Article Is Sheet Or Web Patents (Class 156/181)
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Patent number: 6217691Abstract: A fibrous insulation media is formed from a non-woven mat of thermoplastic fibers having a mean diameter of less than about 15 microns. Preferably, when used as an acoustical insulation, the media is formed of fibers having a mean diameter of less than about 13 microns; the media has a density of less than about 60 Kg/m3; and the media has a Fraiser air permeability of less than 75 cubic feet per minute per square foot of surface area. The media has first and second major surfaces and a fibrous core with at least one of the major surfaces having an integral skin thereon. The skin is formed by melting fibers at and immediately adjacent the major surface of the mat formed into the media to form a thermoplastic melt layer which is subsequently solidified into a skin on the major surface of the mat. The thermoplastic fibers of the mat are point bonded together at spaced apart locations to increase the integrity of the mat.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1998Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Johns Manville International, Inc.Inventors: Larry Leroy Vair, Jr., Kenneth Andrew Clocksin
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Patent number: 6210511Abstract: In the production of a nonwoven fabric of thermally bonded fibers, a heavy web of fibers is continuously fed to a toothed cylinder at a slow speed to form a layer of fibers, and a portion of this layer is removed and formed into a lightweight uniform web at a faster speed. The second web is conveyed without draw to a calender having a bonding nip, and the fibers of the web are rearranged by compression and heating and are supported on a hot surface of one of the calender rolls prior to entering the nip to additionally improve uniformity.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1996Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Fibertech GroupInventors: Benjamin Michael Nolan, Joseph F. Merker
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Patent number: 6203646Abstract: A method of producing a mineral fibre element comprising a mineral fibre base layer having a surface coating in the form of a fibrous netting formed of a thermoplastic polymer material wherein such a surface coating is provided on at least a part of the surface of the base layer, wherein the surface coating is formed directly on the surface of the base layer and wherein the surface coating is formed by heating a thermoplastic polymer material so as to melt it and distributing the polymer melt obtained in the form of fibres and/or filaments on the surface of the base layer and cooling it to form a solid layer.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1997Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: Rockwool International A/SInventors: Martin Vendelbo Gundberg, Claus Bugge Garn
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Patent number: 6203645Abstract: A female fabric for use in a hook and loop connecting arrangement in which a plurality of spaced substantially parallel yarns having loops projecting from and integral therewith are held in spaced relationship by a suitable adhesive material.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1996Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: Milliken & CompanyInventor: Michael William Gilpatrick
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Patent number: 6182732Abstract: Nonwoven laminates are made by a multi-station line comprising at least one spunbond die assembly and at least one meltblowing die assembly. Each station includes (a) a melt spinning die which can be selectively equipped with a spunbond die insert or a meltblowing die insert and (b) a moveable support structure for adjusting the proper die-to-collector distance, depending on the spunbond or meltblowing mode of operation. The multi-station line permits the selective manufacture of a variety of spunbond (S) and meltblown (M) laminates, including the S-M-S laminate.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1998Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Nordson CorporationInventor: Martin A. Allen
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Patent number: 6176955Abstract: An apparatus and method for increasing the heating efficiency of a nonwoven web using heated air are provided. A flow modifier including a turbulence inducing bar arrangement is positioned between the heated air supply and the nonwoven web. The flow modifier increases the turbulence of the heated air before it contacts the nonwoven web, resulting in more thorough penetration of the web by the air, and better convective heat transfer between the heated air and the nonwoven web.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Bryan David Haynes, Jark C. Lau, Lee Cullen Boney, Robert James Baldy
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Patent number: 6159408Abstract: A disclosed process for producing a molded article made of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic material includes providing a molding machine containing a plasticizing apparatus having an opening for receiving raw materials, an apparatus for feeding the raw materials to the plasticizing apparatus and a molding apparatus having a cavity; feeding both thermoplastic material in a solid state and reinforcing fibers with a length from about 3 mm to about 50 mm simultaneously into the plasticizing apparatus through the opening from the feeding apparatus; melting the thermoplastic material and kneading the thermoplastic material and the reinforcing fibers in the plasticizing apparatus to produce kneaded material comprising the thermoplastic material and the reinforcing fibers; supplying the kneaded material to the molding apparatus from the plasticizing apparatus; and molding the kneaded material into the molded article in the cavity is provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1998Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Sumitomo Chemical Company, Ltd.Inventors: Takeo Kitayama, Shigeyoshi Matsubara
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Patent number: 6159318Abstract: A method, apparatus and filter unit product wherein filter media fibers are fed from a media supply source to a mat forming interchangeable and movable contoured surface to contour shape a filter media mat into a preselected form for subsequent movement to a transfer zone for further contour shaping and processing into filter unit products with preselected frame arrangements.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1998Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: AAF International, Inc.Inventor: Kyung-Ju Choi
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Patent number: 6136124Abstract: A process for producing a structured, voluminous nonwowen comprises the following steps: (a) a spun nonwoven is produced from a plurality of individual filaments which are stretched and gathered into a skein of fibers; (b) the skein is pressed and not-bonded into a crude nonwoven (12) through a first pair of rollers (9a, b); and (c) the crude nonwoven is further processed through a second pair of rollers (10a, b). The process is characterized in that the individual filaments are initially stretched merely up to a range from 50 to 70% of their maximum possible extension, and in that the crude nonwoven (12) is further processed through a pair of rollers (10a, b) composed of a positive roller (10a) with numerous nops or elevations (11) distributed over the outer surface of the roller and of a negative roller (10) with just as numerous recesses or depressions (12). During rolling, the nops engage the recesses and further stretch the crude non-woven in the area of the roller nops.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1998Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: HCD Hygienic Composites Development GmbHInventor: Werner Wagner
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Patent number: 6120633Abstract: A self-supporting filter media, comprising a batt made of thermoplastic fibers, and heat induced scores provided at predetermined intervals along a length of the batt. And, a method of fabricating a self-supporting filter media, the method comprising the steps of: providing a thermoplastic batt of fibers; adding an adhesive to the batt; heating the batt and the adhesive to bind the fibers with the adhesive; heat scoring the batt at periodic intervals for producing a scored batt of fibers; and rolling the scored batt of fibers for storage or shipment.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: HRS Textiles, Inc.Inventor: Harley LeMaster
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Patent number: 6107220Abstract: The invention comprises a flat or shaped fabric structure of yarn groups each yarn group comprising a plurality of yarn subgroups, each group positioned for covering an area. The structure comprises at least a first group of flexible yarns densely covering an area , the yarns within the first group following substantially parallel paths in a first direction and forming a stack with at least a second group of flexible yarns densely covering substantially the same area, the yarns within the second group following substantially parallel paths in a second direction; the yarns in the first group arranged to cross the yarns in the second group, optionally containing other groups of yarn, the yarns in the upper-most subgroup of the stack are connected to the yarns in the bottom-most subgroup of the stack either directly of through the yarns in other subgroups providing an interlaced fabric structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1997Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Peter Popper, William Charles Walker, Albert S. Tam, Paul Wesley Yngve, James K. Odle, George Yeaman Thomson, Jr.
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Patent number: 6080257Abstract: A protective cover for application to multi-surface or multi-faceted structures or objects, such as posts, piers, stairs, which have two or more parallel edges or corners. The protective cover includes a foldable elongated flexible sheet of shock absorbing material adapted to be folded about the structure. The foldable elongated flexible sheet of shock absorbing material includes spaced apart fold lines that extend in the same direction as the edges or corners the fold lines are to fold about. The foldable elongated flexible sheet preferably comprises a flexible porous filamentary cover.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Assignee: Western Plastics, Inc.Inventor: Howard G. Magoffin
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Patent number: 6071578Abstract: The present invention relates to a tubular fabric for receiving an underwire in a garment such as a bra. The tubular fabric is formed by arranging a fusible yarn, such as Grilon (Registered Trade Mark), on the interior surface of the tube and melting said yarn to coat the interior surface.On cooling the melted yarn sets to form a durable lining which exhibits excellent resistance to penetration by underwires.The invention also relates to garments, such as bras, basques and swimming costumes, incorporating the tubular fabric of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 1997Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Price Shepshed LimitedInventors: Roy Richardson, Robert Arthur Glenn
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Patent number: 6066221Abstract: A zoned hot air knife assembly and process include a plurality of discrete, spaced apart air knives is useful for the inter-filament bonding of nonwoven webs, for the thermal bonding of laminates including nonwoven webs, and other applications. The zoned hot air knife assembly and process facilitate the manufacture of low bond area, low density nonwoven webs and laminates having high structural integrity. The zoned hot air knife also reduces the amount of heated air and, thus, energy required for the production of thermally bonded nonwoven webs and laminates.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1997Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Samuel Edward Marmon, Christopher Cosgrove Creagan, Stephen H. Primm, Thomas Gregory Triebes
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Patent number: 6054205Abstract: The invention provides a glass fiber facing sheet for engineered surfaces such as cement boards which reduces the pitting associated with open mesh glass scrims. The glass fiber facing sheet comprises an open mesh glass scrim having a plurality of intersecting continuous multifilament yarns which are bonded at their crossover points to provide dimensional stability to the scrim. A melt blown polymer web is preferably joined to one face of the glass scrim and covers the mesh openings in the scrim. The opposed face of the scrim defines an exposed grid profile surface which is available for mechanical interaction between the scrim and the cementitious slurry used in cement boards. In cement boards, the glass fiber facing sheet of the present invention is preferably mechanically integrated into a surface portion of the cement core along the exposed grid profile of the scrim.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1997Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Assignee: Clark-Schwebel Tech-Fab CompanyInventors: Nicholas S. Newman, Gordon L. Brown, Jr., R. Bruce Hinton, Andrew D. Broadway, Chia-Te Chou
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Patent number: 6045908Abstract: There is disclosed a biodegradable composite fiber comprising a first component consisting of a single component fiber produced by melt-spinning a biodegradable polymer composition consisting of a starch-based polymer, a partially hydrolyzed copolymer of vinyl acetate and an unsaturated monomer containing no functional groups, an aliphatic polyester, a decomposition accelerating agent, and a plasticizer, or such a biodegradable polymer composition; and a second component consisting of an aliphatic polyester, in which the first component is present continuously in the lengthwise direction over at least a part of the surface of the fiber of the second component, and there is also disclosed a non-woven fabric, a knitted fabric, and a molded article produced from this fiber.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1997Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Chisso CorporationInventors: Yuji Nakajima, Masahiko Taniguchi
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Patent number: 6010770Abstract: A laminate structure of a retroreflective film includes one layer of a prismatic plastic film laminated to a heat sealable, white polyester film having a pattern of aluminum deposited such that the resulting laminate is very cost effective to produce and has superior whiteness properties when compared to conventional films.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1997Date of Patent: January 4, 2000Assignee: Advanced Deposition Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Glenn J. Walters
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Patent number: 5997989Abstract: A spunbonded elastic nonwoven fabric comprises a web of bonded thermoplastic filaments of a thermoplastic elastomer. The spunbonded fabrics of the invention are prepared in a slot draw spunbonding process operated at a rate of less than about 2000 meters per minute. The elastic fabric is used in absorbent products, such as disposable diapers, adult incontinence pads, sanitary napkins and the like, and as coverstock for absorbent personal care products.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: BBA Nonwovens Simpsonville, Inc.Inventors: Scott L. Gessner, David D. Newkirk, Michael M. Thomason, James O. Reeder
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Patent number: 5985071Abstract: A method of making a reinforced laminate, including the steps of placing a reinforcing grid on a first outer sheet of thermoplastic, preparing an elastomeric material capable of forming a tie layer between two sheets of thermoplastic, and laminating a second outer sheet of thermoplastic to the first sheet of thermoplastic and the reinforcing grid with the tie layer of elastomeric material therebetween, whereby the reinforcing grid is held by the elastomeric tie layer in between the first outer sheet of thermoplastic and the second outer sheet of thermoplastic, and the reinforcing grid being displaceable within the elastomeric tie layer.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: Reef Industries, Inc.Inventors: Lyndell Kyle Wynne, Abdeally Mohammed
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Patent number: 5972147Abstract: A process is provided for producing a bonded nonwoven sheet from a lightly consolidated fibrous polyolefin sheet wherein the sheet is preheated on one or more preheating rolls, is bonded in one or more calendering nips, and is cooled on one or more cooling rolls. The process is used to make bonded polyolefin fibrous sheets that are smooth, are substantially impermeable to air and water, and are moisture vapor permeable.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1998Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventor: Rudolph F. Janis
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Patent number: 5958322Abstract: A method and apparatus for tentering nonwoven webs during annealing. The nonwoven web of thermoplastic fibers is restrained on a tentering structure at a plurality of tentering points distributed across an interior portion of the web, rather than just along its edges. The nonwoven web is annealed while restrained on the tentering structure to form a dimensionally stable nonwoven fibrous web, dimensionally stable up to at least the heatsetting temperature. The annealed nonwoven fibrous web is then removed from the tentering structure. In one embodiment, the tentering structure restrains the nonwoven fibrous web in a non-planar configuration during the annealing process. The tentering structure includes a plurality of tentering points projecting distally from a tentering support. The tentering points are positioned to be engaged with an interior portion of the web, thus restraining the web during annealing.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: 3M Innovation Properties CompanyInventors: Delton R. Thompson, David A. Olson, Pamela A. Percha
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Patent number: 5955012Abstract: Substantially constant tension is maintained on a melt-blown nonwoven fibrous sheet by mounting the sheet take-up roller for longitudinal movements relative so as to accommodate the increasing diameter of the sheet material being wound convolutely on the take-up roller. Sheet tension during production is thereby maintained substantially constant by virtue of a continual increase in the longitudinal distance (in relation to the machine direction) between the fiber collection mandrel and the take-up roll. Preferably, tension control is achieved by a pneumatic pressure-regulating system which includes at least one rotatable press roller which is longitudinally fixed in position relative to the collection mandrel and is in contact with the sheet material being wound around the take-up roll. The take-up roller is pneumatically advanced toward the press roller by the pneumatic actuation of at least one air cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1997Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Assignee: USF Fultration and Separations Group Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Yingling, Charles S. Hoffman, Jr., Robert J. Schmitt
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Patent number: 5951815Abstract: An apparatus for the manufacture of a reinforcement from a thread directed in its final position by projecting lengths of the thread for laying the thread onto a receiving surface (S). The apparatus includes an assembly (5) having rollers (15) for the advancing of thread (1), a rotary conduit (2), a knife (3) for cutting the thread and freeing a length (10) upon each turn of said rotary conduit (2), and a thread guide (4) to receive the cut lengths of thread. The thread guide includes a cradle (41) provided with a fastening surface (42) which permits the detachable mounting of said thread guide (4) to said assembly (5).Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: SedeproInventor: Claude Debroche
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Patent number: 5913993Abstract: The invention relates to a nonwoven fabric made from a nylon and polyethylene blend. The addition of polyethylene enhances specific properties such as softness, lower production cost, improved process capabilities, and ease of further downstream processing such as bonding to other fabrics or itself.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1997Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Assignee: Cerex Advanced Fabrics, L.P.Inventors: Albert E. Ortega, R. Wayne Thomley
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Patent number: 5891284Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for forming a fabric, suitable for mailing a finished composite product, using one or more composite strands. One embodiment of the apparatus comprises at least one bushing for forming reinforcing fibers; supply equipment for supplying matrix fibers; at least one applicator for applying bonding size (i.e., bonding chemical treatment) to the fibers; a gathering mechanism for gathering the treated fibers into at least one composite strand; a pulling mechanism for pulling the at least one composite strand; and a fabric forming mechanism for forming a fabric using the at least one composite strand.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1997Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.Inventors: Andrew B. Woodside, Margaret M. Woodside, Douglas B. Mann
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Patent number: 5885399Abstract: Compound threads (1) and the fabrics obtained therefrom are very inexpensive, of acceptable quality and preferably useable to make recyclable disposable garments. The threads (1) include a thin carrier thread (2) to which a web mass (3), coming from the carding of the fiber used, is adhered, preferably by use of a water-soluble glue or electrostatic means. The compound thread (1) has the possibility of making use, upon making the web (3), of the shortest fibrils that are usually disposed of. One of the fabrics obtained consists of a band or strip of web (3) that includes several carrier threads (2) placed parallel to each other and that can be cut to obtain compound threads (1.) Another fabric consists of weft thread and crossed warp thread of which all or some, depending on the different combinations, are compound threads (1.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: TT IU, S.L.Inventors: Antonio Caballero Rodriguez, Leopoldo Marti Andres
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Patent number: 5858515Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pattern-unbonded nonwoven fabric having continuous bonded areas defining a plurality of discrete unbonded areas, which is suitable for use as an improved loop fastening material for hook and loop fastening systems. The fibers or filaments within the discrete unbonded areas of the present invention are dimensionally stabilized by the continuous bonded areas that encircle or surround each unbonded area. The spaces between fibers or filaments within the unbonded areas remain sufficiently open or large to receive and engage hook elements of a complementary hook material. The hook material can be any of a wide variety of commercially available hook components which, as is known in the art, typically include a base material from which a plurality of hook elements project.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1996Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Ty Jackson Stokes, Cedric Arnett Dunkerly, II, Darryl Franklin Clark, Scot Patrick Honer
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Patent number: 5858152Abstract: A method for the production of a completely impregnated composite material having the surface thereof coated with a thermosetting resin and essentially consisting of a thermoplastic resin matrix including minute voids filled with a thermosetting resin and reinforcing fibers, which method comprises setting in place a roller and a collecting section disposed in the direction of the rotation of the roller, rotating the roller, feeding thermoplastic resin fibers and reinforcing fibers to the roller, causing the roller to throw a uniform mixture of the two types of fibers onto the collecting section, thereby forming a composite mat of the uniform mixture on the collecting section, then thermally compressing the composite mat and further solidifying the compressed composite mat by cooling and forming a composite material of the shape of a plate, further heating the composite material, thereby melting and expanding the thermoplastic resin forming the matrix, then cooling the expanded composite material, thereby formType: GrantFiled: November 2, 1995Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Assignees: Agency of Industrial Science & Technology, Ministry of International Trade & IndustryInventors: Yoshihiro Nagatsuka, Takeshi Kitano
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Patent number: 5853635Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of forming a heteroconstituent nonwoven web including a mixture of different filament types simultaneously formed into the same web. The filament types may differ as to polymer composition, additive loadings, fiber size, fiber shape, and/or degree of crimping. The invention is also directed to a method of forming a multilayered nonwoven structure in which different filament types constituting different layers are simultaneously formed.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1997Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Morell, Bryan D. Haynes
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Patent number: 5776343Abstract: An apertured film extruded from a crystalline, thermoplastic, extrudable fluoroplastic material. The film includes spaced-apart strand segments defining apertures therebetween and has at least 10 strand segments per inch. The film has a thickness of 2-12 mils and a Frazier air permeability number in the range of 200-2,000. The invention includes a process for preparing an apertured thermoplastic film by a single-sided embossing method. The process includes the steps of extruding in the machine direction, a film of a molten, crystalline, thermoplastic, extrudable, fluoroplastic material. The molten extruded film is passed in the machine direction through the nip of two metal rollers. One of the rollers has a substantially smooth surface, having a convex configuration as viewed from a direction substantially parallel to the axis of the roll, such that the diameter in the center of the roll is in the range of 8-12 mils greater than the diameter at the ends of the roller for a 40 inch roller.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1995Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Assignee: Applied Extrusion Technologies, Inc.Inventors: D. Timothy Cullen, Edward E. Hovis, Joseph V. Marra
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Patent number: 5762734Abstract: A method of producing a fiber is provided where a liquefied polymer is divided into at least two streams. The streams are directed separately to a point of recombination, and extruded through, for example, a spinneret, and fiberized to form a single fiber having portions of each stream. The divided polymer streams are treated substantially identically from the point of division to the point of recombination.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1996Date of Patent: June 9, 1998Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Mary Lucille DeLucia, Samuel Edward Marmon
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Patent number: 5747584Abstract: This invention relates to a nonwoven material comprising an adhesive comprising polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). This invention also relates to an absorbent article comprising such nonwoven material. This invention also relates to a composition comprising PHA and a surfactant. This invention relates to a method for preparing the nonwoven material.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 1997Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Isao Noda
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Patent number: 5730821Abstract: A process for producing a web fleece of thermoplastic polymer filaments. Filaments of thermoplastic polymer are spun from a spinneret to form a curtain passing through a cooling chamber and a stretching channel. The volume rate of flow of the thermoplastic polymer from the spinneret, the volume rate of flow of air, the velocity of the air and the temperature of the air in the cooling chamber and stretching channel are so controlled that individual filaments of the curtain have filament diameters less than .mu.m and a degree of crystallinity less than 45%. The filaments of the curtain are collected on a continuously moving sieve belt in a mat whose crossing points fuse together. The mat is heated to a stretching temperature of 80.degree. to 150.degree. C. and stretched axially by 100 to 400%. The biaxially stretched mat is heated to a temperature above that of the stretching temperature to thermofix the web.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1996Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Assignee: Reifenhauser GmbH & Co. MaschinenfabrikInventors: Rolf Helmut Joest, Hans Georg Geus, Hermann Balk, Bernd Kunze, Herbert Schulz
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Patent number: 5720838Abstract: A doormat is formed by accumulating a large number of monofilaments in a random loop form continuously to present a mottled pattern or a striped pattern by the combination of color monofilaments of two or more colors. This manufacturing device comprises a spinning pack having a rectangular shape for spinning a large number of monofilaments, a plurality of extruders disposed at symmetrical positions in the longitudinal direction of the spinning pack, and a collecting mechanism for collecting the monofilaments spun from the spinning pack. The spinning pack is provided with a resin flowpath unit and a multihole nozzle plate which are superposed, and the resin flowpath unit is connected to the extruders by means of communicating pipe lines disposed at symmetrical positions in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 1996Date of Patent: February 24, 1998Assignee: Yugengaisya TowaInventor: Akira Nakata
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Patent number: 5707468Abstract: There is provided a process which comprises the step of subjecting a just produced spunbond web to a high flow rate, heated stream of air across substantially the width of the web to very lightly bond the fibers of the web together. Such bonding should be the minimum necessary in order to satisfy the needs of further processing yet not detrimentally affect the web. The fibers of the web may be monocomponent or biconstituent and the web should be substantially free of adhesives and not subjected to compaction rolls.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1994Date of Patent: January 13, 1998Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Billy Dean Arnold, Samuel Edward Marmon, Richard Daniel Pike, Stephen Harding Primm, Lawrence James Romano, III, Philip Anthony Sasse
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Patent number: 5702801Abstract: A corrugated fiberfill structure is provided including at least one fibrous web folded to form a plurality of pleats having alternating crests and bases, each of the pleats having a pair of legs in which each of the legs has a first leg surface and a second leg surface, the first leg surface of one leg being in intimate contact with the first leg surface of an adjoining leg of the pleat and the second leg surface of the one leg being in intimate contact with the second leg surface of one adjoining leg of an adjacent pleat over a portion of each leg. At least some crests define a first structural surface and at least some bases define a second structural surface; with the distance between the first and second structural surfaces defining the thickness of the structure. The pleats of the structure are so arranged across the thickness that the density of the structure varies between the first and second structural surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1995Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: Shinih Enterprise Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jung-Fu Chien
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Patent number: 5695373Abstract: A preformed, unitary composite for reinforcing while suppressing curl in bituminous roofing membranes includes as a first layer, an open, non-woven grid of low shrinkage, continuous filament polyester yarns that are at low tension and adhesively secured together, and as a second layer, a lightweight, preformed fiberglass mat, the second layer being adhesively secured to one side of the first layer. The adhesive secures the two layers together such that at least some of the individual yarns of the first layer are at least partially coated and impregnated by the adhesive without forming a film that closes all openings through the composite. The adhesive that secures the continuous filament yarns of the first layer together and that secures the first and second layers together is a vulcanizable rubber binder, such as cross-linked styrene butadiene rubber, which includes about 50 to about 80% styrene.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1996Date of Patent: December 9, 1997Assignee: Bay Mills LimitedInventors: Phillip W. Blackmore, Charles Peter Skelton
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Patent number: 5667613Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a machine for producing a reinforcement in the form of a block for a composite component formed by said reinforcement embedded in a cured matrix.According to the invention, said block (B) is made up by continuously forming a succession of superposed sheets, and the machine, comprising a stand provided with a subframe and with uprights for mounting at least one frame which can move along said uprights, capable of receiving a thread laying-down tool which can move in a plane transverse to said uprights, is noteworthy in that it comprises an additional frame (6) which can move along said uprights (4) and is provided with pegs (9) for hooking on said straight portions of thread (F).Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1995Date of Patent: September 16, 1997Assignee: Aerospatiale Societe Nationale IndustrielleInventors: Lucien Fantino, Georges Cahuzac
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Patent number: 5665300Abstract: An improved process and apparatus are provided for the formation of a spun-bonded fibrous web suitable for service in nonwoven end uses. A melt-processable thermoplastic polymeric material is melt-extruded to form a multifilamentary spinline, is quenched, and is wrapped about at least two spaced driven draw rolls that are surrounded by a shroud prior to collection to form a web, and is bonded to form a spun-bonded nonwoven product. The draw rolls exert a pulling force on the multifilamentary spinline so as to accomplish drawing of the molten multifilamentary spinline prior to complete solidification. The shroud makes possible the self-stringing of the spinline around the draw rolls. A pneumatic jet located at the exit end of the shroud assists in the contact of the multifilamentary spinline with the draw rolls in order to facilitate the imposition of a uniform pulling force and expels the multifilamentary spinline in the direction of its length toward a support where it is collected.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1996Date of Patent: September 9, 1997Assignee: Reemay Inc.Inventors: Edward L. Brignola, Alvin A. Fleck, Price W. LaCroix, Edward K. Willis, Leon H. Zimmerman, deceased
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Patent number: 5635124Abstract: The present invention is an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fiber with improved handling properties. Unlike previous expanded PTFE fibers, the fiber of the present invention employs a fiber of increased thickness so that the fiber is maintained in an unfolded orientation. The improved processing steps of the present invention create a fiber that has a number of improved properties, including more uniform dimensions along its length, improved compressibility and handling, and when woven into a fabric, the fabric is more easily processed, is of higher quality, and is more uniform.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1995Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.Inventors: Brad F. Abrams, Raymond B. Minor, Gordon L. McGregor, John W. Dolan
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Patent number: 5626700Abstract: An apparatus for forming reinforcing structural rebar comprising a core of a thermosetting resin containing reinforcing material and an outer of sheet molding compound is provided. The apparatus comprises layer reinforcing material supply, a thermosetting resin supply means, a shaping die, means for impregnating the reinforcing material the reinforcing material with resin, means for pulling the reinforcing material through the shaping die to form the core of the thermosetting resin containing reinforcing material, sheet molding compound supply, guide means for guiding the sheet molding compound onto the core, and mold means for molding the outer layer of sheet molding compound onto the core.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 1996Date of Patent: May 6, 1997Assignee: Marshall Industries CompositesInventor: Mark A. Kaiser
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Patent number: 5618367Abstract: A process for preparing uni-tape prepreg from polymer powder coated filamentary towpregs is provided. A plurality of polymer powder coated filamentary towpregs are provided. The towpregs are collimated so that each towpreg is parallel. A material is applied to each side of the towpreg to form a sandwich. The sandwich is heated to a temperature wherein the polymer flows and intimately contacts the filaments and pressure is repeatedly applied perpendicularly to the sandwich with a longitudinal oscillating action wherein the filaments move apart and the polymer wets the filaments forming a uni-tape prepreg. The uni-tape prepreg is subsequently cooled.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1995Date of Patent: April 8, 1997Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Steven P. Wilkinson, Norman J. Johnston, Joseph M. Marchello
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Patent number: 5617902Abstract: A method to prevent fiber distortion in textile materials employed in a modified weaving process. In a first embodiment, a tacifier in powder form is applied to the yarn and melted while on the fabric. Cool air is then supplied after the tacifier has melted to expedite the solidification of the tacifier. In a second embodiment, a solution form of a tacifier is used by dissolving the tacifier into a solvent that has a high evaporation rate. The solution is then sprayed onto the fabric or fill yarn as each fill yarn is inserted into a shed of the fabric. A third embodiment applies the tacifier in a liquid form that has not been dissolved in a solvent. That is, the tacifier is melted and is sprayed as a liquid onto the fabric or fill yarn as it is being extracted from a fill yarn spool prior to the fill yarn being inserted into the shed of the fabric. A fourth embodiment employs adhesive yarns contained as an integral part of the warp or fill yarn.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1995Date of Patent: April 8, 1997Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Gary L. Farley
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Patent number: 5609936Abstract: A drying screen for paper making machines is described which comprises at least one layer of a thread composite and a thin glued-on, perforated or slit sheet i.e., with thermoplastic material-comprising filaments. The individual layers are preferably connected to one another in three layers and arranged one above the other, with the layer facing the paper web always being oriented in the direction of paper travel.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1994Date of Patent: March 11, 1997Assignee: Wurttembergische Filztuchfabrik D. Geschmay GmbHInventors: Ernst Kohler, Bernd Sabrowski, Ulrich Altenhofen
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Patent number: 5601629Abstract: A fiberglass product usable as an end product or an intermediate product is formed as a pack in a forming station but only 1/7th of the conventional quantity of binder is applied. After curing to a self-sustaining form, additional binder is added in an amount in excess of the amount required in the final product and then the excess binder and moisture is removed by one or more stripping steps. Additional moisture is removed by electronic means to the desired moisture level for commercial products.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1994Date of Patent: February 11, 1997Inventor: Clarence H. Helbing
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Patent number: 5589258Abstract: Nonwoven material comprising a web of spunbonded polymer filaments in combination with at least one other spunbond or meltblown nonwoven layer with the combination impregnated with a stabilizing agent and the spunbond layer having been hot calendered to improve surface abrasion resistance. Preferred embodiments using a coating bath also including a surfactant and smooth calendering.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1991Date of Patent: December 31, 1996Assignee: Kimberly-Clark LimitedInventors: Peter Maddern, Kenneth J. G. Currie
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Patent number: 5575874Abstract: A shaped nonwoven fabric comprises continuous spunbond filaments made by directly forming the spunbond filaments into a web in a single process. The fabric has an array of discrete surface features such as apertures or projections, or both. The spunbond filaments are bonded together with an adhesive polymeric component so that the shape of the fabric is retained. The fabric can be engineered to have particular fluid handling properties, strength properties, abrasive properties and aesthetic properties. Articles such as personal care products, garments, medical products and cleaning products are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1995Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Assignee: Kimberly-Clark CorporationInventors: Henry L. Griesbach, III, Richard D. Pike, Sharon W. Gwaltney, Ruth L. Levy, Lawrence H. Sawyer, Richard M. Shane, Philip A. Sasse
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Patent number: 5547536Abstract: A ballistic laminate structure in sheet form, which includes a first array of high performance, unidirectionally-oriented fiber bundles and a second array of high performance, unidirectionally-oriented fiber bundles cross-plied at an angle with respect to the first array of fiber bundles, and laminated to the first array of fiber bundles in the absence of adhesives or bonding agents. First and second thermoplastic films are bonded to outer surfaces of the laminated first and second arrays of unidirectional fiber bundles without penetration of the films into fiber bundles or through the laminate from one side to the other.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1994Date of Patent: August 20, 1996Inventor: Andrew D. Park
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Patent number: 5518567Abstract: A process for producing a composite material part having a central hollow body with edge ailerons extending outwardly therefrom in which peripheral mandrels 1 are joined and a peripheral mandrels 1 then being turned round and pressed against a central mandrel 16 on which another filament has been wound. The filaments are impregnated and polymerized to form the desired part.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1994Date of Patent: May 21, 1996Assignee: Aerospatiale Societe Nationale IndustrielleInventor: Jacques Fages
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Patent number: 5509986Abstract: A process for preparing an ignition resistant carbonaceous material by exposing a meltblown or spunbonded acrylic precursor material in the form of at least one ply of a generally planar fibrous web, matt or batt to ionizing radiation to crosslink said acrylic material which is then heat treated in an inert atmosphere to increase the carbon content of said irradiated material to form said carbonaceous material. The invention also resides in a continuous self bonded fibrous carbonaceous material having a carbon content of from about 65% to less than about 92%, an oxygen content of less than about 2%, and a specific resistivity of from about 10.sup.-1 to about 10.sup.-10 ohm-cm. Preferably said carbonaceous material has an oxygen content of less than about 1% and a nitrogen content of from about 5% to about 30%.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1994Date of Patent: April 23, 1996Assignee: The Dow Chemical CompanyInventor: Francis P. McCullough, Jr.