Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a layer structure, such as an airlaid fibrous web, include a supplying mechanism for providing a stream of particulate material, such as fibers. Also included is a substantially endless, foraminous forming belt which has an appointed outward surface and a minimum thickness of at least about 3/16 inch. A selected contour is formed into the outward surface of the belt at selected locations, and the contour is distributed along a lengthwise machine-direction of the forming belt. The forming belt is configured to flex along a thickness direction thereof, and to recoverably bend and substantially straighten when traveling along a selected belt path circuit. A conveying mechanism moves the forming belt past the supplying mechanism along a forming path section of the belt circuit which is substantially straight, and moves the forming belt along a return path section of the belt circuit which includes curved portions therein.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for forming an elasticized portion of an article having a thermally-elasticizable strip along a marginal portion in which heated air is directed towards the strip at at least two different angles relative to the plane of the strip and at a velocity sufficient to cause oscillation of the marginal portion bearing the thermally-elasticizable strip; these conditions are maintained for a dwell time long enough to render the strip elastic when cooled to ambient conditions.

Abstract: An apparatus including a revolving roll for applying to a sheet of a first material continuously moving in a first direction at least one discrete length of a second material with the length of the discrete length at an angle to the first direction. The discrete length is cut from a continuous ribbon on the revolving roll, rotated by the revolving roll to a desired orientation and transferred from the revolving roll to the sheet. The apparatus includes the revolving roll, at least one rotatable platen on, and revolvable with the revolvable roll, a feeding apparatus for feeding the continuous ribbon to circumferential engagement with the revolving roll, a cutting roll and an applicator roll revolving in synchronizm with the revolving roll. The cutting roll has at least one cutting blade which cuts the ribbon at a cutting surface or anvil on the rotatable platen.