Composite fabric and a method and apparatus for manufacturing the same

Abstract

This invention relates generally to a composite fabric and a method and apparatus for manufacturing a composite fabric, especially suitable for apparel application, upholstery, bed and bath applications. In an embodiment, a composite fabric comprises a base fabric made by weaving or knitting. A plurality of gaps is disposed in-between the fibers of the yarns of the base fabric. A plurality of functional fibers is entangled in the gaps followed by swelling of the fibers, with predetermined retention to the yarns of the base fabric.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates generally to a composite fabric and a method and apparatus for manufacturing a composite fabric, especially suitable for apparel application, upholstery, bed and bath applications.PRIOR ART[0002]Conventional textile fabrics are produced mainly through weaving and knitting technology. This value chain starts from fiber selection and development / modification so as to bring them to a spinnable form. This is followed by spinning of the yarns. Many spinning technologies are known in the art. However, ring spinning is the most versatile and dominant one. Compact spinning is the latest advancement in this ring spinning technology. Spinning is followed by weaving or knitting process wherein yarns are interlaced or intermeshed together to form a fabric.[0003]Woven fabrics are interlaced structures involving two series of threads i.e. warp and weft at right angles to each other. The fabric properties are governed by its constructional paramet...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

But the properties like thermal insulation, water vapor permeability & air permeability are poor in these constructions because of compact structures resulting from the pressure of interlacing at the cross over points.

Since there is no axial alignment of threads in knitted fabrics they lack the gracefulness as in case of woven fabrics.

Thus, the drape is poor and these fabrics are soft to handle.

The crease recovery of these fabrics is also poor.

Further, route of chemical finishes has a limitation of life of finish and also the fabric doesn't remain eco-friendly

Fabrics made through these processes are very stiff and lag in handle and feel and not suitable for any application next to human skin.

Additionally it is a long and expensive process to produce a composite fabric.

Further, conventional composite fabrics, methods and systems for manufacture of the same do not provide a fabric (i) wherein induced stresses in the fabric are substantially minimized without repositioning of the yarns and / or reduction in dimensions of the finished fabric (ii) hygienic and eco-friendly method of manufacturing a composite fabric (iii) a composite fabric whose strength and properties can be adjusted during manufacture so as to suit desired application (iv) a significantly wider range of application as against traditional textiles.

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