Forming belt for three-dimensional forming applications
US5466409A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 19, 1993 |
| Grant date | Nov 14, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 19, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
- CPC primaryD21F9/00
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for forming a layer structure, such as an airlaid fibrous web, include a supplying mechanism for providing a stream of particulate material, such as fibers. Also included is a substantially endless, foraminous forming belt which has an appointed outward surface and a minimum thickness of at least about 3/16 inch. A selected contour is formed into the outward surface of the belt at selected locations, and the contour is distributed along a lengthwise machine-direction of the forming belt. The forming belt is configured to flex along a thickness direction thereof, and to recoverably bend and substantially straighten when traveling along a selected belt path circuit. A conveying mechanism moves the forming belt past the supplying mechanism along a forming path section of the belt circuit which is substantially straight, and moves the forming belt along a return path section of the belt circuit which includes curved portions therein. A vacuum mechanism draws a flow of air through the thickness of the forming belt to lay the particulate material onto the forming belt to form a layer structure, such as a web, having a top surface and a belt-side surface thereon. Th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.