US3635785A - Stitched nonwoven fabric utilizing a foam layer and a fibrous layer - Google Patents

Stitched nonwoven fabric utilizing a foam layer and a fibrous layer Download PDF

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US3635785A
US3635785A US3755A US3635785DA US3635785A US 3635785 A US3635785 A US 3635785A US 3755 A US3755 A US 3755A US 3635785D A US3635785D A US 3635785DA US 3635785 A US3635785 A US 3635785A
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fabric
face
layer
rows
treated surface
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US3755A
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George H Hughes
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Beacon Manufacturing Co
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Beacon Manufacturing Co
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/022—Non-woven fabric
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B3/00—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form
    • B32B3/26—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form characterised by a particular shape of the outline of the cross-section of a continuous layer; characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids ; characterised by an apertured layer
    • B32B3/263—Layered products comprising a layer with external or internal discontinuities or unevennesses, or a layer of non-planar shape; Layered products comprising a layer having particular features of form characterised by a particular shape of the outline of the cross-section of a continuous layer; characterised by a layer with cavities or internal voids ; characterised by an apertured layer characterised by a layer having non-uniform thickness
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/08—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer the fibres or filaments of a layer being of different substances, e.g. conjugate fibres, mixture of different fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/18—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by features of a layer of foamed material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0246—Acrylic resin fibres
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    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
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    • B32B2262/0261—Polyamide fibres
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    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/02—Synthetic macromolecular fibres
    • B32B2262/0276—Polyester fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
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    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/06—Vegetal fibres
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/08—Animal fibres, e.g. hair, wool, silk
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2262/00—Composition or structural features of fibres which form a fibrous or filamentary layer or are present as additives
    • B32B2262/14—Mixture of at least two fibres made of different materials
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2266/00—Composition of foam
    • B32B2266/02—Organic
    • B32B2266/0214—Materials belonging to B32B27/00
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2266/00—Composition of foam
    • B32B2266/02—Organic
    • B32B2266/0214—Materials belonging to B32B27/00
    • B32B2266/0278—Polyurethane
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/50—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular mechanical properties
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2437/00—Clothing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2479/00—Furniture
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/02—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/06—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by structural features of a fibrous or filamentary layer characterised by a fibrous or filamentary layer mechanically connected, e.g. by needling to another layer, e.g. of fibres, of paper
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B5/00—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts
    • B32B5/22—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed
    • B32B5/24—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer
    • B32B5/245—Layered products characterised by the non- homogeneity or physical structure, i.e. comprising a fibrous, filamentary, particulate or foam layer; Layered products characterised by having a layer differing constitutionally or physically in different parts characterised by the presence of two or more layers which are next to each other and are fibrous, filamentary, formed of particles or foamed one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer next to it being a foam layer
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/23907—Pile or nap type surface or component
    • Y10T428/2395—Nap type surface
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24033—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including stitching and discrete fastener[s], coating or bond
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/249921—Web or sheet containing structurally defined element or component
    • Y10T428/249953—Composite having voids in a component [e.g., porous, cellular, etc.]
    • Y10T428/249962—Void-containing component has a continuous matrix of fibers only [e.g., porous paper, etc.]
    • Y10T428/249964—Fibers of defined composition

Definitions

  • ABSTRACT A stitched, multilayer, nonwoven fabric adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and characterized by providing different outer surface characteristics.
  • the fabric comprises a first layer of nonwoven textile fibers oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric and forming one outer B32) 7 face of the fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics, a 16 I50 62, 6 4 159.160; second layer of a compressible, resilient foam material su- 5/3 34 R perimposed on and contiguous vvith the first layer and form ing the other outer face of the fabric for providing foam characteristics, and elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating the superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the fibers of the first layer and for stitch-bonding together the superimposed layers and extending in the lengthwise direction of 161/62 x the fabric.
  • the stitched, nonwoven fabric may include outer 1 treatedsurfaces for providing desired surface finishes thereon.
  • a fabric comprising a first layer of a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers.
  • the fibers of the first layer are oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric to provide strength and stability to the fabric in the widthwise direction.
  • the first layer forms one outer face of the fabric.
  • the fabric further comprises a second layer of three-dimensional, compressible, resilient foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout the second layer to define a multiplicity of cells. The second layer is superimposed on and contiguous with the first layer and forms the other outer face of the fabric.
  • the fabric further comprises elongate, spacedapart rows of switches penetrating the superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the individual fibers of the first layer and for stitch-boning together the superimposed layers to form the stitched, nonwoven fabric.
  • the rows of stitches extend in thelengthwise direction throughout the length of the fabric.
  • the rows of stitches utilized in the stitched, nonwoven fabric of this invention are formed from at least two continuous yarns and have chain stitch loop components on one face of the fabric and interconnected diagonally extending and straight-line stitch components on the other face of the fabric.
  • the chain stitch loop components are formed from both of the yarns and the diagonally extending stitch components are formed from one of the yarns and the straight-line stitch components are formed from the other of the yarns.
  • the above novel stitched, nonwoven fabric is adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and may include desirable surface treatments on one or both faces thereof to adapt the same for such uses. While specific combinations of surface treatments are illustrated in the drawings and will be described specifically hereinafter, it is to be understood that this invention is intended to cover various surface treatments of the novel nonwoven fabric defined herein.
  • These surface treatments may include an outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer of nonwoven fibers.
  • This outer treated surface may comprise raised, napped fibers extending from the first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches on the one face of the fabric.
  • the fabric may also include an outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer of nonwoven fibers which is formed by the rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on the one face of the fabric and compressing the one face of the fabric along the rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong.
  • the portions of the face of the fabric between the rows of chain stitch loop portions are substantially uncompressed and define spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on the one face of the fabric.
  • the surface treatments may include an outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer of foam material.
  • This outer treated surface may comprise upstanding, flocked fibers secured to the foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches on the other face of the fabric.
  • this outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer of foam material may comprise upstanding,
  • the stitched, nonwoven fabric of this invention utilizes the inherent features and advantages of a first layer of nonwoven fibers oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric and forming one face of the fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics to the one face of the fabric and for providing strength and stability in the widthwise direction to the fabric.
  • the stitched fabric utilizes a second layer of compressible, resilient foam material which forms the other face of the fabric and provides improved hand, drapability, compressibility, resilience, washability, bulk and insulating qualities to the fabric and provides foam characteristics to the other face of the fabric.
  • the stitched, nonwoven fabric utilizes the advantages of a stitch construction which stitch-bonds together the individual fibers of the first layer and stitch-bonds together the two layers of the fabric to each other for forming an integrated, multilayer fabric. These stitches are disposed in the lengthwise direction of the fabric for providing strength and stability to the fabric in the lengthwise direction.
  • FIG. I is an enlarged, fragmentary, partially exploded, broken away, perspective view of the obverse side of the stitched, nonwoven fabric of this invention illustrating the fabric in the two basic stages of its construction;
  • FIG. 2 is an enlarged, fragmentary, partially exploded, broken away, perspective view of the reverse side of the stitched, nonwoven fabric of FIG. 1 illustrating the fabric in the two basic stages of its construction;
  • FIG. 3 is a reduced, perspective view with one corner turned up of the nonwoven fabric of FIGS. 1 and 2 having a particular surface treatment on both faces of the fabric;
  • FIG. 4 is a view, like FIG. 3, illustrating different surface treatments on the faces of the fabric
  • FIG. 5 is a view, like FIGS. 3 and 4, illustrating different surface treatments on the faces of the fabric.
  • FIG. 6 is a view, like FIGS. 3-5, illustrating yet further surface treatments on the faces of the fabric.
  • FIGS. I and 2 there is illustrated in FIGS. I and 2 the obverse and reverse sides of the stitched, nonwoven fabric constructed according to this invention and generally indicated by the reference numeral 10.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 are broken away and include generally exploded portions illustrating the two layers of the composite fabric and portions illustrating the obverse and reverse sides of the two layers of the composite fabric after the same has been stitch-bonded together.
  • the stitched, nonwoven fabric 10 comprises a first layer 11 comprising a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers which forms one face of the fabric 10 for providing textile fiber characteristics to the one face.
  • the individual fibers of the first layer 11 are oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric to provide strength and stability to the fabric in the widthwise direction.
  • the nonwoven fibers utilized in the first layer 11 may be any suitable synthetic fibers including viscose, acrylic, polyester and polyamide fibers, or natural fibers including cotton and wool, or other textile fibers, or blends thereof.
  • the stitched, nonwoven fabric 10 further includes a second layer 12 of three-dimensional, compressible, resilient cellular, resinous foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout to define a multiplicity of cells for providing strength and stability to the fabric 10 in random directions.
  • the foam material for this second layer 12 may be a polyurethane foam, an ester foam or any suitable type of foam material which provides the above-discussed desired characteristics in the fabric 10.
  • the second layer 12 of foam material is superimposed on and contiguous with the first layer 11 and forms the other outer face of the fabric for providing foam characteristics to the other outer face.
  • the composite nonwoven fabric 10 further includes elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating the superimposed layers 11 and 12 for stitch-bonding together the individual fibers of the first layer 11 and for stitch-bonding together the superimposed layers 11 and 12 to form a composite, integrated, multilayer fabric 10.
  • the rows of stitches 20 extend in the lengthwise direction throughout the length of the fabric for providing strength and stability to the fabric 10 in the lengthwise direction.
  • the rows of stitches 20 are preferably spaced-apart a distance less than the length of the individual fibers in the first layer 11 to insure the desired stitch-bonding of the fibers therein and to provide strength and stability to the fabric 10.
  • Each of the rows of stitches 20 are formed from two continuous yarns Yl and Y-2 and have chain stitch loop componcnts 21 on the obverse face of the fabric 10 and interconnected straight-line stitch components 22 and diagonally extending stitch components 23 on the reverse face of the fabric.
  • the stitch loop components 21 are formed from both of the yarns Y-l and Y-2 and the straight-line stitch components 22 are formed from one of the yarns Y-l only and the diagonally extending stitch components 23 are formed from the other of the yarns Y-2 only.
  • This arrangement of stitch components provides an interlocked stitch construction which will not rave] or dislocate itself from the stitched, nonwoven fabric 10.
  • the yarns Y-l and Y-2 utilized to form the rows of stitches 20 and stitch components 21, 22 and 23 may be of various natural or synthetic fibers or blends, but continuous filament synthetic yarns are advantageous to obtain relatively high strength and to prevent breakage in the manufacturing operation and to also give good tensile strength to the finished fabric.
  • the thus formed stitched, nonwoven fabric may include suitable outer treated surfaces on the outer faces of the fabric 10 for providing desired characteristics adapting the fabric 10 for use as bed coverings, garments and the like, As illustrated in FIG. 3, a first outer treated surface is provided on the one face of the fabric 10 formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers. This first outer treated surface comprises raised, napped fibers 30 extending from the first layer 11 and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches 20 and the chain stitch loop components 21 on the one face of the fabric. Additionally, a second outer treated surface is provided on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer 12 of foam material. This second outer treated surface comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 35 secured to the foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches 20 and the straight-line stitch components 22 and the diagonally extending stitch components 23 along with the foam material forming the second layer 12.
  • first treated surface comprised of raised, napped fibers 30 may be formed by any suitable napping machine which is commonly used in the textile industry.
  • second outer treated surface comprising raised, flocked fibers 35 may be formed by any conventional electrostatic flocking apparatus and may be secured to the foam surface by any suitable adhesive or the like.
  • the fabric 10 may include a first outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric 10 formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers.
  • This first outer treated surface is formed by the rows of stitches 20 comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 on the one face of the fabric for compressing the one face of the fabric along the rows to form corresponding depressed areas 40 therealong.
  • the portions of the face of the fabric between the rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 are substantially uncompressed and define spaced, parallel, raised ribs 41 so that a ribbed surface treatment with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on the one face of the fabric.
  • a second outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer 12 of foam material is provided.
  • This second outer treated surface is the same as the second outer treated surface on the fabric 10 of FIG. 3 and comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 35 secured to the foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows ofstitches on the other face of the fabric 10.
  • the fabric 10 includes a first outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers.
  • This first outer treated surface is the same as the first outer treated surface illustrated in FIG. 4 and is formed by the rows of stitches 20 comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 on the one face of the fabric for compressing the one face of the fabric along the rows to form corresponding depressed areas 40 therealong.
  • the portions of the face of the fabric between the rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 are substantially uncompressed and define spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 therebetween is provided on the one face of the fabric.
  • FIG. 5 further includes a second outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer 12 of foam material.
  • This second outer treated surface comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 45 secured to the foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
  • the particular flowered pattern illustrated in FIG. 5 is merely exemplary of a type of pattern which may be formed and it is to be understood that any desired patterned arrangement is within the scope of this invention. Patterned flocking may be accomplished in any conventional manner and such is well understood by those with ordinary skill in the textile art. Accordingly, further explanation herein is not deemed necessary.
  • the stitched, nonwoven fabric 10 therein includes a first outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers.
  • This first outer treated surface is the same as the first outer treated surface of the fabric of FIG. 3 and comprises raised, napped fibers 30 extending from the first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches 20 on the one face of the fabric.
  • the fabric 10 of FIG. 6 further includes a second outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer of foam material.
  • This second outer treated surface is of the same form as the second outer treated surface of the fabric 10 of FIG. 5 and comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 45 secured to the foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
  • this invention has provided a novel and improved stitched, nonwoven fabric adapted for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and which provides different outer surface characteristics and which utilizes the individual characteristics and features of the two layers used therein and a stitch construction for integrating the layers into a composite fabric.
  • This improved fabric utilizes various combinations of surface treatments for providing desired finishes on the fabric.
  • a first layer comprising a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers, said fibers of said first layer being oriented in the widthwise direction of said fabric to provide strength andstability to said fabric in the widthwise direction, said first layer forming one outer face of said fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics to said one outer face;
  • a second layer comprising three-dimensional, compressible
  • resilient foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout said second layer to define a multiplicity of cells for providing improved hand drapability, compressibility, resilience, washability; bulk and insulating qualities to said fabric and for providing strength to said fabric in random directions, said second layer being superimposed on and being contiguous with said first layer and forming the other outer face of said fabric for providing foam characteristics to said other outer face; and
  • each of said rows of stitches is formed from at least two continuous yarns and has chain stitch loop components on said one face of said fabric and interconnected diagonally extending and straight-line stitch components on said other face of said fabric and in which said chain stitch loop components are formed from both of said yarns and in which said diagonally extending stitch components are formed from one of said yarns and saidstraight-line stitch components are formed from the other of said yarns.
  • a nonwoven fabric as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric.
  • a nonwoven fabric as set forth in claim I, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and v defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric.
  • a nonwoven fabric as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
  • a nonwoven fabric as set forth in claim I, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
  • a nonwoven fabric as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam' material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
  • said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric,
  • said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
  • a nonwoven fabric as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.

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Abstract

A stitched, multilayer, nonwoven fabric adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and characterized by providing different outer surface characteristics. The fabric comprises a first layer of nonwoven textile fibers oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric and forming one outer face of the fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics, a second layer of a compressible, resilient foam material superimposed on and contiguous with the first layer and forming the other outer face of the fabric for providing foam characteristics, and elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating the superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the fibers of the first layer and for stitch-bonding together the superimposed layers and extending in the lengthwise direction of the fabric. The stitched, nonwoven fabric may include outer treated surfaces for providing desired surface finishes thereon.

Description

[ Jan. 18,1972
United States Patent Hughes 3,496,054 2/1970 Baigas,Jr............................. 3,405,674 10/1968 161/64X 161/50X 161/80X [54] STITCHED NONWOVEN FABRIC UTILIZING A FOAM LAYER AND A Coates et a1... FIBROUS LAYERv 3,395,065 7/1968 Owen, Sr.
[72] lnventor: George II. Hughes, Asheville, NC. Primary ExaminerPhilip Dier [73] Assignee:
Attorney- Parrott, Bell, Seltzer, Park & Gibson Beacon Manufacturing Company, Swannanoa,N.C.
ABSTRACT A stitched, multilayer, nonwoven fabric adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and characterized by providing different outer surface characteristics. The fabric comprises a first layer of nonwoven textile fibers oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric and forming one outer B32) 7 face of the fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics, a 16 I50 62, 6 4 159.160; second layer of a compressible, resilient foam material su- 5/3 34 R perimposed on and contiguous vvith the first layer and form ing the other outer face of the fabric for providing foam characteristics, and elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating the superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the fibers of the first layer and for stitch-bonding together the superimposed layers and extending in the lengthwise direction of 161/62 x the fabric. The stitched, nonwoven fabric may include outer 1 treatedsurfaces for providing desired surface finishes thereon.
[22] Filed: Jan. 19, 1970 [21] Appl. No.: 3,755
161/62, 161/64,161/159 [51] Int. [58] Field of [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,725,835 12/1955 Mather................................ 3,410,748 11/1968 Blue..........
3,329,552 7/1967 Hughes, 3,392,078 7/1968 161 50 9 Claims, 6 Drawing Figures PA'TENTED JAN: 8 1972 SHEET 1 0F 2 5 m0 mu H H E G R O E G ATTORNEYS PATENTEDJMMM. 3,635,785
SHKU 2 BF 2 INVENTOR. GEORGE H. HucaHas ATTORNEYS STITCIIED NONWOVEN FABRIC UTILIZING A FOAM LAYER AND A FIBIROUS LAYER This invention relates to a stitched, multilayer, nonwoven fabric.
It is the object of this invention to provide such a fabric which is particularly adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and which is characterized by providing different outer surface characteristics.
by this invention, it has been found that the above object may be accomplished by providing a fabric comprising a first layer of a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers. The fibers of the first layer are oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric to provide strength and stability to the fabric in the widthwise direction. The first layer forms one outer face of the fabric. The fabric further comprises a second layer of three-dimensional, compressible, resilient foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout the second layer to define a multiplicity of cells. The second layer is superimposed on and contiguous with the first layer and forms the other outer face of the fabric. The fabric further comprises elongate, spacedapart rows of switches penetrating the superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the individual fibers of the first layer and for stitch-boning together the superimposed layers to form the stitched, nonwoven fabric. The rows of stitches extend in thelengthwise direction throughout the length of the fabric.
Preferably, the rows of stitches utilized in the stitched, nonwoven fabric of this invention are formed from at least two continuous yarns and have chain stitch loop components on one face of the fabric and interconnected diagonally extending and straight-line stitch components on the other face of the fabric. The chain stitch loop components are formed from both of the yarns and the diagonally extending stitch components are formed from one of the yarns and the straight-line stitch components are formed from the other of the yarns. This type of stitch construction, in addition to providing added strength to the fabric, will provide an interlocked stitch construction which will not rave] or dislocate itself during use of the fabric for its intended purpose.
The above novel stitched, nonwoven fabric is adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and may include desirable surface treatments on one or both faces thereof to adapt the same for such uses. While specific combinations of surface treatments are illustrated in the drawings and will be described specifically hereinafter, it is to be understood that this invention is intended to cover various surface treatments of the novel nonwoven fabric defined herein.
These surface treatments may include an outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer of nonwoven fibers. This outer treated surface may comprise raised, napped fibers extending from the first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches on the one face of the fabric.
The fabric may also include an outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer of nonwoven fibers which is formed by the rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on the one face of the fabric and compressing the one face of the fabric along the rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong. The portions of the face of the fabric between the rows of chain stitch loop portions are substantially uncompressed and define spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on the one face of the fabric.
The surface treatments may include an outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer of foam material. This outer treated surface may comprise upstanding, flocked fibers secured to the foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches on the other face of the fabric. Alternatively, this outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer of foam material may comprise upstanding,
flocked fibers secured to the foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
Further, the above various outer treated surfaces on both faces of the fabric may be used alone or in different combinations, as will be more fully described below in connection with the various illustrations in the drawings.
It may be seen, from the above general description and from the more specific description to follow, that the stitched, nonwoven fabric of this invention utilizes the inherent features and advantages of a first layer of nonwoven fibers oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric and forming one face of the fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics to the one face of the fabric and for providing strength and stability in the widthwise direction to the fabric. Moreover, the stitched fabric utilizes a second layer of compressible, resilient foam material which forms the other face of the fabric and provides improved hand, drapability, compressibility, resilience, washability, bulk and insulating qualities to the fabric and provides foam characteristics to the other face of the fabric. Ad ditionally, the stitched, nonwoven fabric utilizes the advantages of a stitch construction which stitch-bonds together the individual fibers of the first layer and stitch-bonds together the two layers of the fabric to each other for forming an integrated, multilayer fabric. These stitches are disposed in the lengthwise direction of the fabric for providing strength and stability to the fabric in the lengthwise direction.
Some of the features and objects of this invention having been stated, other objects and features will appear as the description proceeds, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. I is an enlarged, fragmentary, partially exploded, broken away, perspective view of the obverse side of the stitched, nonwoven fabric of this invention illustrating the fabric in the two basic stages of its construction;
FIG. 2 is an enlarged, fragmentary, partially exploded, broken away, perspective view of the reverse side of the stitched, nonwoven fabric of FIG. 1 illustrating the fabric in the two basic stages of its construction;
FIG. 3 is a reduced, perspective view with one corner turned up of the nonwoven fabric of FIGS. 1 and 2 having a particular surface treatment on both faces of the fabric;
FIG. 4 is a view, like FIG. 3, illustrating different surface treatments on the faces of the fabric;
FIG. 5 is a view, like FIGS. 3 and 4, illustrating different surface treatments on the faces of the fabric; and
FIG. 6 is a view, like FIGS. 3-5, illustrating yet further surface treatments on the faces of the fabric.
Referring now to the drawings, there is illustrated in FIGS. I and 2 the obverse and reverse sides of the stitched, nonwoven fabric constructed according to this invention and generally indicated by the reference numeral 10. FIGS. 1 and 2, as described above, are broken away and include generally exploded portions illustrating the two layers of the composite fabric and portions illustrating the obverse and reverse sides of the two layers of the composite fabric after the same has been stitch-bonded together.
The stitched, nonwoven fabric 10 comprises a first layer 11 comprising a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers which forms one face of the fabric 10 for providing textile fiber characteristics to the one face. The individual fibers of the first layer 11 are oriented in the widthwise direction of the fabric to provide strength and stability to the fabric in the widthwise direction. The nonwoven fibers utilized in the first layer 11 may be any suitable synthetic fibers including viscose, acrylic, polyester and polyamide fibers, or natural fibers including cotton and wool, or other textile fibers, or blends thereof.
The stitched, nonwoven fabric 10 further includes a second layer 12 of three-dimensional, compressible, resilient cellular, resinous foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout to define a multiplicity of cells for providing strength and stability to the fabric 10 in random directions. The foam material for this second layer 12 may be a polyurethane foam, an ester foam or any suitable type of foam material which provides the above-discussed desired characteristics in the fabric 10. The second layer 12 of foam material is superimposed on and contiguous with the first layer 11 and forms the other outer face of the fabric for providing foam characteristics to the other outer face.
The composite nonwoven fabric 10 further includes elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating the superimposed layers 11 and 12 for stitch-bonding together the individual fibers of the first layer 11 and for stitch-bonding together the superimposed layers 11 and 12 to form a composite, integrated, multilayer fabric 10. The rows of stitches 20 extend in the lengthwise direction throughout the length of the fabric for providing strength and stability to the fabric 10 in the lengthwise direction.
The rows of stitches 20 are preferably spaced-apart a distance less than the length of the individual fibers in the first layer 11 to insure the desired stitch-bonding of the fibers therein and to provide strength and stability to the fabric 10. Each of the rows of stitches 20 are formed from two continuous yarns Yl and Y-2 and have chain stitch loop componcnts 21 on the obverse face of the fabric 10 and interconnected straight-line stitch components 22 and diagonally extending stitch components 23 on the reverse face of the fabric. The stitch loop components 21 are formed from both of the yarns Y-l and Y-2 and the straight-line stitch components 22 are formed from one of the yarns Y-l only and the diagonally extending stitch components 23 are formed from the other of the yarns Y-2 only. This arrangement of stitch components provides an interlocked stitch construction which will not rave] or dislocate itself from the stitched, nonwoven fabric 10. The yarns Y-l and Y-2 utilized to form the rows of stitches 20 and stitch components 21, 22 and 23 may be of various natural or synthetic fibers or blends, but continuous filament synthetic yarns are advantageous to obtain relatively high strength and to prevent breakage in the manufacturing operation and to also give good tensile strength to the finished fabric.
For preparing the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers with the fibers thereof oriented in a generally widthwise direction, reference may be had to applicants prior U.S. Pat. No. 3,329,552, issued July 4, 1967, wherein suitable carding or garnetting apparatus, cross-lapping and conveying apparatus are illustrated. Also, for a disclosure of suitable apparatus for forming the rows of stitches 20 including the stitch components 21, 22 and 23, reference may be had to applicants prior US. Pat. No. 3,365,9l8, issued Jan. 30, 1968, for a disclosure of same.
The thus formed stitched, nonwoven fabric may include suitable outer treated surfaces on the outer faces of the fabric 10 for providing desired characteristics adapting the fabric 10 for use as bed coverings, garments and the like, As illustrated in FIG. 3, a first outer treated surface is provided on the one face of the fabric 10 formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers. This first outer treated surface comprises raised, napped fibers 30 extending from the first layer 11 and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches 20 and the chain stitch loop components 21 on the one face of the fabric. Additionally, a second outer treated surface is provided on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer 12 of foam material. This second outer treated surface comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 35 secured to the foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches 20 and the straight-line stitch components 22 and the diagonally extending stitch components 23 along with the foam material forming the second layer 12.
The above-described first treated surface comprised of raised, napped fibers 30 may be formed by any suitable napping machine which is commonly used in the textile industry. Also, the second outer treated surface comprising raised, flocked fibers 35 may be formed by any conventional electrostatic flocking apparatus and may be secured to the foam surface by any suitable adhesive or the like. These operations are conventional in the textile industry and it is not believed that further explanation herein is required.
As shown in FIG. 4, the fabric 10 may include a first outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric 10 formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers. This first outer treated surface is formed by the rows of stitches 20 comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 on the one face of the fabric for compressing the one face of the fabric along the rows to form corresponding depressed areas 40 therealong. The portions of the face of the fabric between the rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 are substantially uncompressed and define spaced, parallel, raised ribs 41 so that a ribbed surface treatment with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on the one face of the fabric. A second outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer 12 of foam material is provided. This second outer treated surface is the same as the second outer treated surface on the fabric 10 of FIG. 3 and comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 35 secured to the foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows ofstitches on the other face of the fabric 10.
As illustrated in FIG. 5, the fabric 10 includes a first outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers. This first outer treated surface is the same as the first outer treated surface illustrated in FIG. 4 and is formed by the rows of stitches 20 comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 on the one face of the fabric for compressing the one face of the fabric along the rows to form corresponding depressed areas 40 therealong. Likewise, the portions of the face of the fabric between the rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 are substantially uncompressed and define spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions 21 therebetween is provided on the one face of the fabric. The fabric 10 of FIG. 5 further includes a second outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer 12 of foam material. This second outer treated surface comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 45 secured to the foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon. The particular flowered pattern illustrated in FIG. 5 is merely exemplary of a type of pattern which may be formed and it is to be understood that any desired patterned arrangement is within the scope of this invention. Patterned flocking may be accomplished in any conventional manner and such is well understood by those with ordinary skill in the textile art. Accordingly, further explanation herein is not deemed necessary.
Referring now to FIG. 6, the stitched, nonwoven fabric 10 therein includes a first outer treated surface on the one face of the fabric formed by the first layer 11 of nonwoven fibers. This first outer treated surface is the same as the first outer treated surface of the fabric of FIG. 3 and comprises raised, napped fibers 30 extending from the first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover the rows of stitches 20 on the one face of the fabric. The fabric 10 of FIG. 6 further includes a second outer treated surface on the other face of the fabric formed by the second layer of foam material. This second outer treated surface is of the same form as the second outer treated surface of the fabric 10 of FIG. 5 and comprises upstanding, flocked fibers 45 secured to the foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
Thus, it may be seen that this invention has provided a novel and improved stitched, nonwoven fabric adapted for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and which provides different outer surface characteristics and which utilizes the individual characteristics and features of the two layers used therein and a stitch construction for integrating the layers into a composite fabric. This improved fabric utilizes various combinations of surface treatments for providing desired finishes on the fabric.
In the drawings and specification, there have been set forth preferred embodiments of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
What is claimed is:
ll. A stitched, multilayer, nonwoven fabric adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and characterized by providing different outer surface characteristics, said fabric comprising:
a first layer comprising a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers, said fibers of said first layer being oriented in the widthwise direction of said fabric to provide strength andstability to said fabric in the widthwise direction, said first layer forming one outer face of said fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics to said one outer face;
a second layer comprising three-dimensional, compressible,
resilient foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout said second layer to define a multiplicity of cells for providing improved hand drapability, compressibility, resilience, washability; bulk and insulating qualities to said fabric and for providing strength to said fabric in random directions, said second layer being superimposed on and being contiguous with said first layer and forming the other outer face of said fabric for providing foam characteristics to said other outer face; and
elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating said superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the individual fibers of said first layer and for stitch-bonding together said superimposed layers to form said stitched, nonwoven fabric, said rows of stitches extending in the lengthwise direction throughout the length of said fabric for providing strength and stability to said fabric in the lengthwise direction, each of said rows of stitches is formed from at least two continuous yarns and has chain stitch loop components on said one face of said fabric and interconnected diagonally extending and straight-line stitch components on said other face of said fabric and in which said chain stitch loop components are formed from both of said yarns and in which said diagonally extending stitch components are formed from one of said yarns and saidstraight-line stitch components are formed from the other of said yarns.
2. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric.
3. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim I, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and v defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric.
4. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
5. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim I, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
6. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam' material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
7. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric,
8. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
9. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORECTIN Patent No. 3, 635, 785 Dated Januarv 18, 1972 Inventor(S) George H, Hughes It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:
Column 1, line 22, "switches" should be -stitchesline 24, "boning" should be -bonding-- Column 6, line 9, after "fabric" insert --formed.
Signed and sealed this 13th day of June 1972.
(SEAL) Attest:
EDWARD M.FLETCHER,JR. v ROBERT GOTTSCHALK Attesting Officer Commissioner of Patents F ORM POJOSO. (10-69)

Claims (9)

1. A stitched, multilayer, nonwoven fabric adaptable for use as bed coverings, garments and the like and characterized by providing different outer surface characteristics, said fabric comprising: a first layer comprising a three-dimensional, self-sustaining batt of nonwoven, textile fibers, said fibers of said first layer being oriented in the widthwise direction of said fabric to provide strength and stability to said fabric in the widthwise direction, said first layer forming one outer face of said fabric for providing textile fiber characteristics to said one outer face; a second layer comprising three-dimensional, compressible, resilient foam material having an integral network extending in random directions throughout said second layer to define a multiplicity of cells for providing improved hand drapability, compressibility, resilience, washability, bulk and insulating qualities to said fabric and for providing strength to said fabric in random directions, saiD second layer being superimposed on and being contiguous with said first layer and forming the other outer face of said fabric for providing foam characteristics to said other outer face; and elongate, spaced-apart rows of stitches penetrating said superimposed layers for stitch-bonding together the individual fibers of said first layer and for stitch-bonding together said superimposed layers to form said stitched, nonwoven fabric, said rows of stitches extending in the lengthwise direction throughout the length of said fabric for providing strength and stability to said fabric in the lengthwise direction, each of said rows of stitches is formed from at least two continuous yarns and has chain stitch loop components on said one face of said fabric and interconnected diagonally extending and straight-line stitch components on said other face of said fabric and in which said chain stitch loop components are formed from both of said yarns and in which said diagonally extending stitch components are formed from one of said yarns and said straight-line stitch components are formed from the other of said yarns.
2. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric.
3. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric.
4. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
5. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes an outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
6. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
7. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising Closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said other face of said fabric.
8. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface being formed by said rows of stitches comprising closely spaced-apart, parallel, exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions on said one face of said fabric and compressing said one face of said fabric along said rows to form corresponding depressed areas therealong, the portions of said face of said fabric between said rows of chain stitch loop portions being substantially uncompressed and defining spaced, parallel, raised ribs so that a ribbed surface with exposed rows of chain stitch loop portions therebetween is provided on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
9. A nonwoven fabric, as set forth in claim 1, in which said fabric further includes a first outer treated surface on said one face of said fabric formed by said first layer of nonwoven fibers, said first outer treated surface comprising raised, napped fibers extending from said first layer and being of sufficient height and density to cover said rows of stitches on said one face of said fabric; and a second outer treated surface on said other face of said fabric formed by said second layer of foam material, said second outer treated surface comprising upstanding, flocked fibers secured to said foam material and being disposed in a patterned arrangement thereon.
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Cited By (12)

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US3782137A (en) * 1972-06-02 1974-01-01 Nat Distillers Chem Corp Stitched non-woven textile fabric having varied pattern of raised ribs on one face
US3965503A (en) * 1974-11-07 1976-06-29 Gridel Joseph Y Method of producing an absorbent, washable, protective mattress sheet and a sheet produced thereby
US4233701A (en) * 1976-11-08 1980-11-18 Fieldcrest Mills, Inc. Napped bedding blanket
US4514870A (en) * 1982-09-30 1985-05-07 Tyler Jr Charles E Fire resistant lap protection blanket
US4891957A (en) * 1987-06-22 1990-01-09 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Stitchbonded material including elastomeric nonwoven fibrous web
US5249323A (en) * 1991-08-09 1993-10-05 Asami Corporation Method of fabric-to-fabric bonding and seamless quilt formed thereby
US6115859A (en) * 1995-09-12 2000-09-12 Kabushiki Kaisha Mapepe Unit Mattress and process for producing stuffing therefor
US20060174409A1 (en) * 2005-02-10 2006-08-10 Holly Hermanson Blanket for use during bodyworking or massage
US20110047699A1 (en) * 2009-09-03 2011-03-03 Pacific Coast Feather Company Baffle box comforter
US11015275B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-05-25 L&P Property Management Company Method of quilting layered input web
US11015274B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-05-25 L&P Property Management Company Quilting machine
US11111615B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-09-07 L & P Property Management Company Quilted panel

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US3329552A (en) * 1966-06-16 1967-07-04 Beacon Mfg Co Stitched non-woven fabric
US3392078A (en) * 1964-10-05 1968-07-09 Indian Head Mills Inc Nonwoven fabric and method of making the same
US3395065A (en) * 1967-10-06 1968-07-30 Beacon Mfg Co Non-woven blanket fabric and method
US3405674A (en) * 1965-03-15 1968-10-15 Kem Wove Ind Inc Method of producing a quilted nonwoven textile product
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US3410748A (en) * 1964-03-04 1968-11-12 Reeves Bros Inc Method of bonding porous polyurethane to loosely woven fabric and resultant article
US3392078A (en) * 1964-10-05 1968-07-09 Indian Head Mills Inc Nonwoven fabric and method of making the same
US3405674A (en) * 1965-03-15 1968-10-15 Kem Wove Ind Inc Method of producing a quilted nonwoven textile product
US3329552A (en) * 1966-06-16 1967-07-04 Beacon Mfg Co Stitched non-woven fabric
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Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3782137A (en) * 1972-06-02 1974-01-01 Nat Distillers Chem Corp Stitched non-woven textile fabric having varied pattern of raised ribs on one face
US3965503A (en) * 1974-11-07 1976-06-29 Gridel Joseph Y Method of producing an absorbent, washable, protective mattress sheet and a sheet produced thereby
US4233701A (en) * 1976-11-08 1980-11-18 Fieldcrest Mills, Inc. Napped bedding blanket
US4514870A (en) * 1982-09-30 1985-05-07 Tyler Jr Charles E Fire resistant lap protection blanket
US4891957A (en) * 1987-06-22 1990-01-09 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Stitchbonded material including elastomeric nonwoven fibrous web
US5249323A (en) * 1991-08-09 1993-10-05 Asami Corporation Method of fabric-to-fabric bonding and seamless quilt formed thereby
US6115859A (en) * 1995-09-12 2000-09-12 Kabushiki Kaisha Mapepe Unit Mattress and process for producing stuffing therefor
US20060174409A1 (en) * 2005-02-10 2006-08-10 Holly Hermanson Blanket for use during bodyworking or massage
US20110047699A1 (en) * 2009-09-03 2011-03-03 Pacific Coast Feather Company Baffle box comforter
US8561229B2 (en) * 2009-09-03 2013-10-22 Pacific Coast Feather Co. Baffle box comforter
US11015275B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-05-25 L&P Property Management Company Method of quilting layered input web
US11015274B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-05-25 L&P Property Management Company Quilting machine
US11111615B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-09-07 L & P Property Management Company Quilted panel
US11578441B2 (en) 2018-11-30 2023-02-14 L&P Property Management Company Quilted panel

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