Abstract: A cushion or pad comprises a first layer of a first synthetic cellular material having a first average cell volume and a second layer of a second synthetic cellular material having a second average cell volume at least ten times greater than the first average cell volume. The first layer is attached to the second layer so that the first layer and the second layer at least partially overlap one another to form a multilayer structure. The layer with the larger average cell volume is a polymeric sheet with at least a substantially planar array of fluid-filled pockets or chambers. The layer with the smaller average cell volume is a foam material with either open cells or closed cells. Further layers of fluid-filled chambers or foam material may be attached to the first two layers.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a substantially rigid water-dispersible article includes the step of mixing together an ionic water-soluble film-forming polymer, a non-ionic water-soluble film-forming polymer, a chemically purified finely divided highly bleached cellulose, and glass fiber wool. Water is added to the dry mixture to form a dough which is subsequently molded into the desired form and dried while being maintained in the molded form. A filler or extender such as talc or paper pulp may be added prior to the molding step. In addition, a wetting agent may be added to accelerate rewetting and dispersal of the article upon disposal thereof, while a hydrophobic composition may be added to the dough to form a water repellant surface layer or film during drying of the molded article.

Abstract: A protective device for reducing incidence of injury from falls comprises a sheet of flexible polymeric material provided with an array of fluid filled chambers and releasable fasteners such as VELCRO strips at spaced apart locations on the sheet for enabling securing of the sheet to a person's hips. The releasable fasteners on the sheet may function to releasably fasten the sheet to a garment such as a coat or robe. The fluid filled bubbles of the sheet material are designed to maximize protection in the areas where enhanced impacts are expected to occur during falls.

Abstract: A laminate structure for acoustical applications which comprises a porous, flexible, non-woven, needle punched mat of inherently non-burning, fine glass or other material fibers affixed as a facing to a sound absorbing, flame retardant, flexible backing such as a layer of open cell foam or a mat of glass or mineral fibers. The invention also contemplates the method of manufacture of such a laminate structure. Depending upon the materials used therefor, the facing and the backing may be joined together by needle punching and subsequent chemical bonding, chemical bonding, flame bonding and, in the case of an open cell foam backing, the backing may be foamed in place on the facing forming an intimate bond therewith.