Abstract: The teachings of the present invention, described in part by reference to a specific embodiment in the following specification, illustrate a novel family of pre-stressed and oriented unwoven fiber webs and products constituting these webs, which are produced according to novel methods practiced by utilizing novel apparatus and equipment. More simply stated, patent protection is sought for the product, methods of making the product, and the equipment used in the methods.

Abstract: The present invention teaches a method including the steps of: forming a web of at least a plurality of fibers oriented in at least one predetermined direction, causing a plurality of fibers to be oriented in substantially parallel configuration with respect to one another so as to cause some of said oriented fibers to be interconnected with another at a plurality of portions spaced longitudinally along their respective lengths, causing some of said interconnecting portions initially spaced a first distance from one another to be moved such that they are a second and greater distance from one another so as to enhance the ability of said web to withstand stresses applied thereto.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a unique self-aligning, quick-release coupling system capable of releasably joining any two or more of a great variety of cooperative male/female mating items to be temporarily or permanently joined, at the option of the user. Spring-biased positive ejecting forces within the female sub-assembly otherwise tending to separate these items are used to reliably capture the male component until positive separation is desired. Relatively small adjustable threshold triggering forces are required to initiate separation.In preferred embodiments, the mating members include round or polygonal cross-sections, tailored to the user's needs to facilitate keyed alignment; integrally moulded spring members, choices of dielectric materials for safe use in corrosive environments; and remote control of disengagement.