Abstract: A method includes wetting fibers with a resin capable of being cured by at least two different cure treatments. At least partially curing the resin by subjecting the resin to a first cure treatment and at least partially curing the resin by subjecting the resin to a second cure treatment. A plurality of fibers are located adjacent each other so that a plurality of valleys are formed between the plurality of fibers along an outer side of the reinforcement. The resin is cured to retain the valleys in the outer side of the reinforcement. The outer side of the reinforcement is adhered to the structural member. An apparatus including a fiber locating mechanism adapted to retain the peaks and valleys during curing of the resin without rigidly confining the outer side of the reinforcement.

Abstract: A body waste disposable article adapted to receive feces and/or urine discharged thereon, the article having a body fluids absorbent means above which an opening is formed by a surrounding wall partially covering the body fluids absorbent means and surrounding the opening. The article is longitudinally composed of a front end, a rear end and an intermediate region extending between these two ends. The article is configured so as to have the largest width in its intermediate region.

Abstract: There is provided an elastic thermal insulating wrap having a insulating skin facing layer and an airflow impeding layer, with elastic strands interposed therebetween. The elastic strands are arranged in a substantially parallel manner and the strands and layers are bonded to produce the wrap laminate.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for assembly of extensible composite webs and web sausages, and personal care articles manufactured from such webs. The invention comprises fabricating a resiliently extensible web by bringing together and securing to each other as discrete elements, intervening web substrate elements between resiliently stretchable elastic elements. Securement between elastic elements and web substrate elements is defined by alternating zones of securement and non-securement along a length of the web substrate. The invention comprises deactivating elastic elements in the non-securement zones thereby to retract elastic strands in the non-securement zones without retracting the corresponding web or webs in such non-securement zones, and correspondingly, to distinguish the securement zones as relatively more resiliently stretchable and the non-securement zones as relatively less resiliently stretchable.

Abstract: A synthetic wood material and method are disclosed, including providing a plurality of continuous glass fibers oriented substantially in the longitudinal axis and coated with a resorcinol modified phenolic resin binder substantially free from catalyst. In one aspect, the synthetic wood material is oxidatively treated to restore color. In one aspect, the fibers and binder are precoated with a furfuryl alcohol resin prior to the pultrusion step to form the synthetic wood.

Abstract: Elastomeric composites and elastomeric composite laminates including reinforcement strands incorporated into an elastomeric adhesive film. The strands may vary in terms of levels of tension. Facing layers, such as nonwoven webs, can be laminated to both surfaces of the elastomeric composite to form laminates. A method of making such composites and laminates involves adjusting tension among various elastic strands while extruding the elastic strands and incorporating the elastic strands into the elastomeric adhesive film.

Abstract: A core crush resistant prepreg for use in making a fiber reinforced composite panel structure is provided. The prepreg comprises a woven fabric consisting essentially of carbon fiber tow strands impregnated with a hardenable polymeric resin composition. Typically the fabric has an areal weight of from about 180 to about 205 grams per square meter. The prepreg has an average fiber tow aspect ratio of less than about 15.4, a prepreg thickness of at least about 0.245 mm, and a prepreg openness of at least about 1.2 percent but less than about 6.0 percent. Preferably, the resin composition is predominantly viscous in nature and has a tan &dgr; value of between 0.9 and 2.0 at an elevated temperature between 70° C. and 140° C., and an average epoxy functionality of greater than 2.0. A method for evaluating core crush resistance properties of a prepreg is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the manufacture of fiber-reinforced pressure vessels and the product produced therefrom. A ductile metal vessel liner, being formed with at least one nozzle, is wrapped with a first composite layer of resin-impregnated fibers. Pressure is applied to the vessel sufficient to yield the liner but is insufficient to cause deformation of the nozzle. The liner retains a residual compressive stress critical for withstanding cyclical service pressures. A second composite layer is applied over the first layer to increase the strength of the vessel sufficient to maintain the vessel's integrity at very high cyclical service pressures (such as about 0-10,000 psig). The vessel is then pressure tested at 1.5 times the intended service pressure to ensure vessel integrity.

Abstract: The present invention provides a distinctive method and apparatus (20) for forming an article which includes one or more selectively configured strands of material. In particular aspects, the invention can provide a method and apparatus for wrapping a strand of material with a selected filament, and desirably, the filament can be an adhesive filament. The technique of the invention can include a moving of a strand of material (22) at a selected speed along an appointed machine-direction (34). A substantially continuous filament (24) can be directed onto the strand of material (22) along an oscillating filament path (26) to form a plurality of filament threads (28) extending from opposed lateral side regions (30) of the strand of material (22). An air stream (32) is directed to operatively wrap the filament threads (28) around the strand of material (22).

Abstract: Curled decorative mosses and methods for producing same are disclosed wherein the curled decorative mosses have improved bulk and simulate Spanish moss in both appearance and texture.

Abstract: A method of applying leg elastics to absorbent garments involves optimizing the spacing between multiple elastic members. The elastic members are bonded to a substrate with variable spacing along the length of the leg opening. More particularly, narrower spacing is provided in the crotch area, thereby providing higher gasketing pressure, while wider spacing is provided in areas outside the crotch area for lower gasketing pressure and greater comfort. Alternatively, narrower spacing can be applied to the back portion of the leg, with medium spacing in the crotch area and wider spacing in the front portion or the leg, or conversely, wider spacing in the back portion with medium spacing in the crotch area and narrower spacing in the front portion, depending on the wearer's needs. The resulting garments have optimized comfort, fit and containment about the leg openings.

Abstract: A method of applying leg elastics to absorbent garments involves varying the number and position of feed nips and idler rolls and optimizing the tension between multiple elastic members. The elastic members are bonded to a substrate with variable tension. More particularly, higher tension is provided in the areas of the garment where greater gasketing pressure is required, while lower tension is provided in areas where greater comfort is desired and high gasketing pressure is not needed. Furthermore, each elastic member may vary in degrees of tension from the other elastic members. The resulting garments have optimized comfort, fit and containment about the leg openings.

Abstract: A method for applying a fluid filament to a strand useful for bonding elastic strands to an absorbent garment is described. The strand is oscillated as it moves along an isolated path past a fixed fluid filament dispenser. The strand captures substantially all of the fluid filament, and at least partially all sides of the strand are coated with the filament. The filament coated strand may then be bonded to one or more substrates in some embodiments.

Abstract: A method of applying leg elastics to absorbent garments involves optimizing the spacing between multiple elastic members. The elastic members are bonded to a substrate with variable spacing along the length of the leg opening. More particularly, narrower spacing is provided in the crotch area, thereby providing higher gasketing pressure, while wider spacing is provided in areas outside the crotch area for lower gasketing pressure and greater comfort. Alternatively, narrower spacing can be applied to the back portion of the leg, with medium spacing in the crotch area and wider spacing in the front portion or the leg, or conversely, wider spacing in the back portion with medium spacing in the crotch area and narrower spacing in the front portion, depending on the wearer's needs. The resulting garments have optimized comfort, fit and containment about the leg openings.

Abstract: In an apparatus and method for applying an elongate member to a substrate, an elongate member is fed to a guide capable of guiding the elongate member onto a substrate moving in a flow direction thereof. The guide is supported by a guide assembly for conjoint lateral movement therewith relative to the flow direction of the substrate. The guide assembly is moved lateral to the flow direction of the substrate to guide the elongate member onto the substrate along a securement path, at least a portion of which is generally oblique to the flow direction of the substrate. The guide is moved relative to the guide assembly, generally laterally relative to the flow direction of the substrate, to vary the transverse position of the elongate member within the securement path as it is guided onto the substrate. The elongate member is then secured to the substrate.

Abstract: A method of applying leg elastics to absorbent garments involves varying the number and position of feed nips and idler rolls and optimizing the tension between multiple elastic members. The elastic members are bonded to a substrate with variable tension. More particularly, higher tension is provided in the areas of the garment where greater gasketing pressure is required, while lower tension is provided in areas where greater comfort is desired and high gasketing pressure is not needed. Furthermore, each elastic member may vary in degrees of tension from the other elastic members. The resulting garments have optimized comfort, fit and containment about the leg openings.

Abstract: A softer absorbent garment is prepared by incorporating elastic strands that are coated around their periphery. The elastic strands are coated with adhesive by immersing them in an adhesive-filled applicator comb prior to applying the elastic strands to the garment. The absorbent garment thus requires less adhesive, and the manufacturing method provides a cleaner work environment.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a reinforced fiber cement article comprising a fiber cement piece and a reinforcing fixture bonded to a portion of the fiber cement piece for improving the performance, strength and durability of the fiber cement piece. The reinforcing fiber cement article could be used as or in conjunction with a siding plank assembly, which further comprises an interlocking feature that allows the siding plank to be stacked with other siding planks in a manner such that a uniform and deep shadow line is created. The interlocking feature sets the gauge of the exposed plank face and allows for leveling of the plank during installation. The reinforcing fixture could also serve as a thick butt piece or a plastic spline that produces a deep shadow line. A cementitious adhesive is used to bond the reinforcing fixture to the fiber cement piece.

Abstract: A method of applying curved leg elastics to absorbent garments involves stretching and wrapping a pair of elastic ribbons about a first curved surface of a pair of pucks. A portion of each of the elastic ribbons is simultaneously folded onto a second surface of each of the pucks. The pucks are attached to a rotating device that rotates the pucks into alignment with a substrate. As the pucks are rotated toward the substrate, the pucks are also oscillated individually toward the substrate. Once the second surfaces of the pucks are aligned parallel to the substrate, the substrate is bonded to the second surface portion of each of the elastic ribbons in their stretched positions on the pucks, thereby forming finished seams. The resulting absorbent garments have gasket-like leg openings with improved comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Abstract: The apparatus for manufacturing wearing articles includes: a pair of nip rolls for nipping a first web and a first elastic member; a first moving section movable in a direction crossing the first web; and a first guide head provided on the first moving section for feeding the first elastic member at a position upstream of a position at which the first web is nipped, wherein the radius of at least one of the pair of nip rolls is about 15 mm to about 35 mm, and a distance D between a plane including axes of the pair of nip rolls and a point at which the first guide head releases the first elastic member is about 30 mm or less.

Abstract: A composite friction unit of a three dimensional composite body is formed of a substantially uniform array of predominately glass strands of primary reinforcing fibers in matrix of phenolic resin material, the reinforcing fibers in the form of fabric distributed throughout the body forming a friction unit having a predetermined size and configuration and uniform distribution and alignment of fibers throughout. An alternate friction unit includes a substantially rigid backing co-pultruded in forming the unit. The units are produced in a pultrusion process wherein the reinforcing fibers and matrix are pulled through a forming die.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of making a laminated, gathered, elastic web. The method includes the steps of feeding a first substrate in a machine direction, feeding a second substrate aligned with the first substrate in the machine direction, and feeding an array of elastomeric strand material between the first and second substrates in such a manner that the elastomeric strand material is stretched in the machine direction and aligned with the first and second substrates. A hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive, such as a styrene-isoprene-styrene based adhesive, is applied to one substrate, and a curable adhesive, such as a polyurethane based adhesive, is applied to the other substrate. Thereafter, the two substrates and the elastomeric strand material are compressed to form a laminate elastic web while maintaining the elastomeric strand material in its stretched state. Machine direction tension is maintained on the laminate until the hot melt adhesive cools and bonds the layers together.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of making a steel cable reinforced conveyor belt while monitoring the tensions of all the cables.

Abstract: Articles of apparel and the method of making the same which include a shaped body portion that will allow water vapor due to perspiration to transpire through the article but will prevent water from external sources from reaching the wearer's extremities. The articles of apparel include a body portion that is of three-ply construction with the inside and outside plies being stretch and return and constructed from a meeting yam having a stretchable components and the intermediate ply being made from an elastomeric polyurethane film. The three plies are uniquely bonded together using a specially formulated, waterproof powdered adhesive having a particle size of between about 200 and about 300 microns. The adhesive is melted at a closely controlled temperature to securely bond together the stretch and return fabric components and the elastomeric polyurethane film components to form a finished article.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of making a laminated, gathered, elastic web. The method includes the steps of feeding a first substrate in a machine direction, feeding a second substrate aligned with the first substrate in the machine direction, and feeding an array of elastomeric strand material between the first and second substrates in such a manner that the elastomeric strand material is stretched in the machine direction and aligned with the first and second substrates. A hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive, such as a styrene-isoprene-styrene based adhesive, is applied to one substrate, and a curable adhesive, such as a polyurethane based adhesive, is applied to the other substrate. Thereafter, the two substrates and the elastomeric strand material are compressed to form a laminate elastic web while maintaining the elastomeric strand material in its stretched state. Machine direction tension is maintained on the laminate until the hot melt adhesive cools and bonds the layers together.

Abstract: A process for making a pants-type diaper without generation of waste material. The pants-type diaper is composed of a body fluid absorbent pad member curved in a U-shape, a front waist member and a rear waist member extending around front and rear waist-halves, respectively. The front and rear waist members are obtained by feeding first and second elastic members in parallel to each other in a machine direction so as to describe substantially sinusoidal curves, respectively, securing these elastic members to one surface of a web fed in the machine direction and then transversely bisecting the web between the first and second elastic members. The first and second elastic members are symmetric to each other about a center line bisecting the web but phase-shifted with respect to each other in the machine direction by half a cycle of the substantially sinusoidal curve.

Abstract: Flat strip lamella (10) for reinforcing load-bearing or load transferring building components e.g. concrete, wood, steel, natural stone or masonry. The flat strip lamella (10) has a composite structure consisting of a plurality of parallel aligned, bendable or flexible carrying fibers (26) and a binding matrix (28) joining the carrying fibers to each other and making them shear resistant. The lamella can be attached facewise to the surface of the building component to be reinforced, using adhesive (16). In order to be able to bend the flat strip lamella over corner edges of a building component, the binding matrix (28) consists of a thermoplastic synthetic material.

Abstract: Hot-melt adhesive compositions of atactic polypropylene and isotactic polypropylene are particularly suitable for bonding non-woven elastic composites. A selected amount of isotactic polypropylene is blended with a selected amount of atactic polypropylene to prepare an adhesive composition having one or more performance properties (e.g., bond strength) that are superior to the performance properties of conventional hot-melt adhesives.

Abstract: In a method and device for applying a thread to a moving substrate, a thread is continuously dispensed to a pick-up point adjacent to the point of contact of two rotating wheels (2, 3) that are inclined towards each other. The peripheries of the wheels have fingers (7) which hook the thread and move it to one side or the other as the wheels rotate, and then deposit the thread extended between the fingers 180° from the pick-up point. Long spaces between the fingers (7) on one wheel or the other make it possible to lay the thread longitudinally (8b) or in a long diagonal line instead of merely in a lateral zigzag pattern. The method and device may be used to make an absorbent article, such as a diaper.

Abstract: Laminated elastic webs are manufactured in a pre-stretched condition using a laminating machine. A conveyor system located downstream of the laminating machine conveys the laminated elastic webs to packaging machines (e.g. reject splicers and festooners). The conveyor system operates at speeds proportionally less than the line speed of the laminating machine so that the laminated elastic web relaxes from its stretched condition, and becomes fully or almost fully relaxed and gathered before packaging. Sufficient relaxation is important before packaging so that the laminated elastic web does not set in stretched form while packaged, or alternatively relax further while packaged to create dead space within the packaging container. The conveyor system preferably includes an inclined conveyor belt followed by a multi-lane air conveyor. Each lane of the air conveyor gently transports one of several laminated elastic webs from the belt conveyor to the respective packaging machine.

Abstract: A method for applying elastic, preferably thread elastic, to a travelling web (1) of material in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the feed direction (20) of the web (1). An applicator (9) is moveable generally perpendicular to the web (1) and includes a thread guide (6) which is moveable between two outer positions, the thread guide (6) being adapted to apply elastic (5a-b) to the web (1). The thread guide (6) delivers the elastic (5a-b) to a stopper (16) as it passes the stopper (16) while moving to its outer position and the thread guide (6) again picks up the elastic (5a-b) as it passes the stopper on the way to the other position.

Abstract: A method for flattening non-flat areas of screening material of a screen assembly, the non-flat areas of screening material between lines of glue gluing together a plurality of layers of screening material, the plurality of glued-together layers of screening material secured to a frame, the method including mounting the screen assembly on a vibratory separator, the vibratory separator located in an environment at an ambient temperature, vibrating the screen assembly with the vibratory separator for a period of time, feeding material to be treated onto the screen assembly, the material to be treated at a material temperature above the ambient temperature, the period of time of such a temporal length and the material temperature of such a temperature to effect flattening of the non-flat areas of screening material.

Abstract: The process in accordance with the invention for producing a three-dimensional surface structure in a paper poster or paper photograph is used especially for the plastic reproduction of paintings. A paper poster or paper photograph is thereby placed face down onto a structured matrix and fixed, the paper poster or paper photograph being equal in size to or smaller than the matrix. A canvas is then adhered onto the back surface of the poster or photograph and the resulting stack of layers cold pressed. After the pressing, the structured laminate of paper poster or paper photograph and adhered canvas is then removed from the matrix, mounted under tension onto a frame, and sealed. In the preferred embodiment, the matrix is an imprint of the original painting and the paper poster is a print of the original painting in the original size.

Abstract: A method of applying curved leg elastics to absorbent garments involves stretching and wrapping a pair of elastic ribbons about a first curved surface of a pair of pucks. A portion of each of the elastic ribbons is simultaneously folded onto a second surface of each of the pucks. The pucks are attached to a rotating device that rotates the pucks into alignment with a substrate. As the pucks are rotated toward the substrate, the pucks are also oscillated individually toward the substrate. Once the second surfaces of the pucks are aligned parallel to the substrate, the substrate is bonded to the second surface portion of each of the elastic ribbons in their stretched positions on the pucks, thereby forming finished seams. The resulting absorbent garments have gasket-like leg openings with improved comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Abstract: A thermoplastic binder applied in the vicinity of the roots of a pile surface structure, typically before stitching, is raised above its melting point but below the critical exposure temperature that can adversely affect the properties of the material forming the pile elements. While at this elevated temperature the pile surface structure is mechanically flexed, as by repeatedly bending the backing with the pile loops thereon into and out of its plane. This flexing action assists the molten (but not freely flowing) binder to propagate into the roots of the pile elements and into the interstices between the fibers forming the same.

Abstract: An absorbent article having a main body which includes a backsheet formed of a liquid impermeable sheet, a topsheet formed of a liquid permeable sheet, an absorbent core interposed between the backsheet and the topsheet, and leg gathers disposed along leg holes. Two sets of elastic members are, in a stretched state, bonded to a non-woven fabric along the leg holes. Each set of elastic members is not bonded to the non-woven fabric in a region which traverses a crotch region to extend from one of the leg holes to the other, and is cut in the non-bonded region so that the elastic members snap back toward crossing points where the two sets of the elastic members meet to form tails.

Abstract: A method of applying curved leg elastics to absorbent garments involves stretching and wrapping a pair of elastic ribbons about a first curved surface of a pair of pucks. A portion of each of the elastic ribbons is simultaneously folded onto a second surface of each of the pucks. The pucks are attached to a rotating device that rotates the pucks into alignment with a substrate. As the pucks are rotated toward the substrate, the pucks are also oscillated individually toward the substrate. Once the second surfaces of the pucks are aligned parallel to the substrate, the substrate is bonded to the second surface portion of each of the elastic ribbons in their stretched positions on the pucks, thereby forming finished seams. The resulting absorbent garments have gasket-like leg openings with improved comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Abstract: A method for applying fluids to a strand and useable for bonding adhesive coated strands to substrates in the production of bodily fluid absorbing hygienic articles, by drawing the strand along an isolated path, moving a fluid or adhesive fiber back and forth across a path of the strand as the fluid fiber is dispensed toward the strand, and capturing substantially all of the fluid fiber on the isolated strand, and in some applications contacting an adhesive coated strand with the substrate to bond the strand thereto. The adhesive fiber is vacillated back and forth across a path of the strand beyond opposing sides thereof to at least partially coat all sides thereof with adhesive. In bodily fluid absorbing hygienic articles, the methods substantially eliminate fabric stiffening and loss of moisture absorbing capacity thereof, provide substantially uniformly bonding along the axial dimension of the strand to ensure uniform bunching of fabrics, optimum fluid absorption, and comfort.

Abstract: The present invention provides a distinctive method and apparatus (20) for forming an article which includes one or more selectively configured strands of material. In particular aspects, the invention can provide a method and apparatus for wrapping a strand of material with selected filaments, and desirably, the filaments can be adhesive filaments. The technique of the invention can include a moving of a strand of material (22) at a selected speed along an appointed machine-direction (34). At least a first, substantially continuous filament (24) can be directed onto the strand of material (22) along a corresponding, oscillating filament path (26) to form a first plurality of filament threads (28) which extend from opposed lateral side regions (30) of the strand of material (22).

Abstract: A disposable sanitary article having elastic members extending to be associated with leg-openings secured under tension to the article along transversely opposite side edge portions of the sanitary article. The transversely opposite side edge portions respectively have first elastic zones extending across a crotch region in the longitudinal direction along a desired length, second elastic zones extending from the first elastic zones into a front waist region along a desired length and third elastic zones extending from the first elastic zones into a rear waist region along a desired length. The sections of the elastic members extending along the second elastic zones and the third elastic zones has values of stretch stress represented by a relationship of the second elastic zones<the third elastic zones or the third elastic zones<the second elastic zones.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for applying elastic material in a curvilinear pattern on a continuously moving substrate. The method moves a substrate along a substrate path, supplies the elastic material to an oscillation unit first roll mounted for pivoting and rolling engagement with a transfer roll, the pivoting being about a pivot axis parallel to the substrate path, oscillates the oscillation unit first roll such that the first roll pivot axis oscillates in a plane generally traverse to the substrate path, applies the elastic material from the first roll to the transfer roll in the desired curvilinear path configuration, then applies the elastic material from the transfer roll to the substrate and bonds the elastic material to the substrate. Optionally the first roll may apply the elastic material directly to the substrate.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for applying elastic material in a curvilinear pattern on a continuously moving substrate. The method moves a substrate along a substrate path, supplies the elastic material to an oscillation unit first roll mounted for pivoting and rolling engagement with a transfer roll, oscillates the oscillation unit in a path generally transverse to the substrate path, applies the elastic material from the first roll to the transfer roll in the desired curvilinear path configuration, then applies the elastic material from the transfer roll to the substrate and bonds the elastic material to the substrate. Optionally the first roll may apply the elastic material directly to the substrate.

Abstract: A composite reinforcing structure for reinforcing a structural member, a method of making the structure, and a method of using the structure to reinforce a structural member.

Abstract: A synthetic wood material and method are disclosed, including providing a plurality of continuous glass fibers oriented substantially in the longitudinal axis and coated with a resorcinol modified phenolic resin binder substantially free from catalyst. In one aspect, the synthetic wood material is oxidatively treated to restore color. In one aspect, the fibers and binder are precoated with a furfuryl alcohol resin prior to the pultrusion step to form the synthetic wood.

Abstract: A synthetic wood material and method are disclosed, including providing a plurality of continuous glass fibers oriented substantially in the longitudinal axis and coated with a resorcinol modified phenolic resin binder substantially free from catalyst. In one aspect, the synthetic wood material is oxidatively treated to restore color. In one aspect, the fibers and binder are precoated with a furfuryl alcohol resin prior to the pultrusion step to form the synthetic wood.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a three dimensional disposable garment, subassemblies of the garment, and apparatus and methods for making the garment and subassemblies. The garment is designed to hold a primary absorbent sanitary pad. The garment may have elasticized leg and waist openings and be stretchable about the hip and stomach regions of a user. The garment provides backup protection to control egress of fluids that leak or seep around or through the primary sanitary pad. The garment includes a secondary absorbent positioned in the crotch area and extending into the body of the disposable garment, front and back, and preferably over the leg elastics to trap, inside the garment, leakage from the primary absorbent, and to prevent strike through onto e.g. outer clothing and bed linen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of manufacturing an elastic laminate (1) in which a web (10) of elastic material is continuously fed out, stretched and attached in stretched condition to a supporting material in the shape of a moving support web (2). The support web (2) has a greater extension across the direction of movement of the web (2) than the web of elastic material (10), causing sections (18) of the supporting web (2) to protrude latitudinally on each side of the web (10) of elastic material. The laminate is divided into two longitudinal web-parts (20, 21) along a curved dividing line (15), causing the web (10) of elastic material to be cut off in a plurality of pieces (26) and tongues (23) of material formed from the divided web (10) of elastic material and flaps (25) laminated thereto from the supporting web (2) protrude out from, and are connected to, strip-formed edge-sections (18) of the supporting web (2) on both sides of the dividing line (15).

Abstract: An extendible sheet member is configurable between first and second states. The first state is a coiled state (1.1) in which the member is coiled substantially parallel to a first axis and the second state is an extended state (1.2) in which the member extends substantially parallel to a second axis at some angle to the first axis. The member is made wholly or in part from a material or materials which give rise to internal stresses upon extension, these stresses acting at some angle to the second axis such as to bias the member to the second state. In many embodiments these stresses are produced by fibers which form part of the structure of said member. Said member is preferably reversibly configurable between said first and second states.

Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for mesh integration and tension control, mesh retention, and mesh management of mesh-type deployable reflectors. The mesh members are comprised of a plurality of wedge-shaped gore members, each of which are pre-tensioned initially utilizing double-sided tape in a temporary manner prior to final stitching. String-like chord catenary members are positioned in pockets formed on the outer end of the gore members. The mesh member is attached to a ribbed reflector frame structure through a plurality of nodal assembly mechanisms. The nodal assemblies have spring biasing members for tensioning radial and transverse chord members along the reflector surface. A plurality of string-like members positioned in washers on the mesh member are used to maintain a tension field in the mesh member when the reflector is in its collapsed and stowed condition.

Abstract: Here is disclosed a method for manufacturing individual disposable underpants provided around a waist line and a pair of leg-holes with elastic members from two continuous webs and a plurality of continuous elastic members, characterized by that the webs are applied on predetermined locations with adhesive so that the elastic members can be reliably held on the webs although the elastic members must be forcibly curved when the elastic members are bonded between the webs with use of adhesive.