to <FIG>, each respective mounting strip can include a plurality of engagement element <NUM> in which all the engagement element <NUM> that are affixed to the respective strip element <NUM> are not all identical to one another, and in fact can include different examples of the engagement element <NUM> affixed to the respective strip element <NUM>. For example, one such mounting strip <NUM> can include one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>, and/or one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>, one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>, one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>, one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>, one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>; one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>, one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of <FIG>; one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of Figs. <NUM>(a) to <NUM>(e). As another example, another such mounting strip <NUM> can include one or more engagement elements <NUM> corresponding to the example of any one or more of <FIG>, having a variety of engagement portions 340A, 340B and/or 340C. Similarly, the respective strip element <NUM> can correspond to the example of <FIG> or the example of <FIG>, for example. Furthermore for example, each such mounting strip <NUM> can include a plurality of engagement elements <NUM> on one or on both longitudinal edges of the respective strip element <NUM>.

In at least some examples, the mounting strip <NUM> can further include one or more engagement elements <NUM> at one or both longitudinal ends of the respective strip element <NUM>.

In at least some examples, the mounting strip <NUM> can further include one or more clasping arrangements at one or both longitudinal ends of the respective strip element <NUM>.

As is evident from the above disclosure, in at least some examples according to the above aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the mounting strip <NUM> is provided as a stand-along article, different from the panel <NUM>, itself. This arrangement can allow for a great amount of versatility, particularly in the use of the mounting strip <NUM> per se, and also in the use of the mounting strip <NUM> for indirectly providing a panel <NUM> with engagements elements <NUM>. For example, any one of a variety of mounting strips <NUM> (for example each having strip elements <NUM> of different widths and/or having different types of engagements elements <NUM>) can be chosen for affixing to any particular configuration or type of panel <NUM>, and furthermore such affixing can be made easily and in a timely manner. Furthermore, in at least some examples according to the above aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the mounting strip <NUM> can provide further mechanical strength to the panel <NUM>. Furthermore, in at least some examples according to the above aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, a damaged mounting strip <NUM> that is already affixed to a panel <NUM> can be replaced with another mounting strip <NUM>, by first removing all or part of the damaged mounting strip <NUM>, and in at least some such cases this can be achieved without significantly reducing the mechanical integrity of the assembly with the panel <NUM>.

However, in at least some other examples according to other aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the strip element <NUM> can be in the form of the panel <NUM> as described in more detail herein, thus the strip element <NUM> is not different from the panel <NUM>. In such cases the engagement elements <NUM> are thus injection molded essentially directly to the respective panel element <NUM>. However, at least some of the features that arise from having the mounting strip <NUM> produced as an independent article, separate and different from the panel element <NUM>, for example as in the examples disclosed above with reference to the attached figures, are not applicable to at least some applications of this other aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter in which strip element <NUM> is in the form of the panel <NUM>.

Finally, it should be noted that the word "comprising" as used throughout the appended claims is to be interpreted to mean "including but not limited to".

Claim 1:
A structure comprising an assembly, a plurality of mounting points, and at least one connection element (<NUM>), wherein:
the assembly includes a panel element (<NUM>) and at least one mounting strip (<NUM>), wherein the least one mounting strip (<NUM>) is affixed with respect to the panel element (<NUM>),
the mounting strip (<NUM>) comprising a strip element (<NUM>) and a plurality of engagement elements (<NUM>), each said engagement element (<NUM>) including:
an anchor portion (<NUM>) configured for anchoring the respective engagement element (<NUM>) to the strip element (<NUM>); and
an engagement portion (<NUM>) including a through-opening wherein said engagement portion (<NUM>) includes a loop structure (<NUM>) defining said through-opening therein;
wherein at least the anchor portion (<NUM>) is provided as an injection molded article, directly molded onto said strip element (<NUM>);
wherein the engagement portions (<NUM>) of the engagement elements (<NUM>) of the assembly are connected to the plurality of mounting points by the at least one connection element (<NUM>); and
characterized in that
the at least one connection element (<NUM>) comprises a cord element threaded in an alternating fashion between the mounting points and the loop structures (<NUM>) of the engagement portions (<NUM>).