Abstract: A textile material is provided, the appearance of which can be changed by stretching a whole or a part of the material in one or more pre-determined directions. The textile material is formed using a base fabric onto which one or more coating layers (e.g. metallic coating) are applied. The coated fabric is then stretched in a substantially transverse direction to the fabric and then in a substantially longitudinal direction to the fabric.

Abstract: The present invention provides an impact resistant sheet material that helps provide exterior walls of a building with resistance to impacts so that the building structure can meet building standards, such as the Miami-Dade County Large Missile Impact Test, for resisting impacts in high wind areas. In one embodiment, sheet material comprises an impact resistant layer that attached to fibrous substrate. The impact resistant layer provides impact resistance to the sheet material so that a wall structure employing the sheet material is able to successfully withstand an impact from a projectile comprising a 9 pound, 7 foot two-by-four (“2×4”) traveling at a speed of at least 34 miles per hour. The impact resistant sheet material may comprise a moisture vapor permeable, water-impermeable barrier layer having a hydrohead of at least 55 cm and a moisture vapor transmission rate of at least 35 g/m2/day. Such a sheet material is particularly useful in barrier applications, such as a house wrap.

Abstract: A fiber is obtainable from or comprises an ethylene/?-olefin interpolymer characterized by an elastic recovery, Re, in percent at 300 percent strain and (1) cycle and a density, d, in grams/cubic centimeter, wherein the elastic recovery and the density satisfy the following relationship: Re>1481?1629(d). Such interpolymer can also be characterized by other properties. The fibers made therefrom have a relatively high elastic recovery and a relatively low coefficient of friction. The fibers can be cross-linked, if desired. Woven or non-woven fabrics can be made from such fibers.

Abstract: Fabric structures having two connection segments and an expansion segment between the two connection segments are provided. The fabric structure includes ground yarns that form a sheath, binder yarns, elongation yarns surrounded by the sheath, and lateral yarns. In the expansion segment, at least some of the lateral yarns are interwoven with the elongation yarns to connect the elongation yarns laterally with the sheath. Heat treatment of the expansion segment shrinks the length of the elongation yarns during manufacture. The sheath does not substantially shrink from the heat treatment relative to the elongation yarns and gathers together in an accordion-like arrangement. A tensile load applied to the fabric structure stretches the elongation yarns and unfolds the gathered sheath. The high strength sheath supports the tensile load when completely unfolded, while the elongation yarns absorbs energy as the fabric structure stretches or elongates.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to washable wool stretch or elastic textile articles which are dimensionally stable. Preferably, the articles are characterized in that they have not been subjected to temperatures greater than 1600 C. The disclosure is also directed to a method to make dimensionally stable wool stretch articles characterized by the absence of a traditional heat-setting step.

Abstract: The invention provides a functional stretch laminate composite puckered fabric which is robust, laundry-durable and adaptable for securing about any three dimensional body, and a method for forming such puckered fabric. The functional stretch laminate fabric is provided with at least one functional element which can conduct electricity, conduct light, provide electromagnetic fields or provide shielding from electromagnetic fields. Generally, the functional stretch laminate fabric is sufficiently robust for Incorporation into garments and for applications in so-called wearable electronics.

Abstract: A core spun yarn comprising a bi-component polyester filament and an elastomeric fiber. The polyester filament has a denier from about 20 to about 150 and the elastomeric fiber has a denier from 20 to 140. The polyester filament is about 2 weight percent to about 60 weight percent, based on total weight of the yarn and the elastomeric fiber is from about 1 percent to about 40 percent, based on total weight of the yarn. The elastomeric fiber may have higher draft than the bi-component polyester fiber. The polyester filament comprises poly (trimethylene terephthalate) and at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of poly (ethylene terephthalate) and poly (tetramethylene terephthalate) and said elastomeric fiber is spandex. The yarn may include a sheath of at least one staple fiber. The disclosure also includes a fabric of the bi-component polyester filament and an elastomeric fiber.

Abstract: A kit for application of self-tanning preparations includes a self-tanning composition and an application glove for applying the composition to the skin which is constructed from fabric including microfibers of 1 denier or less. The inner surface of the glove has a liner of an impermeable flexible material adhered thereto. The microfiber fabric can be knit or woven, and can be cellulosic fiber, polyester or other synthetic fiber, or a combination of mechanical or intimate blends. In a preferred embodiment, the microfiber fabric is 85% polyester and 15% spandex, with the technical front including polyester microfiber yarn of 1 denier or less. The technical front of the fabric forms the application surface of the glove. The kit can include a cleansing/exfoliating composition, at least one disposable plastic glove for handling the application glove after use, a disposable tray for receiving the glove after use and a moisturizing preparation for the skin.

Abstract: A stretchable fabric comprising NYCO fabric with about 2 to about 4 wt. % elastic, such as an elastane as LYCRA®, is disclosed. The stretchable fabric of the invention exhibits about 20 to about 50% fabric stretch, and is suitable for application in combat uniforms where mobility and comfort are desirable. The stretchable fabric maintains or exceeds substantially all military uniform standard requirements and exhibits characteristics such as breaking strength, tear resistance, air permeability and abrasion resistance similar to that of NYCO fabric. Also disclosed is a garment manufactured from the stretchable fabric, as well as methods for manufacturing, dying and finishing the stretchable fabric.

Abstract: A stitchbonded fabric has a regionally segmented base layer in which one or more physical properties in at least one region is substantially different from those of another region. Typical physical properties that can differ among substrate regions include density, basis weight, chemical composition, thickness, porosity, permeability, elongation, elasticity, tensile strength, barrier properties, dyeability, abrasion resistance, and texture. The stitchbonded fabric thus has an improved combination of properties. In one aspect the base layer is discontinuous such that at least one region is devoid of all substrate material. The base layer is stitched continuously over its full extent such that all regions including open areas devoid of substrate material are stitched. The stitchbonded fabric with a discontinuous base layer advantageously can provide enhanced stretch capability to the overall fabric, especially in the cross direction and is particularly useful for stretchable skirts of mattress covers.

Abstract: Novel aqueous polyurethane dispersions and adhesive films formed therefrom are provided. The aqueous polyurethane dispersions are provided in solvent-free systems of a prepolymer comprising at least one polyether or polyester polyol, a mixture of MDI isomers, and a diol. The adhesive films from such dispersions can be heat-activated for bonding, lamination, and adhesion of textile fabrics, including stretch fabrics.

Abstract: Enhanced wearing comfort and a free-size feature of a hat may be achieved, without deteriorating exterior aesthetical features, when the hat includes a crown portion for being worn on a head of a wearer and an elastic brim formed by a plurality of fabric panels and combined to the crown portion, wherein the elastic brim includes a first fabric panel that is non-elastic and disposed as a most exterior panel among the plurality of fabric panels, a second fabric panel that is elastic and disposed as a most interior panel among the plurality of fabric panels, and sewing stitches combining the first and second fabric panels by sewing them along a circumferential direction in an outer portion of the elastic brim.

Abstract: Provided is an electrically conductive elastic composite yarn having an elastic member that is surrounded by at least one conductive covering filament. The conductive covering filament has a length that is greater than the drafted length of the elastic member such that substantially all of an elongating stress imposed on the composite yarn is carried by the elastic member. The elastic composite yarn may further include an optional stress-bearing member surrounding the elastic member and the conductive covering filament.

Abstract: The present invention relates to disposable, personal cleansing articles useful for cleansing the skin or hair. These articles are used by the consumer by wetting the dry article with water and then rubbing the article against the skin or hair. The article comprises a water insoluble substrate with an elastomeric component and having a cleansing surface and a lathering surfactant releasably associated with the substrate. Preferably, the articles of the present invention further comprise a conditioning component.

Abstract: A composite sheet that comprises an elastically stretchable layer and an inelastically stretchable layer formed with inelastically stretchable continuous fibers bonded to at least one surface of the elastically stretchable layer intermittently in one direction. The continuous fibers are oriented substantially in one direction thereof so that the composite sheet may present a ratio S1/S2 of 3.0 or higher where S1 represents a tensile strength in this one direction and S2 represents a tensile strength in the direction orthogonal to this one direction.

Abstract: A form-fitting cover has a top panel that has an elastic stretch in a least one linear direction in the range of 25 to 150% and a skirt attached to and depending from the periphery of the top panel. The skirt has an upper edge that has an elastic stretch at least equal to the elastic stretch of the periphery of the top panel. The skirt further has of an elastic or inelastic stretch that is at least as large as the elastic stretch of the periphery of the top panel.

Abstract: Bi-directional and multi-axial fabrics, fabric composites, ballistically resistant assemblies thereof, and the methods by which they are made. The fabrics are comprised of sets of strong, substantially parallel, unidirectional yarns lying in parallel planes, one above the other, with the direction of the yarns in a given plane rotated at an angle to the direction of the yarns in adjacent planes; and one or more sets of yarns having lower strength and higher elongation interleaved with the strong yarns. The fabrics of the invention provide superior ballistic effectiveness compared to ordinary woven and knitted fabrics but retain the ease of manufacture on conventional looms and knitting machines.

Abstract: Woven fabrics made from non-stretch yarns yet having high levels of stretch and recovery are described. The fabrics include at least about 50% of a synthetic fiber component, and are woven such that the warp and filling are approximately balanced by weight before warp contraction, with about 50% warp density or less. The fabrics are exposed to a cumulative dynamic tension in the warp direction of at least about 250 min-lb/linear ft, and are then finished to about 70-80% of their reed width at a temperature greater than or equal to the heat set temperature for the synthetic fiber component. The fabrics may also be exposed to a face finishing process and/or a fluid treatment process.

Abstract: An elastic fabric made of spandex and at least one fiber, wherein the spandex has a volume of 0.1 to 5.0% of the elastic fabric volume. The at least one fiber is composed of cotton, polyester and aramid, which has a volume of 99.0 to 95.0% of the elastic fabric. When the spandex, cotton, polyester and aramid are combined together according to the proportion, an elastic thread is extracted from spandex, cotton, polyester and aramid to be woven into the elastic fabric.

Abstract: A multi-layered woven side air curtain has pre-configured air holding cavities and a polymeric film laminated thereto. An adhesive polyether polyurethane or polyester polyurethane prime coat layer is first coated onto a textile substrate, and then a polymeric film, such as polyamide, polyolefin, or polyurethane is laminated thereto. The textile substrate may be woven of nylon, polyester, or other synthetic fibers. According to an alternative embodiment, a multi-layered composite film product is disclosed that can be used as a film laminate without the need for a prime coat adhesive layer being first applied to the textile substrate. In such a case, the adhesive prime coat is applied to the textile substrate in a single step via the film laminate itself. The side air curtain can be pre-configured or prefabricated to numerous varied designs and shapes prior to coating.

Abstract: This invention provides facing materials for cementitious boards such as those including Portland cement or gypsum cores. The preferred facing material includes, in a first embodiment, a facing layer having an areal weight of about 300 grams/M2, and an air permeability rating of no greater than about 300 CFM/ft2 (FG 436-910 test method). The facing layer reduces the penetration of a slurry of cementitious material during the manufacture of a cementitious board, while permitting the water vapor from the slurry to pass therethrough. The facing materials of this invention can be designed to substantially eliminate the fouling of rolls used in continuous processing of such boards without the use, or with greatly reduced use, of costly viscosity control agents in the slurry.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to substrates that exhibit useful, auto adaptable surface energy properties that depend on the environment of the substrate. Such surface energy properties provide relatively high advancing and receding contact angles for liquids when in contact with the target substrate surface. The substrates exhibit low surface energy quantities of at most about 20 millijoules per square meter (mJ/m2) at a temperature of about 25 degrees C. and a surface energy greater than about 20 mJ/m2 at, or with exposure to, a temperature of about 40 degrees C. More specifically, encompassed within the present invention are textile substrates having this highly desirable unique surface energy modification property and which exhibit wash durable oil and water repellency and stain release features. Novel compositions and formulations that impart such surface energy modifications to substrates are also encompassed within this invention, as well as methods for producing such treated substrates.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an elastic composite material having an elastic layer having a first side and a second side; at least one gatherable layer bonded to at least one of the first side and second side of the elastic layer; and a fibrous material entangled and intertwined with both the elastic layer and the gatherable layer. The resulting elastic composite provides a stretchable material which can conform to surfaces and has desirable properties of the fibrous material entangle and intertwined with both the elastic layer and the gatherable layer and does not suffer from the loss of the fibrous material from the stretchable substrate. The composite is usable in as bandages, durable wipes, durable mops and personal care products, such as diapers and feminine napkins. Also disclosed is a method for making the composite.

Abstract: A woven fabric structure for outdoor furniture use is provided. The woven fabric structure is a blended fabric containing a coated multifilament yarn and an elastomeric yarn that is resistant to water, ultraviolet, heat degradation or other significant outdoor exposure. The elastomeric yarn is provided in the fill direction and the coated multifilament yarn is provided in the warp direction. Additionally, the coated multifilament yarn can be combined with a yarn such as spun acrylic, polyester, nylon yarn, texturized filament yarns; or other uncoated filament yarns.

Abstract: A multi-layered woven side air curtain has pre-configured air holding cavities and a polymeric film laminated thereto. An adhesive polyether polyurethane or polyester polyurethane prime coat layer is first coated onto a textile substrate, and then a polymeric film, such as polyamide, polyolefin, or polyurethane is laminated thereto. The textile substrate may be woven of nylon, polyester, or other synthetic fibers. According to an alternative embodiment, a multi-layered composite film product can be used as a film laminate without the need for a prime coat adhesive layer being first applied to the textile substrate. In such a case, the adhesive prime coat is applied to the textile substrate in a single step via the film laminate itself. The side air curtain can be pre-configured or prefabricated to numerous varied designs and shapes prior to coating.

Abstract: Electrostatic dissipating fabrics incorporating spun yarns which include conductive staple fiber constituents incorporated within the spun yarns. The fabrics may be of either a woven or knit construction. The conductive fiber constituents are dispersed at an effective concentration to establish a network of charge carrying junctions within and between the individual yarns. The large number of junctions between the yarns facilitates the dissipation of static electricity between regions of a garment formed by the yarns. In particular, the fabric retains a high degree of conductivity across seams within the garment even after multiple washings.

Abstract: The invention is directed to coating a plurality of polyurethane films onto a stretchable knit fabric substrate and heat sealing such substrates together to yield an air curtain or air bag having improved air-holding properties.

Abstract: Upholstery stretch slipcovers are constructed from fabric having sufficient elastic recovery force so that the covers require no additional fabric to hold the slipcovers in place or to maintain a substantial absence of wrinkles in the slipcovers. The stretch slipcovers are particularly useful for chairs having separate back and seat cushions.

Abstract: A woven textile fabric is disclosed which is formed of synthetic yarns of at least two different deniers to which a solid polymeric film is laminated. An adhesive polymeric coating is provided for adhering the solid polymeric film to the woven textile fabric. The combination of yarns of different deniers provides a superior adhesion surface for the polymeric film. The yarns and the polymeric coating are preselected respectively in deniers and thicknesses so as to render the fabric substantially impermeable to fluid under pressure, while maintaining superb packageability and anti-blocking properties for use in vehicle occupant restraint systems. An air bag incorporating the woven textile fabric of the invention and having two outer surfaces and pre-configured air holding cavities woven therein to which a solid polymeric film is bonded for receiving and containing fluid under pressure for use in a vehicle air restraint system is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composite backing suitable for use in the manufacturing of carpeting, particularly tufted synthetic turf carpeting, or any other fabric product where dimensional stability in the presence of thermal or moisture gradients is desirable. The composite backing comprises reinforcement strands integrated into a woven backing fabric. The reinforcement strands may be laid in an open network structure needlepunched into a woven backing or may also be integrated into the woven backing by directly weaving the reinforcement strands into the woven backing as it is being fabricated. A synthetic turf product may be constructed by tufting the composite backing.

Abstract: An elastically stretchable composite sheet includes an elastically stretchable first web and an inelastically stretchable second web of thermoplastic synthetic resin fiber which is intermittently bonded to the first web in a y-direction. Component fiber of the second web has its cress-section cut in a direction orthogonal to the y-direction defined by a width w and a height h dimensioned to be at a ratio h/w less than 0.5. The composite sheet having such a structure improve its flexibility.

Abstract: A composite elastic material useful for prosthetic applications is constituted of at least one cured silicone elastomer layer containing silicone oil and hollow microspheres dispersed throughout the elastomer layer. An elasticized fabric layer may be intimately bonded to one side of the silicone elastomer layer and the composite elastic material may be incorporated in various prosthetic appliances, including suction liners and sealing sleeves. When used in a suction liner, the composite elastic material may be molded to provide a thicker anterior wall and a thinner posterior wall with a smooth transition between the anterior and posterior walls. The composite elastic material covered with an elasticized fabric may be used as a sealing sleeve between a prosthetic device and a residual limb. The composite elastic material may contain one or more skin treating agents blended into the silicone elastomer.

Abstract: A method of making a fabric composite capable to assuming a desired shape including the steps of forming an interlining fabric (10) containing elastic yarn (15) running longitudinally of the fabric, varying the density of yarn across the width of the interlining to control the longitudinal extensibility across the width, and attaching the interlining to a fabric backing material (12).

Abstract: Bi-directional and multi-axial fabrics, fabric composites, ballistically resistant assemblies thereof, and the methods by which they are made. The fabrics are comprised of sets of strong, substantially parallel, unidirectional yarns lying in parallel planes, one above the other, with the direction of the yarns in a given plane rotated at an angle to the direction of the yarns in adjacent planes; and one or more sets of yarns having lower strength and higher elongation interleaved with the strong yarns.

Abstract: Segmented polyurethane/ureas useful in the production of spandex are produced by chain extending an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer in the presence of a solvent. The isocyanate-terminated prepolymer is formed by reacting a stoichiometric excess of an isocyanate with an isocyanate-reactive component that includes more than 50 equivalent percent of a high molecular weight polyoxyalkylene diol having an unsaturation level no greater than about 0.015 meq/g and up to about 50 equivalent percent of a polytetramethylene ether glycol.

Abstract: A process for improving the properties of knit fabrics containing bicomponent polyester fibers, by heat-setting the fabrics, while stretched cross-directionally, prior to dyeing, is provided.

Abstract: An air bag of the type utilized in a vehicle occupant restraint system has at least one panel of coated air bag fabric comprising a base fabric coated with a urethane coating material. The base fabric is woven in warp and fill directions from synthetic multifilament yarns. In at least one of the weave directions, the yarns comprise first yarns of a first yarn size and second yarns of a second yarn size, with the second yarn size being a lesser yarn size than the first yarn size. The first yarns and the second yarns are in predetermined positions in the base fabric to produce a crest and trough pattern on a surface thereof.

Abstract: A tactile feedback device includes an elastic body adapted to be worn by a user and a shape memory alloy connected to the elastic body. The application of power causes the shape memory alloy to assume a memory shape that produces tactile feedback to the user. The elastic body may include a woven elastic material and may be embodied in a wrist band. The shape memory alloy may be located in a recess of the elastic body, or may be interwoven in the elastic body.

Abstract: A biaxially extendible, breathable laminate having liquid barrier properties and low retractive force. The laminate includes a nonwoven web neck-stretched in a first direction to impart extendibility of the web in a second direction mutually perpendicular with the first direction, and a film that is extendible in the second direction. The film can be a breathable, microporous film, and can either be an inelastic film stretched to form rugosities in the second direction, or can be made of an extendible polymer that is extendible in the second direction. Using an appropriate elastomeric lamination and/or creping adhesive, the laminate is creped to produce extendibility in the first direction with some retractive force. The biaxial extendible laminate is particularly useful as an outer cover for diapers and other personal care products.

Abstract: An elasticity-processing method for wet suit fabric pieces is disclosed, by which a wet suit fabric piece laminated with a knitted high-elastic cloth is pressed tightly with two sets of rubber squeeze rollers under different rotation speeds to cause an expansion effect on the fabric piece, separate and destroy the weave circle of the weave of the knitted cloth and produce an elasticity to the whole piece of the fabric. In comparison with the conventional low-elastic and high-modulus wet suit fabric pieces, the fabric pieces made with such a process has a high elasticity and low modulus, and is capable to improve the elasticity of wet suits in professional applications. The wet suits made of such fabric are more fitted, softer and more comfortable.

Abstract: A fabric particularly useful in the manufacture of occupant support structures is described. The fabric is desirably leno woven to have a high degree of openness and such that at least a plurality of the yarn intersections are stabilized from relative motion. The fabric includes elastomeric synthetic yarns in at least one fabric direction. At least some of the points of yarn intersection can be supplementally stabilized from relative motion, such as through the use of bicomponent yarns having a sheath which is melted to secure intersecting yarns together. The fabric is also resistant to ultraviolet irradiation so that it retains its physical properties after accelerated exposure to UV irradiation. The fabric provides good support and ventilation, and is suitable for use as a surface fabric in automotive and seating applications.

Abstract: This invention relates to novel airbag coating compositions and systems comprising pre-expanded or non-expandable microspheres that provide effective insulation for the target airbag fabric during exothermic inflation. The inventive airbag fabrics are either pre-calendered prior to application of this composition or are coated through a gap (floating) knife method with such heat-expandable microsphere-containing compositions. The coated airbag fabrics and cushions may then be heated to evaporate the solvent within the coating composition. The resultant fabric thus exhibits the presence of the microsphere constituents of the coating compositions both within the interstices between the individual yarns of the fabric and over the raised yarns of the fabric.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an elastic woven or knitted fabric that has an elastic yarn comprising an organic synthetic macromolecule disposed in at least part thereof, and has the following physical properties:

Abstract: A method of making a fabric composite capable to assuming a desired shape including the steps of forming an interlining fabric (10) containing elastic yarn (15) running longitudinally of the fabric, varying the density of yarn across the width of the interlining to control the longitudinal extensibility across the width, and attaching the interlining to a fabric backing material (12).

Abstract: Methods of manufacturing composite webs including a substrate with one or more reinforcing discrete polymeric regions located on or within the composite web are disclosed. Molten nonelastomeric thermoplastic material of the discrete polymeric region is forced against the substrate by a transfer roll. If the substrate is porous, fibrous, etc., a portion of the nonelastomeric thermoplastic composition may infiltrate the substrate and/or encapsulate fibers of the substrate. The composite webs also include elastomeric thermoplastic material in discrete polymeric regions on or within the composite web.

Abstract: A poly(lactic acid) fiber has a strength at 90° C. of equal to or more than 0.8 cN/dtex and exhibits significantly satisfactory mechanical properties at high temperatures as compared with conventional poly(lactic acid) fibers.

Abstract: A composition of material for manufacturing women's elastic free size winter shirts having an omasum inner-wall-like textile structure to render desired elasticity to a shirt.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a textile fabric. This fabric is particularly well suited for use as the outer shell fabric of a firefighter's garment. The fabric is a woven fabric of spun yarns and multi-filament yarns. The spun yarn includes a first staple being a polymer selected from the group consisting of PBI or PBO or melamine formaldehyde, and a second staple being an aramid polymer. The multi-filament yarn includes an aramid filament.

Abstract: A coating composition for fabrics includes wetted microspheres containing a phase change material dispersed throughout a polymer binder, a surfactant, a dispersant, an antifoam agent and a thickener. Preferred phase change materials include paraffinic hydrocarbons. The microspheres may be microencapsulated. To prepare the coating composition, microspheres containing phase change material are wetted ahd dispersed in a dispersion in a water solution containing a surfactant, a dispersant, an antifoam agent and a polymer mixture. The coating is then applied to a fabric. In an alternative embodiment, an extensible fabric is coated with an extensible binder containing microencapsulated phase change material to form an extensible, coated fabric. The coated fabric is optionally flocked. The coated fabrics are manufactured using transfer techniques.

Abstract: A multilayer printed wiring board includes a core member including a plurality of glass clothes impregnated with a resin. Each of the glass clothes is woven with glass yarns each of which includes a bundle of glass filaments. One or more buildup layers are laminated on one or each surface of the core member. The core member has an elastic modulus which is no less than 100 times that of the buildup layer at 240° C.