Fabric hydroenhancement method & equipment for improved efficiency
US6442810B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 3, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 25, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
- CPC primaryD04H18/04
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Improvements in hydroenhancement efficiency are obtained by operating a manifold in relative movement to fabric transported under the manifold so as to deliver a low energy to the fabric per pass in multiple passes on the fabric. This results in greater enhancement efficiency and reduction in wasted energy, and also improves fabric coverage and reduces fabric shrinkage. The low-energy-per-pass, multiple-pass approach can be implemented with improved hydroenhancing equipment of reduced equipment size and cost which simulate multiple passes on the fabric. In one embodiment, a jigging hydroenhancing equipment transports the fabric back and forth under a stationary manifold between a pair of unwind/windup reels to simulate multiple passes on the fabric. Other embodiments employ a manifold or manifold system that is reciprocated, oscillated, or rotated to simulate multiple passes on the fabric. Other variations for improving hydroenhancement are disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.