Fabric article treating system

Abstract

A fabric article treating system, and more particularly to a fabric article treating system comprising at least a fabric article active delivery stage and a fabric article transporter capable of passing a fabric article in need of treatment through the fabric article active delivery stage such that a fabric article active is delivered to the fabric article is provided. Methods of treating fabric articles, especially with the fabric article treating system is also provided.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/327,076 filed Oct. 4, 2001.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a fabric article treating system, and more particularly to a fabric article treating system comprising at least a fabric article active delivery stage and a fabric article transporter capable of passing a fabric article in need of treatment through the fabric article active delivery stage such that a fabric article active is delivered to the fabric article. The present invention also relates to methods of treating fabric articles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Conventional tunnel finishers, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,018,371 and 3,732,628 have been used in the past to deliver water and/or steam to fabric articles passing through the tunnel finishers. It has long been known that wrinkles in garments can be removed by subjecting the garments to a high humidity atmosphere, particularly at some elevated temperature. However, such conventional tunnel finishers do not deliver other fabric care benefits, such as by way of delivering one or more fabric article actives to a fabric article passing through the tunnel finisher.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for a fabric article treating system that is capable of transporting a fabric article in need of treatment into a fabric article active delivery stage such that the fabric article is contacted by a fabric article active.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention fulfills the need identified above by providing a fabric article treating system.

[0006] In one aspect of the present invention, a fabric article treating system comprising:

[0007] a. a fabric article transporter; and

[0008] b. a fabric article active delivery stage; and

[0009] c. optionally a solvent delivery stage; and

[0010] d. optionally, a drying stage;

[0011] wherein the fabric article transporter is capable of positioning a fabric article in one or more of the stages of the fabric article treating system, such that when the fabric article is present in the fabric article active delivery stage the fabric article is contacted with a fabric article active, when the fabric article is present in the solvent delivery stage the fabric article is contacted by a solvent, when the fabric article is present in the drying stage the fabric article is dried, is provided.

[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for treating a fabric article in need of treatment comprising passing the fabric article through a fabric article active delivery stage, and optionally a solvent delivery stage, and optionally a drying stage, such that the fabric article is treated.

[0013] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method for treating a fabric article in need of treatment comprising:

[0014] a. providing a fabric article treating system according to the present invention; and

[0015] b. treating the fabric article in the fabric article treating system such that the fabric article is treated, is provided.

[0016] In still another embodiment of the present invention, a method for treating a fabric article in need of treatment comprising passing the fabric article through a fabric article active delivery stage, and optionally a solvent delivery stage, and optionally a drying stage, such that the fabric article is treated, is provided.

[0017] Accordingly, the present invention provides a fabric article treating system and a method for treating garments wherein a fabric article active is delivered to a fabric article during the time the fabric article is present within a fabric article active delivery stage.

[0018] All percentages, ratios and proportions herein are on a weight basis unless otherwise indicated. All documents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of a fabric treating system in accordance with the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of a fabric treating system in accordance with the present invention;

[0021] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of a fabric treating system in accordance with the present invention;

[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of a fabric treating system in accordance with the present invention.

[0023] In FIGS. 1-4, the arrow represents the desired direction that a fabric article being treated by the fabric article treating system passes through the fabric article treating system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Definitions

[0025] “System” as used herein means a complex unity formed of many often, but not always, diverse parts (i.e., materials, compositions, devices, appliances, procedures, methods, conditions, etc.) subject to a common plan or serving a common purpose.

[0026] The term “fabric article” as used herein is intended to mean any article that is customarily cleaned in a conventional laundry process or in a dry cleaning process, as such it includes, but is not limited to, articles that are wholly or partially made of leather and/or furs and/or other fine fabrics and/or “dry-clean only fabrics”. As such the term encompasses articles of clothing, linen, drapery, and clothing accessories. The term also encompasses other items made in whole or in part of fabric, such as tote bags, furniture covers, tarpaulins and the like.

[0027] The term “aqueous vapor” used herein is intended to mean any vapor, droplets, mist, fog, or atomized liquid that is water based. If the aqueous vapor is steam or superheated steam (above atmospheric pressure), it is preferable that it is a “wet” steam or a steam having a “low quality” in the normal meaning of these terms in the steam production art. “Cold steam” is also encompassed by this term. Cold steam may be produced by exposing water or a water-based compositions to ultrasonic waves in order to effect vaporization. For all aqueous vapor types, it is preferable that the size of the droplets is less than 1 millimeter, more preferably, less than 250 microns, and most preferably, less than 100 microns.

[0028] Fabric Article Treating System

[0029] The fabric article treating system of the present invention comprises a fabric article active delivery stage and optionally, a solvent delivery stage, and optionally a drying stage. Fabric articles, especially finished fabric articles, in need of treatment are transported through the one or more stages of the fabric article treating system via a fabric article transporter. The fabric article is treated when the fabric article is present in the one or more stages. Each stage typically comprises an entrance whereby a fabric article enters the stage and an exit whereby the fabric article exits the stage. The entrance and exit are desirably distinct from one another. If the fabric treating system comprises two or more stages then the fabric article would enter through an entrance in one stage and exit through an exit of another stage during the treatment of the fabric article via the fabric article treating system of the present invention. The fabric articles are in continuous movement via the fabric article transporter through the stages, and only reside within a single stage as it passes through the stage for an effective period of time to allow the stage to deliver its fabric care benefits.

[0030] Each stage may be housed in a separate discrete housing, or two or more stages may be housed in a single housing. When housed in a single housing, it is desirable that the two or more stages are physically, mechanically and/or chemically distinct from one another. A nonlimiting example of “physically distinct from one another” is that a physical barrier, such as a partial wall is located between the stages. A nonlimiting example of “mechanically distinct” is that two or more materials that are being delivered to the fabric article in a single stage are delivered from distinct delivery means, such as nozzles, holes, etc., and/or are delivered at different times during the treatment within the single stage. A nonlimiting example of “chemically distinct” is that two or more materials that are being delivered to the fabric article in a single stage do not chemically react with one another during the delivery to the fabric article.

[0031] In one embodiment, at least three stages are present and/or at least three stages are housed within one fabric article treating system housing.

[0032] In another embodiment, two or more of the stages are associated with one another such that the fabric article passes through the two or more stages via the fabric article transporter during operation of the fabric article treating system. The fabric article may pass through the two or more stages via the fabric article transporter in any order.

[0033] The fabric article treating system typically comprises a safety lock system such that if the fabric article transporter stops, then all delivery of solvent and/or fabric article actives and/or drying automatically stops.

[0034] Any suitable materials known to those in the art may be used to manufacture the various components of the present invention. Examples of suitable materials are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,018,371 and 3,732,628, and are seen in the commercially available tunnel finishers from Jensen, Colmac Industries and/or Leonard Automatics.

[0035] a. Fabric Article Active Delivery Stage

[0036] The fabric article active delivery stage typically comprises a fabric article active delivery stage housing within which a fabric article is contacted by a fabric article active.

[0037] The desired purpose of the fabric article active delivery stage is to apply to a fabric article, especially deposit onto the fabric article, a fabric article active (also known as a finishing agent) such that the fabric article active remains on the fabric article, thus providing a fabric article benefit, after the fabric article is treated by the fabric article treating system of the present invention.

[0038] The fabric article active may be applied to the fabric articles at any amount. The quantity of fabric article active applied to the fabric articles depends upon the type of fabric articles and the desired benefit to be delivered by the fabric article active (i.e., sizing, perfuming, softening, deodorizing). Typically, a quantity of the fabric article active of from about 0.1% to about 100%, more typically from about 0.5% to about 50%, most typically from about 1% to about 10% by dry weight of the fabric articles is applied to the fabric articles.

[0039] Depending upon the fabric article active and its purpose, the fabric article active may be applied uniformly to the fabric articles during the fabric article active delivery stage.

[0040] Nonlimiting examples of suitable fabric article actives include materials selected from the group consisting of: fabric softening agents, perfumes, hand-modifying agents, pro-perfumes, anti-static agents, sizing agents, optical brighteners, odor control agents, soil release polymers, insect and/or moth repellent agents, antimicrobial agents, odor neutralizing agents, wrinkle reduction agents, wrinkle resistance agents, waterproofing agents, sizing agents, conditioning agents, dyes, dye fixatives, soil release polymers, soil repellency agents, sunscreen agents, anti-fade agents, finishing polymers; such as synthetic, such as poly acrylates, or natural, such as, starch carboxymethyl cellulose, or hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, and mixtures thereof.

[0041] The fabric article actives can be volatile or non-volatile. Non-volatile fabric article actives are those actives that are not reduced and/or removed by subsequent processes during the fabric article treating system, such as by being exposed to the solvent delivery stage, may be applied prior to the solvent delivery stage. If the fabric article actives are susceptible to reduction and/or removal from the fabric article by the conditions that exist in the solvent delivery stage, then it is desirable to apply those types of fabric article actives subsequent to the solvent delivery stage.

[0042] The fabric article active is typically delivered to the fabric article from a fabric article active supply source. The fabric article active supply source typically comprises a reservoir for holding the fabric article active until needed and a nozzle through which the fabric article active is delivered to the fabric article from the reservoir. It is desirable that the nozzle is an air atomizing spray nozzle and/or an electrostatic spray nozzle, thus electrically charging the fabric article active liquid upon delivery through the nozzle.

[0043] The fabric article active is desirably delivered via a vapor phase and/or a mist.

[0044] It is desirable that the fabric article active delivery stage comprises a recovery system that is capable of collecting and/or recirculating the fabric article active that is not deposited upon the fabric article during the fabric article active delivery stage.

[0045] Nonlimiting examples of perfume agents include aromatic and aliphatic esters, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic ketones, aromatic ketones, aliphatic lactones, aliphatic aldehydes, aromatic aldehydes, condensation products of aldehydes and amines, saturated alcohols, saturated esters, saturated aromatic ketones, saturated lactones, saturated nitrites, saturated ethers, saturated acetals, saturated phenols, saturated hydrocarbons, aromatic nitromusks and mixtures thereof, as more fully described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,939,060 and Canadian Patent No. 1,325,601. Other perfume agents are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,744,435 and 5,721,202, all of said patents are incorporated by reference.

[0046] It is desirable that the perfume ingredients are selected from those perfume ingredients that can effectively provide the best residual perfume odor benefit on fabrics. It is preferable that at least about 25%, preferably at least about 40%, more preferably at least about 60%, and even more preferably at least about 75%, by weight of the perfume is composed of those “lasting” perfume ingredients, selected from the group consisting of “enduring” perfume ingredients that appreciably remain on fabrics after drying, perfume ingredients having low odor detection threshold and mixtures thereof.

[0047] a. Enduring Perfume Ingredients

[0048] The enduring perfume ingredients are characterized by their boiling points (B.P.). The enduring perfume ingredients of this invention have a B.P, measured at the normal, standard pressure of 760 mm Hg, of about 240° C. or higher, and preferably of about 250° C. or higher.

[0049] The boiling points of many perfume ingredients are given in, e.g., “Perfume and Flavor Chemicals (Aroma Chemicals),” Steffen Arctander, published by the author, 1969, incorporated herein by reference. Other boiling point values can be obtained from different chemistry handbooks and data bases, such as the Beilstein Handbook, Lange's Handbook of Chemistry, and the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. When a boiling point is given only at a different pressure, usually lower pressure than the normal pressure of 760 mm Hg, the boiling point at normal pressure can be approximately estimated by using boiling point-pressure nomographs, such as those given in “The Chemist's Companion,” A. J. Gordon and R. A. Ford, John Wiley & Sons Publishers, 1972, pp. 30-36. The boiling point values can also be estimated via a computer program that is described in “Development of a Quantitative Structure—Property Relationship Model for Estimating Normal Boiling Points of Small Multifunctional Organic Molecules”, David T. Stanton, Journal of Chemical Information and Computer Sciences, Vol. 40, No. 1, 2000, pp. 81-90, incorporated herein by reference. Thus, when a perfume composition which is composed of enduring perfume ingredients having a B.P. of about 250° C. or higher, they remain substantive on fabrics after the drying step. Non-limiting examples of the preferred enduring perfume ingredients of the present invention include: allyl cyclohexane propionate, ambrettolide, amyl benzoate, amyl cinnamate, amyl cinnamic aldehyde, amyl cinnamic aldehyde dimethyl acetal, iso-amyl salicylate, aurantiol (trade name for hydroxycitronellal-methyl anthranilate), benzophenone, benzyl salicylate, iso-butyl quinoline, beta-caryophyllene, cadinene, cedrol, cedryl acetate, cedryl formate, cinnamyl cinnamate, cyclohexyl salicylate, cyclamen aldehyde, dihydro isojasmonate, diphenyl methane, diphenyl oxide, dodecalactone, iso E super (trade name for 1-(1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octahydro-2,3,8,8-tetramethyl-2-naphthalenyl)-ethanone), ethylene brassylate, ethyl methyl phenyl glycidate, ethyl undecylenate, iso-eugenol, exaltolide (trade name for 15-hydroxypentadecanoic acid, lactone), galaxolide (trade name for 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta-gamma-2-benzopyran), geranyl anthranilate, hexadecanolide, hexenyl salicylate, hexyl cinnamic aldehyde, hexyl salicylate, lilial (trade name for para-tertiary-butyl-alpha-methyl hydrocinnamic aldehyde), linalyl benzoate, 2-methoxy naphthalene, methyl cinnamate, methyl dihydrojasmonate, beta-methyl naphthyl ketone, musk indanone, musk ketone, musk tibetine, myristicin, delta-nonalactone, oxahexadecanolide- 10, oxahexadecanolide-11, patchouli alcohol, phantolide (trade name for 5-acetyl-1,1,2,3,3,6-hexamethylindan), phenyl ethyl benzoate, phenylethylphenylacetate, phenyl heptanol, phenyl hexanol, alpha-santalol, thibetolide (trade name for 15-hydroxypentadecanoic acid, lactone), tonalid, delta-undecalactone, gamma-undecalactone, vetiveryl acetate, yara-yara, allyl phenoxy acetate, cinnamic alcohol, cinnamic aldehyde, cinnamyl formate, coumarin, dimethyl benzyl carbinyl acetate, ethyl cinnamate, ethyl vanillin (3-methoxy-4-ethoxy benzaldehyde), eugenol, eugenyl acetate, heliotropine, indol, isoeugenol, koavone, methyl-beta-naphthyl ketone, methyl cinnamate, methyl dihdrojasmonate, beta methyl naphthyl ketone, methyl-n-methyl anthranilate, delta-nonalactone, gamma-nonalactone, para methoxy acetophenone (acetanisole), phenoxy ethyl iso butyrate, phenoxy ethyl propionate, piperonal, triethyl citrate, vanillin, and mixtures thereof. Other enduring perfume ingredients useful in the present invention include methyl-N-methyl anthranilate, benzyl butyrate, benzyl iso valerate, citronellyl isobutyrate, citronellyl propionate, delta-nonalactone, dimethyl benzyl carbinyl acetate, dodecanal, geranyl acetate, geranyl isobutyrate, gamma-ionone, para-isopropyl phenylacetaldehyde, cis-jasmone, methyl eugenol, hydroxycitronellal, phenoxy ethanol, benzyl iso valerate, anisic aldehyde, cuminic alcohol, cis-jasmone, methyl eugenol, and mixtures thereof.

[0050] The preferred perfume compositions used in the present invention contain at least 4 different enduring perfume ingredients, preferably at least 5 enduring perfume ingredients, more preferably at least 6 different enduring perfume ingredients, and even more preferably at least 7 different enduring perfume ingredients. Most common perfume ingredients which are derived from natural sources are composed of a multitude of components. When each such material is used in the formulation of the preferred perfume compositions of the present invention, it is counted as one single ingredient, for the purpose of defining the invention.

[0051] In the perfume art, some materials having no odor or very faint odor are used as diluents or extenders. Non-limiting examples of these materials are dipropylene glycol, diethyl phthalate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, and benzyl benzoate. These materials are used for, e.g., diluting and stabilizing some other perfume ingredients. These materials are not counted in the formulation of the lasting perfume compositions of the present invention.

[0052] b. Low Odor Detection Threshold Perfume Ingredients

[0053] The perfume compositions of the present invention can comprise one or more low odor detection threshold perfume ingredients. The odor detection threshold of an odorous material is the lowest vapor concentration of that material which can be olfactorily detected. The odor detection threshold and some odor detection threshold values are discussed in, e.g., “Standardized Human Olfactory Thresholds”, M. Devos et al, IRL Press at Oxford University Press, 1990, and “Compilation of Odor and Taste Threshold Values Data”, F. A. Fazzalari, editor, ASTM Data Series DS 48A, American Society for Testing and Materials, 1978, both of said publications being incorporated by reference. The use of small amounts of perfume ingredients that have low odor detection threshold values can improve perfume odor character, even though they are not as substantive as the enduring perfume ingredients disclosed hereinabove. Perfume ingredients having a significantly low detection threshold, useful in the lasting perfume composition of the present invention, are selected from the group consisting of allyl amyl glycolate, ambrox, anethole, bacdanol, benzyl acetone, benzyl salicylate, butyl anthranilate, calone, cetalox, cinnamic alcohol, coumarin, cyclogalbanate, Cyclal C, cymal, damascenone, alpha-damascone, 4-decenal, dihydro isojasmonate, gamma-dodecalactone, ebanol, ethyl anthranilate, ethyl-2-methyl butyrate, ethyl methylphenyl glycidate, ethyl vanillin, eugenol, flor acetate, florhydral, fructone, frutene, heliotropin, herbavert, cis-3-hexenyl salicylate, indole, alpha-ionone, beta-ionone, iso cyclo citral, isoeugenol, alpha-isomethylionone, keone, lilial, linalool, lyral, methyl anthranilate, methyl dihydrojasmonate, methyl heptine carbonate, methyl isobutenyl tetrahydropyran, methyl beta naphthyl ketone, methyl nonyl ketone, beta naphthol methyl ether, nerol, para-anisic aldehyde, para hydroxy phenyl butanone, phenyl acetaldehyde, gamma-undecalactone, undecylenic aldehyde and mixtures thereof. These materials are preferably present at low levels in addition to the enduring perfume ingredients, typically less than about 20%, preferably less than about 15%, more preferably less than about 10%, by weight of the total perfume compositions of the present invention. However, only low levels are required to provide a perfume odor effect. Some enduring perfume ingredients also have low odor detection threshold. These materials are counted as enduring perfume ingredients in the formulation of the lasting perfume compositions of the present invention

[0054] Pro-fragrances, Pro-perfumes, and Pro-accords

[0055] The fabric care compositions of the present invention may also comprise a fragrance delivery system comprising one or more pro-fragrances, pro-perfumes, pro-accords, and mixtures thereof hereinafter known collectively as “pro-fragrances”. The pro-fragrances of the present invention can exhibit varying release rates depending upon the pro-fragrance chosen. In addition, the pro-fragrances of the present invention can be admixed with the fragrance raw materials which are released therefrom to present the user with an initial fragrance, scent, accord, or bouquet.

[0056] The pro-fragrances of the present invention can be suitably admixed with any carrier provided the carrier does not catalyze or in other way promote the pre-mature release form the pro-fragrance of the fragrance raw materials.

[0057] The following are non-limiting classes of pro-fragrances according to the present invention.

[0058] Esters and polyesters—The esters and polyester pro-fragrances of the present invention are capable of releasing one or more fragrance raw material alcohols. Preferred are esters having the formula: 1

[0059] wherein R is substituted or unsubstituted C1-C30 alkylene, C2-C30 alkenylene, C6-C30 arylen mixtures thereof; —OR1 is derived from a fragrance raw material alcohol having the formula HOR1, or alternatively, in the case wherein the index x is greater than 1, R1 is hydrogen thereby rendering at least one moiety a carboxylic acid, —CO2H unit, rather than an ester unit; the index x is 1 or greater. Non-limiting examples of preferred polyester pro-fragrances include digeranyl succinate, dicitronellyl succinate, digeranyl adipate, dicitronellyl adipate, and the like.

[0060] Beta-Ketoesters—The b-ketoesters of the present invention are capable of releasing one or more fragrance raw materials. Preferred b-ketoesters according to the present invention have the formula: 2

[0061] wherein —OR derives from a fragrance raw material alcohol; R1, R2, and R3 are each independently hydrogen, C1-C30 alkyl, C2-C30 alkenyl, C1-C30 cycloalkyl, C2-C30 alkynyl, C6-C30 aryl, C7-C30 alkylenearyl, C3-C30 alkyleneoxyalkyl, and mixtures thereof, provided at least one R1, R2, or R3 is a unit having the formula: 3

[0062] wherein R4, R5, and R6 are each independently hydrogen, C1-C30 alkyl, C2-C30 alkenyl, C1-C30 cycloalkyl, C1-C30 alkoxy, C6-C30 aryl, C7-C30 alkylenearyl, C3-C30 alkyleneoxyalkyl, and mixtures thereof, or R4, R5, and R6 can be taken together to form a C3-C8 aromatic or non-aromatic, heterocyclic or non-heterocyclic ring.

[0063] Non-limiting examples of b-ketoesters according to the present invention include 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-yl 3-(nonanyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 9-decen-1-yl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-propionate; (a,a-4-trimethyl-3-cyclohexenyl)methyl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-yl 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-(4-nitrophenyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-yl 3-(a-naphthyl)-3-oxo-propionate; cis 3-hexen-1-yl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-(nonanyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-oxo-butyrate; 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-yl 3-oxo-butyrate; 2,6-dimethyl-7-octen-2-yl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-2-methylpropionate; 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-yl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-2,2-dimethylpropionate; 3,7-dimethyl-1,6-octadien-3-yl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-2-methylpropionate; 3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienyl 3-(b-naphthyl)-3-oxo-propionate; 3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienyl 3-heptyl-3-oxo-propionate.

[0064] Acetals and Ketals—Another class of compound useful as pro-accords according to the present invention are acetals and ketals having the formula: 4

[0065]  wherein hydrolysis of the acetal or ketal releases one equivalent of aldehyde or ketone and two equivalents of alcohol according to the following scheme: 5

[0066] wherein R is C1-C20 linear alkyl, C4-C20 branched alkyl, C6-C20 cyclic alkyl, C6-C20 branched cyclic alkyl, C6-C20 linear alkenyl, C6-C20 branched alkenyl, C6-C20 cyclic alkenyl, C6-C20 branched cyclic alkenyl, C6-C20 substituted or unsubstituted aryl, preferably the moieties which substitute the aryl units are alkyl moieties, and mixtures thereof. R1 is hydrogen, R, or in the case wherein the pro-accord is a ketal, R and R1 can be taken together to form a ring. R2 and R3 are independently selected from the group consisting of C5-C20 linear, branched, or substituted alkyl; C4-C20 linear, branched, or substituted alkenyl; C5-C20 substituted or unsubstituted cyclic alkyl; C5-C20 substituted or unsubstituted aryl, C2-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkyleneoxy; C3-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkyleneoxyalkyl; C6-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkylenearyl; C6-C32 substituted or unsubstituted aryloxy; C6-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkyleneoxyaryl; C6-C40 oxyalkylenearyl; and mixtures thereof.

[0067] Non-limiting examples of aldehydes which are releasable by the acetals of the present invention include 4-(4-hydroxy-4-methylpentyl)-3-cyclohexene- 1 -carboxaldehyde (lyral), phenylacetaldehyde, methylnonyl acetaldehyde, 2-phenylpropan- 1-al (hydrotropaldehyde), 3-phenylprop-2-en-1-al (cinnamaldehyde), 3-phenyl-2-pentylprop-2-en-1-al (a-amylcinnamaldehyde), 3-phenyl-2-hexylprop-2-enal (a-hexylcinnamaldehyde), 3-(4-isopropylphenyl)-2-methylpropan-1-al (cyclamen aldehyde), 3-(4-ethylphenyl)-2,2-dimethylpropan-1-al (floralozone), 3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-2-methylpropanal, 3-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-2-methylpropan-1-al (helional), 3-(4-ethylphenyl)-2,2-dimethylpropanal, 3-(3-isopropylphenyl)butan-1-al (florhydral), 2,6-dimethylhep-5-en-1-al (melonal), n-decanal, n-undecanal, n-dodecanal, 3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadien-1-al (citral), 4-methoxybenzaldehyde (anisaldehyde), 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (vanillin), 3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (ethyl vanillin), 3,4-methylenedioxybenzaldehyde (heliotropin), 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde.

[0068] Non-limiting examples of ketones which are releasable by the ketals of the present invention include a-damascone, b-damascone, d-damascone, b-damascenone, muscone, 6,7-dihydro-1,1,2,3,3-pentamethyl-4(5H)-indanone (cashmeran), cis-jasmone, dihydrojasmone, a-ionone, b-ionone, dihydro-b-ionone, g-methyl ionone, a-iso-methyl ionone, 4-(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)butan-2-one, 4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)butan-2-one, methyl b-naphthyl ketone, methyl cedryl ketone, 6-acetyl-1,1,2,4,4,7-hexamethyltetralin (tonalid), 1-carvone, 5-cyclohexadecen-1-one, acetophenone, decatone, 2-[2-(4-methyl-3-cyclohexenyl-1-yl)propyl]cyclopentan-2-one, 2-sec-butylcyclohexanone, b-dihydro ionone, allyl ionone, a-irone, a-cetone, a-irisone, acetanisole, geranyl acetone, 1-(2-methyl-5-isopropyl-2-cyclohexenyl)-1-propanone, acetyl diisoamylene, methyl cyclocitrone, 4-t-pentyl cyclohexanone, p-t-butylcyclohexanone, o-t-butylcyclohexanone, ethyl amyl ketone, ethyl pentyl ketone, menthone, methyl-7,3-dihydro-2H-1,5-benzodioxepine-3-one, fenchone.

[0069] Orthoesters—Another class of compound useful as pro-accords according to the present invention are orthoesters having the formula: 6

[0070]  wherein hydrolysis of the orthoester releases one equivalent of an ester and two equivalents of alcohol according to the following scheme: 7

[0071] wherein R is hydrogen, C1-C20 alkyl, C4-C20 cycloalkyl, C6-C20 alkenyl, C6-C20 aryl, and mixtures thereof, R1, R2 and R3 are each independently selected from the group consisting of C5-C20 linear, branched, or substituted alkyl; C4-C20 linear, branched, or substituted alkenyl; C5-C20 substituted or unsubstituted cyclic alkyl; C5-C20 substituted or unsubstituted aryl, C2-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkyleneoxy; C3-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkyleneoxyalkyl; C6-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkylenearyl; C6-C32 substituted or unsubstituted aryloxy; C6-C40 substituted or unsubstituted alkyleneoxyaryl; C6-C40 oxyalkylenearyl; and mixtures thereof.

[0072] Non-limiting examples of orthoester pro-fragrances include tris-geranyl orthoformate, tris(cis-3-hexen-1-yl)orthoformate, tris(phenylethyl)orthoformate, bis(citronellyl)ethylorthoacetate, tris(citronellyl)orthoformate, tris(cis-6-nonenyl)orthoformate, tris(phenoxyethyl)orthoformate, tris(geranyl, neryl)orthoformate (70:30 geranyl:neryl), tris(9-decenyl)orthoformate, tris(3-methyl-5-phenylpentanyl)orthoformate, tris(6-methylheptan-2-yl)orthoformate, tris([4-(2,2,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-yl]orthoformate, tris[3-methyl-5-(2,2,3-trimethyl-3-cyclopenten-1-yl)-4-penten-2-yl]orthoformate, trismenthyl orthoformate, tris(4-isopropylcyclohexylethyl-2-yl)orthoformate, tris-(6,8-dimethylnonan-2-yl)orthoformate, tris-phenylethyl orthoacetate, tris(cis-3-hexen-1-yl) orthoacetate, tris(cis-6-nonenyl)orthoacetate, tris-citronellyl orthoacetate, bis(geranyl) benzyl orthoacetate, tris(geranyl)orthoacetate, tris(4-isopropylcyclohexylmethyl)orthoacetate, tris(benzyl)orthoacetate, tris(2,6-dimethyl-5-heptenyl) orthoacetate, bis(cis-3-hexen-1-yl)amyl orthoacetate, and neryl citronellyl ethyl orthobutyrate.

[0073] Pro-fragrances are suitably described in the following: U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,468 Suffis et al., issued Jan. 3, 1995; U.S. Pat. No. 5,626,852 Suffis et al., issued May 6, 1997; U.S. Pat. No. 5,710,122 Sivik et al., issued Jan. 20, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,716,918 Sivik et al., issued Feb. 10, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,721,202 Waite et al., issued Feb. 24, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,744,435 Hartman et al., issued Apr. 25, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,756,827 Sivik, issued May 26, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,830,835 Severns et al., issued Nov. 3, 1998; U.S. Pat. No. 5,919,752 Morelli et al., issued Jul. 6, 1999 all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0074] Wrinkle reduction agents and/or wrinkle resistance agents (collectively known as wrinkle control agents) comprise a polymer selected from the group of polymers comprising carboxylic acid moieties that can be suspended, dispersed or solubilized at a specified pH range to produce a lipophilic solution with a viscosity lower than the viscosity of that polymer composition at a pH above the specified pH range and with the viscosity of the solution preferably below about 20 centipoise (“cP”), more preferably below about 15 cP, even more preferably below about 12 cP, even more preferably below about 10 cP, still more preferably below about 7 cP and most preferably below about 3 cP. Mixtures of such polymers can also be used. The wrinkle control agents polymer compositions of the present invention can optionally further comprise silicone compounds and/or emulsions especially those compounds that impart lubricity and softness, as well as those that reduce surface tension. Non-limiting examples include silicones modified with alkylene oxide moieties compounds. Mixtures of silicones that provide desired benefits are also acceptable in the present composition. Another option is an effective amount of a supplemental wrinkle control agent selected from the group consisting essentially of (1) adjunct polymer (2) fabric care polysaccharides, (3) lithium salts, (4) fiber fabric lubricants, and (5) mixtures thereof. Other options include an effective amount of a supplemental surface tension control agent, an effective amount to soften fibers and/or polymer of hydrophilic plasticizer wrinkle control agent, an effective amount of odor control agent to absorb or reduce malodor, and/or an effective amount of perfume to provide olfactory effects.

[0075] Preferred wrinkle control agents can optionally further comprise:

[0076] (A) optionally, but preferably, silicone compounds and emulsions. Silicone compounds that impart lubricity and softness are highly preferred. Silicones that reduce surface tension are also highly preferred. A preferred class of silicone materials includes silicones modified with alkylene oxide moieties compounds; mixtures of silicones that provide desired benefits are also acceptable in the present composition; and

[0077] (B) optionally, an effective amount of a supplemental wrinkle control agent selected from the group consisting of (1) adjunct polymer free of carboxylic acid moieties (2) polysaccharides, (3) lithium salts, (4) fiber fabric lubricants, and (5) mixtures thereof; and

[0078] (C) optionally, an effective amount of a supplemental surface tension control agent; and

[0079] (D) optionally, an effective amount to soften fibers and/or of hydrophilic plasticizer wrinkle control agent.

[0080] The fabric softening agents or actives typically comprise a cationic moiety, more typically a quaternary ammonium salt, preferably selected from the group consisting of: N,N-dimethyl-N,N-di(tallowyloxyethyl)ammonium methylsulfate, N-methyl-N-hydroxyethyl-N,N-di(canoyloxyethyl)ammonium methylsulfate and mixtures thereof.

[0081] The hand-modifying agents typically comprise a polyethylene polymer.

[0082] Another embodiment of a fabric article active is a mixture of DPGDME (DiPropyleneGlycol DiMethylEther) N,N-di(tallowoyl-oxy-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride and a perfume.

[0083] The finishing polymers can be natural, or synthetic, and can act by forming a film, and/or by providing adhesive properties. E.g., the present invention can optionally use film-forming and/or adhesive polymer to impart shape retention to fabric, particularly clothing. By “adhesive” it is meant that when applied as a solution or a dispersion to a fiber surface and dried, the polymer can attach to the surface. The polymer can form a film on the surface, or when residing between two fibers and in contact with the two fibers, it can bond the two fibers together.

[0084] Nonlimiting examples of the finishing polymer that are commercially available are: polyvinylpyrrolidone/dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer, such as Copolymer 958®, molecular weight of about 100,000 and Copolymer 937, molecular weight of about 1,000,000, available from GAF Chemicals Corporation; adipic acid/dimethylaminohydroxypropyl diethylenetriamine copolymer, such as Cartaretin F-4® and F-23, available from Sandoz Chemicals Corporation; methacryloyl ethyl betaine/methacrylates copolymer, such as Diaformer Z-SM®, available from Mitsubishi Chemicals Corporation; polyvinyl alcohol copolymer resin, such as Vinex 2019®, available from Air Products and Chemicals or Moweol®, available from Clariant; adipic acid/epoxypropyl diethylenetriamine copolymer, such as Delsette 101®, available from Hercules Incorporated; polyamine resins, such as Cypro 515®, available from Cytec Industries; polyquaternary amine resins, such as Kymene 557H®, available from Hercules Incorporated; and polyvinylpyrrolidone/acrylic acid, such as Sokalan EG 310®, available from BASF.

[0085] Specific examples of quaternary ammonium compounds suitable for use as fabric softening agents include but are not limited to:

[0086] 1) N,N-di(tallowyl-oxy-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride;

[0087] 2) N,N-di(tallowyl-oxy-ethyl)-N-methyl, N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ammonium chloride;

[0088] 3) N,N-di(2-tallowyloxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride;

[0089] 4) N,N-di(2-tallowyloxyethylcarbonyloxyethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride;

[0090] 5)N-(2-tallowoyloxy-2-ethyl)-N-(2-tallowyloxy-2-oxo-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride;

[0091] 6) N,N,N-tri(tallowyl-oxy-ethyl)-N-methyl ammonium chloride;

[0092] 7) N-(2-tallowyloxy-2-oxoethyl)-N-(tallowyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride;

[0093] 8) 1,2-ditallowyloxy-3-N,N,N-trimethylammoniopropane chloride; and

[0094] and mixtures of any of the above materials.

[0095] Particularly preferred is N,N-di(tallowoyl-oxy-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride, where the tallow chains are at least partially unsaturated.

[0096] Any suitable well known antistatic agents used in laundering and dry cleaning art are suitable for use as a fabric article active. Especially suitable as antistatic agents are the subset of fabric softeners which are known to provide antistatic benefits. For example those fabric softeners which have a fatty acyl group which has an iodine value of above 20, such as N,N-di(tallowoyl-oxy-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium methylsulfate. However, it is to be understood that the term antistatic agent is not to be limited to just this subset of fabric softeners and includes all antistatic agents.

[0097] In addition to the fabric article actives described above, carriers and/or methods for assisting deposition of the fabric article actives onto the fabric articles may also be used during the fabric article active delivery stage. A nonlimiting example of such a suitable carrier and/or method of assisting deposition is the use of electrically charged liquids, especially water, typically in the form of an electrostatic spray. In the case of the electrically charged liquids, it is desirable that the fabric articles are humid and/or moist prior to delivering the electrically charged liquids. Accordingly, it is desirable that the delivery of the electrically charged liquids occurs subsequent to the solvent delivery stage. Further, in the case of the delivery of the electrically charged liquids, it is desirable that the housing, if any, associated with the fabric article active delivery stage has a capacity such that the fabric article is sufficiently distanced from the electrically charged liquid supply source to permit the electrically charged liquid to provide its benefit upon contacting the fabric article.

[0098] The electrically charged liquid spray is generated by delivering the liquid to the spray nozzle under a combination of electrical and hydrodynamic forces. The liquid is charged at or prior to the nozzle orifice or orifices by passing through an electrical field generated by a charged electrode. The electric field strength is mainly dependent upon the voltage applied to the electrode and the distance from the target. The liquid can be delivered to the nozzle by any means, but is preferably delivered hydrodynamically, for example with external mechanical work input so as to provide an operating or total pressure greater than the static pressure of the fluid in the system. Preferably the liquid is delivered by hydraulic pressure using a pump, especially preferred being a peristaltic pump. Typically a suitable pump would have an operating pressure in the range from about 5 to about 2000 kPa, preferably from about 10 to about 1050 kPa, and more preferably from about 50 to about 150 kPa. The threshold values of the pressure control valve are adjusted accordingly. The discharge capacity of the equipment (defined as flow rate/orifice) on the other hand, is preferably at least about 0.1 mL/min/orifice, more preferably from about 0.2 to about 20 mL/min/orifice, yet more preferably from about 0.5 to about 10 mL/min/orifice and especially from about 1 to about 5 mL/min/orifice.

[0099] The means for electrically charging the liquid preferably comprises a generator having high and low voltage outputs and in preferred embodiments is electrically isolated from the operator/user.

[0100] It has been surprisingly found that optimum liquid delivery is obtained by applying the electrically charged liquid in a downwardly directed spray of droplets (i.e., where the fabric article is below the spray source) having an average droplet size of at least about 40 &mgr;m and preferably in the range from about 75 to about 500 &mgr;m and at a proximal distance of from about 0.1 to about 1 m, the liquid being discharged through the spray nozzle at an exit velocity in the range from about 0 to about 2 m/s and at an applied potential in the range from about 0.2 to about 50 kV, whereby the overspray as herein defined is less than about 40%.

[0101] In other downward-spray mode embodiments of the invention the exit velocity may be from about 0.1 m/s to about 1.5 m/s, preferably from about 0.5 m/s to about 1 m/s and the spray of droplets is downwardly directed at a spray angle of from about −30° to about 30°, preferably from about −15° to about 15° to the vertical.

[0102] Of course, the electrically charged liquid spray can be delivered in an upwardly directed spray and/or in a standard horizontal mode as well with the spray directed at +/−15° to the horizontal and an exit velocity of from about 4 m/s to about 15 m/s and more preferably from about 5 m/s to about 12 m/s. However, this mode can result in slightly more overspray because of inertial effects, with overspray of less then 50%, preferably less than 30%, and more preferably less than 20%.

[0103] In addition to the fabric article actives and deposition aids, such as electrically charged liquids, a deposition monitoring agent can also be deposited onto the fabric article to assist in monitoring the level of deposition of fabric article active onto the fabric article. A nonlimiting example of a deposition monitoring agent comprises a temperature sensitive UV agent.

[0104] b. Solvent Delivery Stage

[0105] The solvent delivery stage typically comprises a solvent delivery stage housing within which a fabric article is contacted by a solvent, preferably in the form of a vapor phase and/or mist and/or electrically charged liquids, more preferably in the form of an aqueous vapor, such as steam.

[0106] The application of the aqueous vapor can be achieved by any suitable process in a single stage or in multiple stages, such as by “pulsing” the aqueous vapor onto the fabric articles. “Pulsing” in this regard means a non-continuous application such that for a given volume of aqueous vapor, the entire application requires more than one application cycle. Each pulse can have a duration of from at least about 5 seconds to at most about 30 seconds. The aqueous vapor cycle pause time between each pulse can last for a time interval of from at least about 2 seconds, preferably at least about 5 seconds, to at most about 20 seconds, preferably at most about 10 seconds. While the aqueous vapor is pulsed, the fabrics can be tumbled or spun such that the fabrics are re-positioned to provide adequate and more uniform coverage of the aqueous vapor.

[0107] In order to reduce the risk of harm to a wide array of fabric types, the amount of aqueous vapor applied could be limited to about 0.5% to about 50% by weight of the fabrics in each aqueous vapor exposure step. In order to reduce the risk of harm to an even wider array of fabric types, the amount of aqueous vapor applied can be limited further to about 5% to about 15% by weight of the fabrics in each aqueous vapor exposure step.

[0108] The aqueous vapor is typically applied at temperatures from about 10° C. to about 120° C., more preferably from about 10° C. to about 60° C. At standard room conditions, steam will form at 100° C. and is included within the definition of aqueous vapor. Since some apparati capable of performing the methods of the present invention can attain pressures above atmospheric conditions, superheated steam is also included in the present definition of aqueous vapor. If the aqueous vapor does contain steam, it is preferred that the steam be what is known in the chemical arts as “low quality” or “wet” steam.

[0109] It is believed that droplet size plays a role in the “evenness” of the distribution of fluid phases on the fabrics. As such, it is preferred that the aqueous vapor comprises droplets of less than about 1 millimeter in size, more preferably less than about 250 microns in size, and most preferably less than about 100 microns in size.

[0110] The solvent is typically delivered to the fabric article from a solvent supply source. Typically the solvent supply source comprises a nozzle through which the solvent is delivered to the fabric article.

[0111] It is desirable that the solvent delivery stage comprises a recovery system capable of collecting and/or recirculating the solvent that is not deposited upon the fabric article during the solvent delivery stage. The recovery system may comprise a condenser to condense the solvent that is not deposited upon the fabric article.

[0112] c. Drying Stage

[0113] The drying stage typically comprises a drying stage housing within which the fabric article is dried.

[0114] The purpose of the drying stage is to remove and/or evaporate excess liquids from the fabric articles such that the fabric articles are suitable for handling and/or wearing by the fabric article owners, in other words “dry to the touch”.

[0115] During the drying stage, the fabric article is typically heated to a temperature of from about 20° C. to about 130° C., more preferably from about 30° C. to about 100° C. in the drying sta A heated gas, such as air or any other suitable gas known to those in the art can be used to contact the fabric article during the drying stage to cause evaporative removal of liquids from the fabric article. Typically, heated gas is delivered to the fabric article from a heated gas supply source. The heated gas supply source typically comprises a heated gas outlet through which the heated gas is delivered to the fabric article.

[0116] Within the drying stage housing, it is desirable that the heated gas contacts the fabric article

[0117] d. Fabric Article Transporter

[0118] The fabric article transporter comprises any suitable mechanical means of transporting a fabric article through the one or more stages of the fabric article treating system.

[0119] The fabric article transporter may be physically associated with one or more of the stages or may be separate and discrete from the one or more stages so long as the fabric articles to be treated are capable of passing through the one or more stages. Typically, the fabric article transporter is arranged such that the fabric articles to be treated are suspended from the fabric article transporter during the treating process.

[0120] The fabric article transporter may comprise a conveyor system and/or a chain system and/or a screw system along which the fabric articles are transported. To facilitate the transporting of fabric articles, typically the conveyor system and/or chain system and/or screw system comprises a fabric article holder, such as a hanger, that releasably holds the fabric article in position while the hanger moves along the conveyor system and/or chain system and/or screw system.

[0121] In addition to the fabric article holder, a stretch element and/or tensioning element may be used with the fabric article to ensure that the maximum fabric article surface area is available for treatment. Such stretch elements include, but are not limited to, extended hangers that contact substantially the entire fabric article and/or weights that can be attached to fabric articles, typically at the fabric articles' edges.

[0122] It is desirable that the fabric article transporter is adjustable such that the distances between adjacent fabric articles can be altered to increase and/or decrease those distances. Certain fabric article actives delivered during the fabric article active delivery stage are delivered more effectively if there is a greater distance between adjacent fabric articles at the time of delivery of such fabric article active. For example, in the case of the delivery of an electrically charged liquid that may or may not comprise a fabric article active, it is desirable that the fabric articles are spaced apart a greater distance than for the delivery of other types of fabric article actives, such as perfumes.

EXAMPLES

[0123] FIGS. 1-4 are schematic examples that illustrate nonlimiting embodiments of the present invention.

[0124] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment wherein a fabric article via the fabric article transporter (the arrow) passes through the solvent delivery stage prior to passing through the fabric article active delivery stage. The fabric article then passes through the drying stage.

[0125] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an embodiment wherein a fabric article via the fabric article transporter (the arrow) passes through the solvent delivery stage followed by passing through the drying stage and subsequently passing through the fabric article active delivery stage.

[0126] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an embodiment wherein a fabric article via the fabric article transporter (the arrow) passes through the fabric article active delivery stage and then through the drying stage.

[0127] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of an embodiment wherein a fabric article via the fabric article transporter (the arrow) passes through the fabric article active delivery stage prior to passing through the solvent delivery stage. The fabric article then passes through the drying stage.

[0128] It is within the scope of the present invention to arrange the various stages of the fabric article treating system in any order and in any number.

[0129] While particular embodiments of the subject invention have been described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications of the subject invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is intended to cover, in the appended claims, all such modifications that are within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A fabric article treating system comprising:

a. a fabric article transporter; and

b. a fabric article active delivery stage; and

c. optionally a solvent delivery stage; and

d. optionally, a drying stage;

wherein the fabric article transporter is capable of positioning a fabric article in one or more of the stages of the fabric article treating system, such that when the fabric article is present in the fabric article active delivery stage the fabric article is contacted with a fabric article active, when the fabric article is present in the solvent delivery stage the fabric article is contacted by a solvent, when the fabric article is present in the drying stage the fabric article is dried.

2. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein at least three stages are present and/or at least three stages are housed within one fabric article treating system housing.

3. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein two or more of the stages are associated with one another such that the fabric article passes through the two or more stages via the fabric article transporter during operation of the fabric article treating system.

4. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active delivery stage comprises a fabric article active delivery stage housing within which the fabric article is contacted by the fabric article active.

5. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active is selected from the group consisting of: fabric softening agents, perfumes, hand-modifying agents, pro-perfumes, anti-static agents, sizing agents, optical brighteners, odor control agents, soil release polymers, insect and/or moth repellent agents, antimicrobial agents, odor neutralizing agents, wrinkle reduction agents, wrinkle resistance agents, waterproofing agents, sizing agents, conditioning agents, dyes, dye fixatives, soil release polymers, soil repellency agents, sunscreen agents, anti-fade agents, finishing polymers and mixtures thereof.

6. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active is delivered to the fabric article from a fabric article active supply source.

7. The fabric article treating system according to claim 6 wherein the fabric article active supply source comprises a nozzle through which the fabric article active is delivered to the fabric article.

8. The fabric article treating system according to claim 7 wherein the nozzle comprises an air atomizing nozzle.

9. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active is delivered via a vapor phase and/or a mist.

10. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active delivery stage further comprises contacting the fabric article with an electrically charged liquid.

11. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active delivery stage comprises a recovery system that is capable of collecting and/or recirculating the fabric article active that is not deposited upon the fabric article during the fabric article active delivery stage.

12. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the solvent delivery stage comprises a solvent delivery stage housing within which the fabric article is contacted by the solvent.

13. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the solvent comprises water.

14. The fabric article treating system according to claim 13 wherein the water is delivered to the fabric article in the form of steam.

15. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the solvent is delivered to the fabric article from a solvent supply source.

16. The fabric article treating system according to claim 15 wherein the solvent supply source comprises a nozzle through which the solvent is delivered to the fabric article.

17. The fabric article treating system according to claim 16 wherein the nozzle comprises an air atomizing nozzle.

18. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the solvent is delivered via a vapor phase and/or a mist.

19. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the solvent delivery stage comprises a recovery system capable of collecting and/or recirculating the solvent that is not deposited upon the fabric article during the solvent delivery stage.

20. The fabric article treating system according to claim 19 wherein the recovery system comprises a condenser to condense the solvent that is not deposited upon the fabric article.

21. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the drying stage comprises a drying stage housing within which the fabric article is dried.

22. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article is heated to a temperature of from about 20° C. to about 130° C. in the drying stage.

23. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein heated gas is delivered to the fabric article in the drying stage.

24. The fabric article treating system according to claim 23 wherein the heated gas is delivered to the fabric article from a heated gas supply source.

25. The fabric article treating system according to claim 24 wherein the heated gas supply source comprises a heated gas outlet through which the heated gas is delivered to the fabric article.

26. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article transporter comprises a screw pitch.

27. The fabric article treating system according to claim 28 wherein the screw pitch is configured such that spacing between adjacent fabric articles can be altered along the screw pitch.

28. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article treating system further comprises a solvent delivery stage wherein the fabric article is contacted with a solvent when the fabric article is present in the solvent delivery stage and a drying stage wherein the fabric article is dried when the fabric article is present in the drying stage.

29. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active delivery stage comprises a fabric article active delivery stage housing within which the fabric article is contacted by the fabric article delivery active, the solvent delivery stage comprises a solvent delivery stage housing within which the fabric article is contacted by the solvent, and the drying stage comprises a drying stage housing within which the fabric article is dried.

30. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein when two or more stages are present, the fabric article may pass through the two or more stages via the fabric article transporter in any order.

31. The fabric article treating system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric article active is a non-volatile fabric article active that is delivered during the fabric article active delivery stage prior to the fabric article passing through the solvent delivery stage by the fabric article transporter.

32. A method for treating a fabric article in need of treatment comprising:

a. providing a fabric article treating system according to claim 1; and

b. treating the fabric article in the fabric article treating system such that the fabric article is treated.

33. A method for treating a fabric article in need of treatment comprising passing the fabric article through a fabric article active delivery stage, and optionally a solvent delivery stage, and optionally a drying stage, such that the fabric article is treated.