Abstract: An approach for providing a request-oriented service architecture is described. A request from a user agent is forwarded to an originating resource manager specifying a feature and an action to be performed on the feature. A modified request is generated based on the request, the modified request including declaration information. Further, a transaction is generated based on the state of the feature and the modified request, and a current state of the feature is updated based on the transaction.

Abstract: An improved method for producing and processing deregistered and disorientated synthetic tow for forming fiber filled articles in which crimped registered tow is deregistered through pairs of rolls utilizing a non-continuous groove-threaded surface. The synthetic tow is dispersed and spread, and collected for continuous distribution into and envelopment by article surface material. The automatic process and apparatus associated therewith additionally form and finish the fiber filled articles themselves for additional fabrication processes or for use as is. Vacuum suction and reciprocating distribution of the open tow web may be varied as desired to arrive at particular article thicknesses directed towards particular article uses.

Abstract: An improved quilt construction and method for making quilted articles, such as sleeping bags, jackets and bedspreads, in which baffles are interposed between the upper and lower quilt surfaces of the article. The baffles themselves are formed from portions of the upper or lower surface itself through various patterns of folding. Pre-notched surface materials further facilitate the formation of the folds and locate the positions for the fold which are restrained in place to form compartments in which quilt filler material is positioned.

Abstract: A method for fabricating fiber-filled articles in which a single emanating column of continuous synthetic crimped tow is produced, cut and utilized to form the article without conventional processing and treatment. The invention includes the method for fabricating these articles as well as an apparatus for forming fiber-filled articles in which columnar bundles of continuous crimped tow are either wrapped in fabric sleeve tubes or are used independently of sleeves. The continuous crimped tow of synthetic fibers is used as a filler directly as it emanates from the tow processing equipment, without the need for layering, spraying, or pre-cutting between an article's outer material layers. The "modular" independent columns of restrained tow are attached in combination to form filber-filled products such as quilts, c;omforters, and sleeping bags imparting to the apparatus and process the advantages of high production fabrication.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for receiving material supplied to it from a source at a constant rate and conveying it at a constant rate and tension to a variable location on a material receiving means. The apparatus includes a main frame, a carriage which is movable on the frame, and means for moving the carriage back and forth relative to the frame. An endless belt having a predetermined speed is supported on the frame and engages a material drive means that is supported for movement with the carriage and preferably includes a drive wheel which engages the belt and a roller which moves linearly with the carriage and supplies the material to a variable location on the material receiving means.

Abstract: A pillow cushion construction of foam material which has improved resilience and shape retention, and which facilitates the manufacture of pillow cushions. An upper and lower portion of the cushion provide a cavity which cooperates with a fibrous filler towards achievement of these results.