You can freely build on How George de Mestral Invented Velcro
This patent expired in 1972. Every claim — 1 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Velcro SA
Patent granted
1955
Expired
1972
Forward citations
299
What this patent covers
The patent describes a manufacturing process for creating a fabric with a specialized surface. It involves weaving standard warp and weft threads together with auxiliary threads made of synthetic resin. These auxiliary threads are formed into loops on the surface of the fabric and heat-treated to lock their shape. Finally, the loops are cut near their ends to create flexible, material-engaging hooks that can latch onto a corresponding loop-filled surface.
What is now free to use
All 1 claims of US 2717437 are in the public domain. Specifically:
Claim 1: A METHOD FOR PRODUCING A VELVET TYPE FABRIC CONSISTING IN WEAVING TOGETHER A PLURALITY OF WEFT THREADS AND A PLURALITY O
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover fasteners made from non-synthetic materials like natural cotton or wool.
Does not cover the specific 'loop' side of the fastener, only the method of creating the 'hook' side.
Does not cover adhesive-backed fasteners that do not rely on the woven loop-and-hook mechanism.
Who is building on this today
Velcro Companies remains the primary entity managing the legacy of this invention. Many textile manufacturers now produce generic hook-and-loop fasteners since the original patents have long since expired.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Velcro brand fasteners
NASA space suit closures
Blood pressure cuff straps
Cable management ties
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Velcro SA. US Patent 2717437. Velvet type fabric and method of producing same. Granted 1955, expired 1972. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.