Abstract: In a method of manufacturing garments, a mold is provided in the shape and size of the desired garment. The mold includes a matrix of conductors by which variable predetermined electrostatic fields can be established over the mold. A plurality of fiber layers are electrostatically deposited onto the mold to form a garment wherein at least some of the fibers comprising preselected layers are oriented according to the elasticity requirements of particular areas of the garment. Preferably, the garment is then at least partially precured, after which a plurality of colorants can be applied in sequence electrostatically to the garment to produce predetermined patterns, if desired. The garment is then cured to set the fiber layers and colorants, after which the garment is removed from the mold for subsequent finishing.

Abstract: In an automatic system for spreading material, such as fabric, rolled on bolts, a spreading portion includes a driven carriage supported for reciprocal movement over a fixed table and between two spaced catcher assemblies mounted on the table. A tensionless loop is maintained in the material as it is fed from a bolt carried by the carriage and spread over the table. Maximization of the spreading operation without damaging the material is accomplished by making the rate of carriage travel responsive to the rate of material feed. The catcher assemblies prevent the material from following the carriage upon each direction reversal, after which cutting means therein severs each end loop. A storage and loading portion is preferably utilized with the spreading portion. The storage and loading portion includes a conveyor for advancing bolts of material into engagement with an elevator assembly, which reloads the carriage. A microprocessor is utilized to control operation of the entire system.

Abstract: In a method of manufacturing garments, a mold is provided in the shape and size of the desired garment. The mold includes a matrix of conductors by which variable predetermined electrostatic fields can be established over the mold. A plurality of fiber layers are electrostatically deposited onto the mold to form a garment wherein at least some of the fibers comprising preselected layers are oriented according to the elasticity requirements of particular areas of the garment. Preferably, the garment is then at least partially precured, after which a plurality of colorants can be applied in sequence electrostatically to the garment to produce predetermined patterns, if desired. The garment is then cured to set the fiber layers and colorants, after which the garment is removed from the mold for subsequent finishing.