Abstract: Yarns and fabrics that include modacrylic fibers are described herein. A yarn and/or fabric may include modacrylic fibers, meta-aramid fibers, anti-static fibers, and optionally para-aramid fibers. In some embodiments, the modacrylic fibers, meta-aramid fibers, and, if present, para-aramid fibers, may each be solution-dyed.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a retractable awning assembly. The retractable awning assembly may include a plurality of roller tube sections, at least two torsion bar sections, a pair of spring-loaded arms, a fabric cover, a plurality of front bar sections, a pair of end caps, a plurality of mounting brackets, and a plurality of hood sections. Methods of assembling the same are provided.

Abstract: Acrylic compositions comprising a hindered amine light stabilizer are described herein. The acrylic composition may be in the form of a fiber, thread, yarn, and/or fabric. Also described herein are methods of making and using the acrylic compositions and articles comprising an acrylic composition as described herein.

Abstract: Techniques for energy production are disclosed. A kinetic fabric for use in a kinetically-activated energy production system is implemented. The kinetic fabric comprises a three-dimensional, layer-based flexible matrix that regains shape after deformation. The fabric further comprises a kinetically activated energy source layer supported between layers of the flexible matrix. The fabric further includes a flexible electrical connection that provides an electrical path between the energy source layer and a terminal on the flexible matrix. The kinetic fabric is deformed with mechanical agitation, and energy is harvested from the energy source layer through the terminal on the flexible matrix. Various embodiments are disclosed including flags, moving vehicles, and shade structures, among others.

Abstract: A reinforcement unit and methods are provided for creating footings for supporting structures, such as a fence post, using a reinforcement unit that has a tower that is generally perpendicular to a base, the tower defining a cavity for receiving a portion of the structure and an anchoring material. The reinforcement unit can include a top portion of a tower that is frangible. The base of the reinforcement unit can further include a pocket (or similar recess) substantially similar in width or diameter to the top portion of the tower such that a second identical reinforcement unit can be inverted and stacked on top of the second reinforcement unit.

Abstract: Techniques for energy production are disclosed. A kinetic fabric for use in a kinetically-activated energy production system is implemented. The kinetic fabric comprises a three-dimensional, layer-based flexible matrix that regains shape after deformation. The fabric further comprises a kinetically activated energy source layer supported between layers of the flexible matrix. The fabric further includes a flexible electrical connection that provides an electrical path between the energy source layer and a terminal on the flexible matrix. The kinetic fabric is deformed with mechanical agitation, and energy is harvested from the energy source layer through the terminal on the flexible matrix. Various embodiments are disclosed including flags, moving vehicles, and shade structures, among others.

Abstract: A knit shade cloth. The shade cloth includes about 10% to about 40% by weight of un-textured yarns comprising at least one of olefin or polyester for strength. The shade cloth includes about 60% to about 90% by weight of at least one synthetic textured yarn for improved hand. The knit shade cloth provides at least about 150 lbs. of initial mean break strength in both a warp direction and weft direction to provide sufficient performance as a shade sail.

Abstract: A resilient yarn, fabric having the resilient yarn, and outdoor products, such as sling furniture, are disclosed. The resilient yarn includes a core made with a thermoplastic elastomer. A sheath at least partially surrounds the core. The sheath includes polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or a blend of PVC and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

Abstract: Acrylic compositions comprising a hindered amine light stabilizer are described herein. The acrylic composition may be in the form of a fiber, thread, yarn, and/or fabric. Also described herein are methods of making and using the acrylic compositions and articles comprising an acrylic composition as described herein.

Abstract: A building-mounted awning. The awning includes a support frame, and a covering provided over the support frame to act as shelter from precipitation, or act as a shade from the sun. The support frame is attached to the building at only one location along a width of the support frame by a single bracket attached to the building.

Abstract: A resilient yarn, fabric having the resilient yarn, and outdoor products, such as sling furniture, are disclosed. The resilient yarn includes a core made with a thermoplastic elastomer. A sheath at least partially surrounds the core. The sheath includes polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or a blend of PVC and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

Abstract: A building-mounted awning. The awning includes a support frame, and a covering provided over the support frame to act as shelter from precipitation, or act as a shade from the sun. The support frame is attached to the building at only one location along a width of the support frame by a single bracket attached to the building.

Abstract: A permeate carrier fabric includes at least some monofilament synthetic yarns to provide adequate stiffness and reduce blockage of permeate flow.

Abstract: A building-mounted awning. The awning includes a support frame, and a covering provided over the support frame to act as shelter from precipitation, or act as a shade from the sun. The support frame is attached to the building at only one location along a width of the support frame.

Abstract: A permeate carrier fabric includes at least some monofilament synthetic yarns to provide adequate stiffness and reduce blockage of permeate flow.

Abstract: A convertible roofing material which includes an outer fabric layer formed at least partially of polymeric coated, core yarns such as a polyester core coated with polyvinyl chloride.

Abstract: A fabric for use in safety apparel comprising a first set of yarns comprising modacrylic fibers, and a second set of yarns comprising anti-static fibers. The fabric meets the Federal Test Method Standard 191A, Method 5931 for electrostatic decay, and the Electrostatic Discharge Association Advisory ADV11.2-1995 voltage potential.

Abstract: A yarn, fabric, and apparel formed from modacrylic fibers and high energy absorptive fibers. When the yarn is formed into a fabric comprised substantially of the yarn, the fabric meets the American Society for Testing and Materials standard for flame resistance and the National Fire Protection Association standard for arc thermal performance exposure.

Abstract: A fabric for use in safety apparel and items of apparel formed substantially from modacrylic yarns and a cationic dye applied to the fabric so that the dyed fabric meets both the American National Standards Institute guidelines for high-visibility safety apparel and the guidelines of the American Society for Testing and Materials for flame resistant textiles.