Abstract: A reinforced composite structure (29) is disclosed. The structure is formed by opposed layers of material extending over a core and continuous bundles stitched in a repeating pattern through the opposed layers (30, 32) and the intermediate core (28) to form the reinforced composite structural member (29).

Abstract: A gardening aid in the form of a nylon pruning cloth which has a split down its center and terminates at a central circular section. A pouch is sewn on one side of the cloth to collect pruned clippings. The pruning cloth fits around the base of a shrub or tree and catches the clippings as they fall. When the pruned specimen is completely trimmed, any of the clippings which have not fallen from the specimen onto the pruning cloth may be swept thereupon and towed away for easy and clean removal from a particular work site.

Abstract: An interactive thermal insulating system of the present invention includes at least three layers. The first layer is a high density layer comprising a substrate is coated with a polymer binder in which a plurality of microspheres containing a phase change material are dispersed. The second layer is a low density fibrous mesh in which individual fibers contain a plurality of microspheres containing a phase change material dispersed therein. A third layer is a flexible substrate. The fibrous mesh is sandwiched between the coated layer and the third layer. The layers are bonded together by stitching at regular intervals, lamination, or other methods of connection. Most preferably, the phase change materials contained in the microspheres include paraffinic hydrocarbons.

Abstract: An anti-theft device having a thin element configured like a flexible material sheet which can be extended flat on the ground and a plurality of flexible ties which are attached to the periphery of the element and to a unique junction part fixed to the article to be protected against theft. The thin element is covered with a ballast-forming sand layer. Any traction exerted on the protected article will result in the back-folding of the element around the ballast by the tightening of the sides of the element so as to form a burden opposing the traction effort exerted on the article to be protected.

Abstract: A strap for use on footwear. The strap is comprised of a sheet-like member partially split into two thinner sections. Typically, to the bottom surface of the lower section a VELCRO.RTM. pad is secured by stitching. The two sections are then rejoined permenantly, as by gluing and/or stitching. The result is a strap which has a joinder or fastening means on the underside thereof which is permanently attached to the strap, but whose top surface (the top surface of the first section) is more aesthetically pleasing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a penetration-resistant composition comprising at least one layer in which fibers having a tenacity of at least 900 MPa (7 g/denier) according to ASTM D-885 are present and which layer is bonded to a polymeric continuum having a flexural modulus of 42 to 1,000 MPa according to ASTM D-790, a tensile strength at break of at least 10 MPa according to ASTM D-638 and an elongation to break of at least 100% according to ASTM D-638.The invention furthermore relates to armour comprising multiple layers of such a composition and to a process for manufacturing such a composition.

Abstract: A sealing mat is proposed for use in civil and underground engineering for the insulation of soil against liquids, especially water, having two outer layers consisting of a fibrous material, between which is placed a powder of mineral sealing material, e.g. bentonite, and the two layers are connected with each other, whereby between the two layers (1, 2) an aero-fleece is place, in which the powder (4) of mineral sealing material is stored, and the two layers (1, 2) are sewn to each other with the aero-fleece located in between.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a reusable thermal pack that comprises a bag formed of a water-permeable fabric defining a plurality of laterally adjacent compartments, and a superabsorbent polymer disposed in the bag compartments, wherein the polymer forms a gel in the presence of an aqueous solution, and the bag compartments are gel-retainable. The thermal pack of the present invention can be applied as a cold or hot compress for medicinal purposes, and also as an aid for cooling down following exercise. The thermal pack of the present invention, once hydrated in the presence of the aqueous solution, becomes cool and stays cool for several days without refrigeration, and can be made cooler if chilled in the refrigerator or freezer, or warmed if placed in the microwave, if desired.

Abstract: An impressed emblem is disclosed which includes a cover sheet which is used together with heat and pressure to impress a desired pattern on an emblem. The emblem can also be impressed with a pattern and simultaneously heat-sealed onto a desired substrate.

Abstract: The base material can be obtained by means of the realisation, on a support made out of material or nonmaterial, of a system of two crossed orders, uniformly distributed, of rectilinear stitching carried out with a yarn having a metallic core inside. In this way, an incorporated shielding metallic screen made of metallic cores is obtained.

Abstract: A wall lining material consists of an upper mat body, a lower mat body and a granular moisture absorbent. The upper mat body and the lower mat body are made of a nonwoven fabric containing a multiplicity of fibers. The moisture absorbent is located between these two mat bodies. The mat bodies are sewn together over the laminated portion at many points by means of needle punching. This needle punching causes the fibers in the upper mat body to be connected with those in the lower mat wed and vice versa.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a three-dimensionally reinforced ablative/insulative composite that includes a high density fabric-based ablative layer and a low density resin-based insulative layer that is chemically bound to the ablative layer. This composite further includes stitches of a temperature-resistant thread which extend through the ablative layer and form reinforcing loops within the insulative layer. These loops are preferably chemically and mechanically bound to the insulative layer.

Abstract: A laminated fibrous structure comprising at least two fibrous sheets and a method for manufacturing same are provided. At least one, and preferably two, of the fibrous sheets may be embossed. The sheets are movably joined together in a face-to-face relationship to form a laminated structure such that the sheets are able to move relative each other during the use of the laminated structure by a consumer, without tearing or separation of any one of the sheets comprising the laminated structure. The sheets comprising the laminated structure may be movably joined by using a bonding material, by mechanically engaging upstanding fibers created on the interfacing surfaces of the sheets, or by a combination of the bonding material and engaging the upstanding fibers.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method a method of making a material for thermal cores and the material so made. In particular, the present invention disclose a method including the steps of applying thermally conductive particles over at least a portion of a fiber layer, providing another fiber layer upon the fiber layer, and repeating the above steps as desired. In another aspect of the present invention is disclosed a method of making a thermally conductive material including applying thermally conductive particles upon at least a portion of a fiber prepreg layer, providing another fiber prepreg layer upon the fiber layer, repeating the above steps as desired, and bonding the fiber prepreg layers, including the thermally conductive particles, together. The material in accordance with the present invention includes a plurality of layers made of thermally conductive fibers bonded by a resin, and a plurality of interposed layers of resin having a high concentration of high conductivity particles therein.

Abstract: A method of forming a pin-reinforced foam core sandwich structure (10) including placing first and second face sheets (12), (14) on opposite sides of a foam core (16), the foam core (16) having at least one low density sublayer (28), an optional high density foam sublayer (26), and a plurality of Z-pins (20) positioned therein. The combination of the foam core (16) and face sheets (12), (14) forming a preliminary structure. Autoclave curing the preliminary structure according to a particular temperature and pressure regime, to crush the at least one low density sublayer (28) and to force the plurality of Z-pins (20) into the first and second face sheets (12), (14). Also provided is a pin-reinforced foam core sandwich structure (10) formed by the above process. In a second embodiment, all, or a portion, of the foam core (16) is removed using a solvent to dissolve the foam core (16), but not the Z-pins, to create a column structure (40).

Abstract: Prefabricated composite detail parts use precured strips that include Z-pin reinforcement along the bond line. Each strip has Z-pin stubble protruding from opposed faces so that the pins are embedded into the detail parts when the joint forms.

Abstract: A nonwoven bulky composite sheet material has first and second vapor permeable layers on opposite sides of a third layer of a bulky, flexible material. The third layer has a thickness in the range of 0.3 to 3.0 mm before being bonded between said first and second layers. The first layer, the second layer and the third layer are bonded together to form a flexible composite sheet with a thickness of at least 0.3 3 mm and a moisture vapor transmission of at least 100 g/m.sup.2 in 24 hours.

Abstract: The Impact Cushion is a device created to reduce head and facial injury associated with the head banging and face rubbing behavior of acting out children and youth who are being restrained by adult caretakers in prone or supine positions on the floor or ground. The cushion is positioned between the child's or youth's head and the floor or ground to reduce impact to the head and friction on the face.The inside of the Impact Cushion is made of a 16".times.16".times.1.1/8" thick layer of prime virgin polyurethane laminated to crosslink a 16".times.16".times.1.1/4" thick layer polyethylene (total thickness is 2.3/8"). The layers of polyurethane and polyethylene combine to provide a dynamic cushioning effect that absorbs impact. The outside is covered by 18 oz/sq.yd. heavy duty vinyl reinforced with 22.times.22 psi 1000 denier nylon woven fabric; anti bacterial and anti fungal.

Abstract: An adjustable fitted cover for household items comprising a sheet of pliable material further comprising a bag-like structure with an opening. The opening has a continuous edge which is folded and stitched to form a channel along the edge of the opening. A closure, such as a drawstring or elastic ribbon, is enclosed within the channel for securably adjusting said cover on the household item. The material used may be of various colors, patterns, and textures so as to complement any decor. Additionally, the cover may be dimensioned and configured to accommodate various sizes and types of household items, including but not limited to frames, vases and doors. The cover may also employ a hook and loop fastener system to allow the use of interchangeable displays. Furthermore, assorted sizes and shapes of covers may be grouped together for use as a coordinating kit.

Abstract: An article of composite design for attachment to another fabric article, comprising an underlying layer of twill on one side of which an ink portion of the composite design has been screen printed and heat cured. The twill is cut into a desired shape so that the twill and the ink portion form the composite design, the portion of the twill without ink printed thereon forming a substantial portion of the composite design. Methods of making and attaching the composite design are disclosed.

Abstract: A stitch bonded fabric sheet (10) has a felt web (12) with hydrophobic layer (14) and a hydrophilic layer (16) stitch bonded with yarns (18) to create yarn faces (24 and 26) over the respective outer surfaces (20 and 22) of the felt web (12). Sheet (10) may be used as a fluid-retention fabric such as to replace the facing fabric and felt layer in an incontinent pad.

Abstract: Decorative products made using motion picture film and a process for making the products is provided. The decorative products include a room divider, a window covering, a wall hanging, and a lamp shade. The products are comprised of a plurality of strips of motion picture film arranged in a pattern and permanently attached together. The products are made by a process that comprises the steps of cutting a plurality of strips from motion picture film, laying the strips out to form a predetermined pattern, and permanently attaching the strips together in the predetermined pattern. The process may also include the steps of applying a protective coating to the strips, and fastening the strips to a mounting device suitable for mounting the strips to a ceiling, wall, or lamp.

Abstract: A method of making a reinforced insulating panel which includes the steps of covering insulating material, such as urethane foam of a regular size with glass fiber textiles, quilting the insulating material and the glass fiber textiles together so as to produce an integral middle member, covering the inner covering of the glass fiber of the middle member with an outer covering of the glass fiber and impregnating the covered member with a thermosetting resin and hardening the impregnated member. The glass fiber reinforced panel produced has excellent fire retardant and water repelling properties, has improved compressive strength and does not deform or delaminate easily.

Abstract: An element made of a reinforced low density heat protective material including an elastomer and/or a silicon resin matrix loaded with organic and/or inorganic components, wherein the reinforcement is formed of glass or ceramic thread sections or the like or organic materials fitted in the mass of the matrix along directions approximately orthogonal to at least one of the faces of the element and being flush, at least at one of their extremities, with at least one of the faces. The method for obtaining this element, includes, after molding to the general dimensions and shapes of the element with the aid of a loaded silicon matrix, placing the thread sections by stitching.

Abstract: The strength of composite patches is improved over conventional bolted or bonded patches by including Z-pins in the patch/parent structure interface to provide a mechanical link with small stress concentration between the patch and the parent structure. In some cases, we achieve a stronger repair removing the pins to leave holes that fill with resin from the patch during the curing or bonding operation.

Abstract: A method and a pre-form for strengthening a substrate structural member. Layers are applied to a surface of a substrate where the layers include dry fibre reinforcement materials. A reduced pressure is then applied to the layers and a curable resin is introduced to the layers such that the resin is drawn therethrough until the interstices therein are substantially filled with the resin. The resin is then cured. The layers are preferably woven fabric and may include resin distribution layers of relatively low weave density and high permeability and reinforcement layers of higher weave density and lower permeability. The layers may be provided as a pre-form.

Abstract: An improved stitchbonded nonwoven fabric having repeating patterns of stitches in a fibrous layer is prepared with a stitching thread that consists essentially of fiber of partially molecularly oriented synthetic organic polymer. The fabric can be stretched, shrunken, and/or heat set and is particularly suited for thermoforming operations.

Abstract: Rigidifiable composites are formed by stitching a reinforced B-stage resin sheet stock to form a three-dimensional preform. The preform is subsequently rigidified by initiating final cure of the resin. Molded articles, inflatable and other structures, such as, tank, tunnel and sewer liners are some of the typical structures which can be formed by the methods of the invention. Control of thread count, thread tension and thread spacing can be used to consolidate multi-ply or layered preforms, which, upon cure, can have up to 90% of the load carrying capacity of compression molded fiber reinforced articles.

Abstract: A heat insulating blanket with insulating media fastened at top and bottom of the blanket. The method for making the heat reflecting blanket comprises the steps of providing a first moisture-impervious outer layer having top and bottom edges, providing a second moisture-impervious outer layer having top and bottom edges, arranging at least one layer of insulating material between the first and second outer layers and in a confronting relationship therewith, folding the first and second outer layers with the insulating material therebetween into hems at the top and bottom edges, and securing the hems to form a heat insulating blanket with insulating media fastened at top and bottom. In another aspect of the invention, a heat insulating blanket with insulating media fastened at top and bottom is also described.

Abstract: I improve the impact shock resistance of bonds between composite elements by including Z-pin reinforcement. I prepare stubbled composite structure by using peel plys over the appropriate surface of the composite during pin insertion using conventional processes. I then use the stubbled composite structure with padups, as necessary, to produce the Z-pin reinforced joint or bond between composite elements using any of adhesive bonding, cocuring, or thermoplastic welding.

Abstract: An improved quilt comprising a first, second and third layer of material or fill providing a quilt having superior insulating capabilities and, thus, providing superior warmth to the user. These layers are comprised of at least one layer of fur or simulated fur disposed directly adjacent to a fill layer. Further, the quilt generally, but not necessarily, has a repeating pattern on the third layer of material disposed directly adjacent to the other side of said fill layer. The invention may be used, for example, as bedwear or throw as well as a lap robe.

Abstract: An article of manufacture illustrated in the form of an impeller having a rotor extending in radial directions from a central axis to an outer periphery and a plurality of vanes unitary with the rotor and extending from the rotor in axial directions essentially parallel to the central axis, each vane having a length along an axial direction, is constructed of a structural composite including a plurality of layers of reinforcing fibers in a matrix of synthetic polymeric material, each layer extending essentially parallel to the radial directions, the layers being juxtaposed with one another along the axial direction, the reinforcing fibers of each layer being woven in a pattern essentially perpendicular to the central axis, and further reinforcing fibers extending in the axial directions and stitched through the juxtaposed layers, the further reinforcing fibers extending within each vane, along the length of each vane, essentially parallel to the length of the vanes.

Abstract: A stitch-bonded fabric suitable for use as an airbag.

Abstract: The present invention provides a protective material comprising a base layer comprising cut resistant yarn, an intermediate layer comprising natural fiber and an outer layer comprising a flexible, elastomeric material impervious to liquid. The intermediate layer is bonded to the elastomeric material, while the cut resistant yarn in the base layer remains substantially free of encapsulation by the elastomeric material. The intermediate layer is joined to said base layer at one or more locations, preferably by selective strike through of limited amounts of the elastomeric material to encapsulate yarn in the base layer.

Abstract: An improved perming mat for use with hair care solutions is disclosed. Interposed between adhered, absorbent, coextensive, layered expanses of hair-care-solution-inert and hypoallergenic materials are spaced, small gauge, malleable wire stiffeners, each covered with an inert and hypoallergenic material. The extended-life, shape-retentive layered structure is non-reactive with the corrosive agents found in hair care solutions, and is non-irritating of the scalp. In a proposed modification, the coverings of the wire stiffeners are visibly colored coded to provide use indicia.

Abstract: A corrugator fabric comprising a first basecloth having a first staple fiber layer secured to the lower face thereof and a second staple fiber layer secured to the upper face thereof, a second basecloth having a lower face secured to the second staple fiber layer and optionally the first basecloth, a third staple fiber layer secured to the upper face of the second basecloth, a jointing body to form a seam for said fabric and a seam flap including at least one basecloth covering said jointing body.

Abstract: A simplified assembly for a multi-colored emblem that includes a non-woven base layer which outlines the emblem. The non-woven base layer extends beyond the embroidered fabric layer and provides an emblem with a non-fraying border.

Abstract: An improved flexible blanket includes a nickel-based alloy foil layer brazed to a nickel-based alloy fabric layer. The fabric layer is stitched to an underlying ceramic insulation layer.

Abstract: Thermoregulatory apparel includes garments, for close-fitting skin-contacting wear having, in preferred embodiments, a base fabric of Coolmax.sup.cm high moisture evaporation fabric having one or more insulating panels of Thermax.sup.cm or Thermastat.sup.cm hollow core fiber fabric having moisture wicking capability and applied to the inner side of the garment for skin contact at selected areas of the body where muscle protection is desired. The insulating panels maintain body heat in the protected muscles while evaporative cooling is encouraged by wicking of perspiration away from the body for evaporation from the outer Coolmax.sup.cm fabric. Alternative fabric choices and various garment combinations may be utilized.

Abstract: The fire retarding fluid mat is formed of two layers of material sealed around the edges. At least one layer intended for exposure to burning materials is a fire layer of semiporous material which is covered on the outer surface by a semiporous coating. The second or container layer is composed of a semiporous or nonporous material. The two layers are seamed together at joints intermediate the edges to prevent a ballooning effect when the mat is filled with a fluid such as water. When burning material contacts the semiporous coating fluid is released by capillary action. Once the fire is extinguished the semiporous coating reseals to retain the fluid.

Abstract: This invention provides a reinforcing woven fabric using as weaving threads flat and substantially nontwisted multifilaments of reinforcing fiber having less than 0.5 wt. % of sizing agent provided thereto and a binding property of 400-800 mm in hook drop value, and a method and an apparatus for manufacturing a reinforcing woven fabric by weaving the multifilaments of reinforcing fiber as warps and wefts. A reinforcing woven fabric having a small thickness and an extremely high covering factor and capable of indicating a high strength can be obtained at a low cost as a substrate for reinforcing composite materials.

Abstract: A tubular liner, for lining the inner wall of a pipe, comprises a plurality of composite liner tubes, each liner type contains an inner layer of a resin-absorbable sheet and an outer layer of hermetic plastic film. The composite liner tubes are joined by spirally stitched abutting ends. In an embodiment, the inner resin-absorbable sheets are joined. An adhesive can be applied to the inner and outer walls of the resin-absorbable sheet along the stitched spiral seam.

Abstract: A towel for securely wrapping about the body of wearer is adjustably fastened using a fastener connected at one side edge of the towel which fastener can be selectively held in a corresponding opening or loop at the opposite side edge of the towel. Another embodiment in which a pair of cotton ties are used to adjustably fasten the towel is also provided.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing a costume having semi-rigid costume components, and the costume itself. The semi-rigid costume components are capable of being sewn to fabric to form an integrated costume. An embodiment is shown in which the costume includes a semi-rigid muscular torso suitable for a superhero chestpiece. The sewn rigid component is formed from fusing a layer of fabric to a layer of foam and the resulting laminate is vacuum molded into a three-dimensional shape.

Abstract: The invention is a wound dressing prepared from alginate fibers which have good structural integrity, whereby layers are firmly joined together, e.g. by stitching or calendering at a plurality of points to produce a composite fabric.

Abstract: An air bag has, at the rear end thereof, an opening for introducing an inflator or gas supplied from the inflator. At least a part of the air bag is made of an air permeable cloth. The air permeable cloth is constituted by a woven fabric. Warps and wefts of the woven fabric are bound with a resin.

Abstract: In this cover structure, the reinforcing is formed by strips (1) or wires which are spaced from one another, of a material which is capable of providing resistance to the passage of a sharp object, each strip or wire having a meandering configuration formed by curved patterns and/or by patterns comprising regularly repeated rectilinear segments (2, 3), similar patterns of the various strips or wires being disposed in a manner such that they are juxtaposed or fit into one another in corresponding positions, such that each strip or wire is spaced from the adjacent strips or wires with a spacing such that a cutting object driven along a rectilinear path will, of necessity, encounter a strip or a wire in every direction on its path. See FIG. 1A.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved loop portion of a hook and loop fastening system. The loop portion is a two-layer composite including a compressively resilient backing material and a layer of fibrous loop material. The loop material is placed adjacent the bottom surface of the backing material and then a plurality of the loop fibers are needled or stitched through the backing material to form a plurality of loops which project above the top surface of the backing material. Due to the resilient nature of the backing material, when a hook member is brought into engagement with the loop material, the backing material compresses thereby exposing a greater portion of the individual loops for engagement with the hooks. Once the hooks have been engaged, the backing material expands back to make the exposed portion of the loops smaller.

Abstract: In the process of defining quilted fabric, non-stretchable, stretchable and interior layers of materials are wound on separate rollers. Then the layers are positively fed from the rollers to a bi-directional acting sewing assembly wherein the non-stretchable layer is provided with zero elongation and the stretchable layer is provided with 25 to 300 percent stretch. Next, the arranged layers are sewn in sets of sinusoidal-like seam patterns. Finally the stretched layer is permitted to relax to a natural state wherein a series of puffs are formed in rows across the layer normal to stretch direction of the stretchable layer. Result: columns of puffs of even numbered rows are aligned with each other but are laterally offset with respect to puffs of odd numbered rows by a constant amount.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tube and cable restraint comprising: a strip of flexible material having a generally elongated rectangular loop-section adapted to form a loop about the tube with an attachment means near the first end of the loop-section adapted to secure (e.g., adhere) the strip to a surgical drape and a refastenable loop forming means adapted to secure (e.g., adhere) the second end of the loop-section to the first end thereby forming a loop around the tube or cable. In another embodiment, the restraint is adapted to secure a tubular drape around a projecting object such as a microscope eyepiece.