Resilient three-dimensionally shaped fiber networks with improved comfort and aesthetic properties, improved method of making same and articles containing same
US6306483A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 19, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 23, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 19, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24661
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A three-dimensionally shaped fiber network structure having both resiliency and improved softness and aesthetic properties is composed of a deformed textile fabric formed from at least one monofilament and at least one multifilament yarn and having a plurality of deformations formed as a two-dimensional array in a base region of the deformed textile fabric. The deformed textile fabric is preferably a knitted or a woven fabric. The network structure is made by forming a deformable fabric from the monofilament and the multifilament yarn and then subjecting the deformable fabric to an area-enlarging deformation process, e.g., a thermomechanical process, to produce the deformed textile fabric having the deformations formed in a base region thereof. The three-dimensional network structures may be used in a variety of articles, including cushioning materials, impact-absorbing materials, and load-bearing materials.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.