Electromagnetic shielding fabric

Abstract

An electromagnetic shielding fabric (1; 2; 3) comprising: - a non-conductive woven layer (101) comprising a plurality of non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and a plurality of non-conductive weft threads (24a-b, 34a-f), both the non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and the non-conductive weft threads (24a-b, 34a-f) being made of a non-conductive material; and a conductive woven layer (111) comprising a plurality of conductive warp threads (21; 31) and a plurality of conductive weft threads (23; 33), both the conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the conductive weft threads (23; 33) being at least partially made of a conductive material, wherein the non-conductive woven layer (101) defines a patterned surface (10) of the fabric (1; 2; 3) and the conductive woven layer (111) defines a grid-like structure (11), the non-conductive woven layer (101) and the conductive woven layer (111) being interwoven together; the fabric (1; 2; 3) comprising a plurality of sections (25a-b; 35a-b), each section (25a-b; 35a-b) further comprising a junction point (B1, B2, B3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of textiles. In particular, this invention relates to electromagnetic shielding fabrics. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices capable of exchanging data with each other via radio frequency communication are widespread. In particular, in the case of Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWANs) and Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) (such as GSM, UMTS, LTE / LTE-A, 5G, WiFi, and WiMAX telecommunications networks), data is continuously transmitted between devices via radio frequency transmission in various frequency bands and at various energy levels. Furthermore, short-range communication standards such as Bluetooth and ZigBee are also widely used for wirelessly connecting various devices.

[0003] Especially in urban environments, every corner of the human environment is continuously permeated by electromagnetic radiation, which carries a large amount of energy covering a wide spectrum.

[0004] This radio frequency congestion can cause interference problems and reduce communication efficiency. Furthermore, the long-term effects of continuous exposure to electromagnetic radiation on humans are not fully understood.

[0005] Furthermore, wireless connectivity provides opportunities for unauthorized access to data or remote (i.e., within the range of a target device successfully transmitting / receiving wireless signals (e.g., approximately tens of meters for WiFi signals and hundreds of meters for GSM signals)) infiltration / hijacking of wireless devices or entire computer networks.

[0006] As can be seen from the above, there is a clear need for solutions that can at least partially shield people or spaces (e.g., windows of buildings, rooms, driver's cabs of vehicles, etc.) from electromagnetic radiation in a simple and effective manner.

[0007] Therefore, textiles or fabrics comprising metal wires have been proposed in the art, the metal wires being arranged to provide electromagnetic radiation shielding based on the so-called Faraday cage effect.

[0008] For example, CN 105483906 discloses a composite fabric formed by combining various materials, using bamboo fiber and cotton / stainless steel fiber in the warp direction. The bamboo fiber and cotton / stainless steel fiber are arranged in a 5:1 ratio. In the weft direction, the surface layer includes cotton / stainless steel fiber, while the lining layer uses modal fiber. The surface layer and lining layer are arranged in a 1:1 ratio. The surface layer uses a two-up-one-down twill weave as the surface in the warp direction, and uses a fluffy and soft towel structure as the base of the lining layer. The cotton / stainless steel fiber on the front of the surface layer is interwoven in both the warp and weft directions to form a mesh structure to provide electromagnetic radiation shielding and antistatic properties.

[0009] CN 201704490 discloses a dual antibacterial and radiation-resistant fabric, which includes multiple warp and weft threads. The warp threads include alternating bamboo fiber threads and metal fiber threads. Each weft thread consists of a metal fiber thread and a bamboo fiber thread arranged on the upper surface of the metal fiber thread. The weft threads are sequentially guided below the first warp thread of a set of four warp threads arranged side by side, and then guided above the other three warp threads.

[0010] DE 60216062 discloses a reinforcing fabric. This reinforcing fabric includes a warp and weft bonding portion on its front side or a mesh bonding portion on its back side, the mesh bonding portion comprising a reinforcing mesh of warp and weft. The warp and weft of the reinforcing mesh are made of a material having higher mechanical properties than the warp and weft used to manufacture the front side. The reinforcing mesh is connected to the front side by its warp and weft, which are attached at different points on the front side and cross each other on the outside of the base fabric forming the front side.

[0011] The applicant has discovered that the conductive threads of these fabrics have an uneven mesh structure. In particular, the intersections between the weft and warp threads are not regularly spaced, and / or the weft and warp threads are simply loosely positioned on top of each other, which does not guarantee reliable contact. Furthermore, the contact between the conductive warp and conductive weft threads is affected by the shape of the surface covered by the fabric, or by any folds that may occur during use.

[0012] These drawbacks disrupt the regularity of the grid structure of conductive lines in the fabric, and thus prevent the fabric from providing a constant and uniform shielding effect.

[0013] Furthermore, the applicant has discovered that electromagnetic shielding fabrics known in the art do not allow for the weaving of complex patterns while maintaining a regular mesh structure. In other words, fabrics known in the art are "functional" fabrics, which are unsuitable for manufacturing products that also meet the requirements of the fashion and interior design industry. Summary of the Invention

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0015] In particular, the present invention aims to provide a fabric that does not conflict with functionality and design. In other words, the present invention relates to a fabric that can provide effective electromagnetic radiation shielding while being characterized by minimal visual and physical limitations, allowing for the weaving of a wide variety of designs.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a fabric comprising an effective electromagnetic shielding mesh and simultaneously including an aesthetically patterned surface. In the aesthetically patterned surface, the conductive lines forming the electromagnetic shielding mesh are imperceptible or substantially imperceptible to the user.

[0017] These and other objects of the present invention will become clear from the following description and appended claims that form part of this specification.

[0018] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a fabric comprising:

[0019] - A non-conductive woven layer comprising multiple non-conductive warp threads and multiple non-conductive weft threads, both of which are made of a non-conductive material; and

[0020] - A conductive weave layer comprising multiple conductive warp threads and multiple conductive weft threads, both of which are at least partially made of conductive material.

[0021] In detail, the non-conductive woven layer defines a patterned surface of the fabric, and the conductive woven layer defines a mesh-like structure, with the non-conductive and conductive woven layers interwoven together. Furthermore, the fabric includes multiple segments arranged adjacent to each other in the warp and / or weft directions, each segment including at least one set of non-conductive warp yarns and one conductive warp yarn, and at least one set of non-conductive weft yarns and one conductive weft yarn. The set of non-conductive warp yarns includes at least two non-conductive yarns, and the set of non-conductive weft yarns includes at least one non-conductive yarn.

[0022] Advantageously, each segment also includes:

[0023] - A first junction point, in which the conductive warp is lowered below the conductive weft; and

[0024] - For the second junction of each non-conductive meridian in a set of non-conductive meridians, wherein the non-conductive meridian is raised above the conductive latitude.

[0025] In addition, alternating segments along the longitudinal and / or latitudinal directions include:

[0026] - A third junction point, in which the conductive warp is raised above at least one of the non-conductive latitudes in a set of non-conductive latitudes, the third junction point being adjacent to the first junction point (where the conductive warp is lowered below the conductive latitude).

[0027] Within the scope of this specification and the appended claims, the term "conductive" means a material property through which electric current flows, while the term "non-conductive" means a material property that prevents electric current from flowing. In particular, a "conductive wire" is characterized by a resistivity significantly lower than that of a "non-conductive wire." For example, a non-conductive wire may have a resistivity three or more orders of magnitude greater than that of a conductive wire.

[0028] The applicant recognizes that the fabric of the present invention, as defined above, provides excellent electromagnetic shielding over a very large frequency spectrum. "Excellent electromagnetic shielding" refers to the effect of reducing the energy associated with electromagnetic radiation measured downstream of the fabric to a value that is 1% or less of the energy measured upstream of the fabric.

[0029] In other words, the body covered by the fabric according to the invention is protected from electromagnetic radiation (which has been shown to be harmful to humans and / or sufficient to enable wireless communication) from reaching it.

[0030] Specifically, the fabric according to the invention, as defined above, effectively shields electromagnetic radiation having frequencies included in frequency bands used by substantially all wireless communication systems, such as cellular networks (e.g., GSM, UMTS, LTE / LTE-A, 5G), WLANs (e.g., WiFi, WiMAX), short-range communication systems, and personal area networks (e.g., Bluetooth, ZigBee). More generally, the fabric according to the invention, as defined above, effectively shields electromagnetic radiation in the very high frequency (VHF), ultra-high frequency (UHF), and very high frequency (SHF) ranges, and at least partially in the extremely high frequency (EHF) range.

[0031] As designated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), VHF covers radio frequencies from 30 MHz to 300 MHz, UHF covers radio frequencies from 300 MHz to 3 GHz, SHF covers radio frequencies from 3 GHz to 30 GHz, and EHF covers radio frequencies from 30 GHz to 300 GHz.

[0032] Meanwhile, non-conductive layers can be woven to create aesthetic patterns, even highly complex ones. In fact, conductive warp and weft threads are imperceptible on non-conductive layers, while conductive layers are constructed as a uniform and regular grid structure.

[0033] In particular, the inventive combination developed by the applicant results in two interwoven layers of the fabric. Simultaneously, the conductive warp and weft threads are regularly and mechanically in constant contact along the weft and warp directions of the fabric. This ensures that the mesh structure remains substantially unchanged when the fabric is folded or stretched during its use, thus providing reliable electromagnetic shielding in a wide range of applications and conditions.

[0034] Furthermore, the specific structure of the fabric according to the invention has a set of non-conductive warp threads (comprising at least two non-conductive threads) and a set of non-conductive weft threads (comprising at least one non-conductive thread) in each section of the fabric, which allows for a wide variety of aesthetic patterns, for example, by using jacquard weaving techniques.

[0035] In one embodiment, the set of non-conductive meridians comprises three non-conductive meridians. Preferably, alternating segments along the meridian and / or latitudinal directions include a single third junction where a conductive meridian is raised above at least one non-conductive latitudinal.

[0036] The applicant has discovered that this particular combination between conductive warp and conductive weft, and between non-conductive warp and conductive weft, essentially allows for any desired pattern to be obtained on the non-conductive weave layer, while simultaneously allowing for a very fine and reliable mesh structure to be obtained on the conductive weave layer, which provides significant electromagnetic shielding in the aforementioned spectrum.

[0037] In one embodiment, the set of non-conductive latitude lines includes at least four non-conductive latitude lines. Preferably, each segment includes at least one additional third junction, in which a conductive warp line is raised above at least one non-conductive latitude line. Advantageously, each additional third junction is spaced at least three non-conductive latitude lines along the warp direction from the preceding first junction and / or third junction.

[0038] This combined arrangement allows the conductive weave layer structure to remain firmly bonded to the non-conductive weave layer and the regular grid structure during the use of the fabric, even for fabrics that include a large number of non-conductive warp and / or weft yarns.

[0039] In one embodiment, each first junction point is spaced from the first junction point of another segment by a distance of 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm in the latitudinal and / or longitudinal (preferably in both latitudinal and longitudinal) directions, preferably equal to a distance of 2 mm.

[0040] Preferably, the ratio of conductive and non-conductive warp wires in each segment is selected from 1:3, 1:5, 1:7 and 1:9.

[0041] The applicant has discovered that these specific ratios between the meridians and parallels provide optimal results in pattern design and electromagnetic shielding.

[0042] In one embodiment, the conductive warp and conductive weft are made of yarn obtained by spinning metal fibers (preferably stainless steel fibers) with natural fibers, wherein the proportion of the natural fibers ranges from 5% to 50% of the metal fibers (e.g., stainless steel fibers), preferably equal to 20% of the metal fibers (e.g., stainless steel fibers).

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the conductive warp and conductive weft are made of yarn obtained by spinning stainless steel fibers with wool.

[0044] The conductive warp and weft yarns of this composition allow for efficient Faraday cage construction and yarn dyeing. Therefore, a wide variety of aesthetic patterns can be woven. Furthermore, in the fabrics according to the invention, the above composition is optimal for concealing the presence of metal fibers. In other words, the above composition allows for minimizing color variations (graying) and / or metallic sheen that are typically associated with the presence of metal fibers in fabrics.

[0045] Furthermore, the applicant has discovered that conductive wires made of stainless steel have advantages over other conductive materials, such as silver or copper. In particular, stainless steel is both dermatologically safe and corrosion-resistant. Therefore, the wire can interact with human skin without causing adverse reactions and can withstand abrasion and chemical treatments. The resulting wire is safe for human use and maintains a stable appearance over a long service life.

[0046] In embodiments of the present invention, the conductive warp and conductive weft have a yarn count or linear density ranging from 12.5 tex (g / km) to 125 tex (g / km).

[0047] Specifically, yarn count (also known as "weight grade") indicates the weight per unit length of yarn or thread. The unit for yarn count is "tex," which corresponds to one gram per kilometer in the international measurement system, i.e., 1 tex = 1 g / 1 km.

[0048] Preferably, each of the conductive warp and conductive weft is made of one or more yarns having a fineness of 8 m / g to 50 m / g (in the industry, these are indicated as 8 Nm and 50 Nm, respectively).

[0049] Specifically, "fineness" is a characteristic of the thread, defined as the length of the thread per unit weight. The unit of fineness is "marking," or Nm, which corresponds to one meter per gram in the international measurement system, i.e., 1 Nm = 1 m / 1g.

[0050] More preferably, each of the conductive warp and conductive weft comprises two yarns, each of which has a fineness of 50 m / g (indicated in the industry as 50 / 2 Nm).

[0051] The applicant has discovered that the structure ensures reliable mechanical and electrical properties of the conductive wires, which allows for easy weaving in combination with non-conductive wires.

[0052] In one embodiment, each non-conductive warp yarn comprises two yarns, each made of wool and having a fineness of 60 m / g (indicated in the industry as 60 / 2 Nm). Furthermore, each non-conductive weft yarn comprises two yarns, each made of wool and having a designation of 28 m / g (indicated in the industry as 28 / 2 Nm).

[0053] These characteristics of the yarn allow for the production of high-quality fabrics suitable for manufacturing products that meet the needs of the fashion and interior design industries.

[0054] A different aspect of the invention relates to a multi-piece fabric. This multi-piece fabric comprises at least two fabric pieces according to one of the above embodiments. Advantageously, the two fabric pieces are sewn together.

[0055] Multi-piece fabrics provide greater electromagnetic shielding than single-piece fabrics. Furthermore, with the two outermost pieces of the multi-piece fabric sewn together and the patterned surface facing the external environment, the mesh structure is completely hidden from view.

[0056] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing an electromagnetic shielding fabric, the electromagnetic shielding fabric comprising:

[0057] - A non-conductive woven layer comprising multiple non-conductive warp threads and multiple non-conductive weft threads, both of which are made of a non-conductive material; and

[0058] - A conductive weave layer comprising multiple conductive warp threads and multiple conductive weft threads, both of which are at least partially made of conductive material.

[0059] The non-conductive weave layer defines the patterned surface of the fabric, and the conductive weave layer defines the mesh structure, with the non-conductive and conductive weave layers interwoven together.

[0060] The method includes the step of weaving a fabric by defining a plurality of segments arranged adjacent to each other in the warp and / or weft directions. Specifically, each segment includes at least one set of non-conductive warp yarns and one conductive warp yarn, and at least one set of non-conductive weft yarns and one conductive weft yarn. The set of non-conductive warp yarns includes at least two non-conductive yarns, and the set of non-conductive weft yarns includes at least one non-conductive yarn.

[0061] Advantageously, the step of weaving a fabric by defining multiple sections includes, in each section:

[0062] -At the first junction point, the conductive warp is lowered below the conductive weft; and

[0063] - At the corresponding second junction, each non-conductive meridian in a set of non-conductive meridians is raised above the conductive parallel, and along alternating sections of the meridian and / or parallel:

[0064] - At the third junction point, the conductive warp is raised above at least one of the non-conductive wefts in a set of non-conductive wefts, the third junction point being adjacent to the first junction point during weaving.

[0065] In one embodiment, the set of non-conductive warps includes three non-conductive warps.

[0066] In this case, the step of raising the conductive warp at the third junction above at least one of the non-conductive latitudes in a set of non-conductive latitudes includes: raising the conductive warp at a single third junction in each segment.

[0067] In various embodiments, a set of non-conductive latitude lines includes at least four non-conductive latitude lines. In this case, the step of raising a conductive warp line above at least one of the non-conductive latitude lines in the set at the third junction point includes: raising the conductive warp line above multiple non-conductive latitude lines at the corresponding third junction point. Specifically, each third junction point is spaced at least three non-conductive latitude lines from the previous third junction point along the warp direction.

[0068] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of some preferred embodiments depicted in the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0069] The invention will now be described with reference to some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, which are related to different aspects of the invention.

[0070] Figure 1 It is a part of the fabric according to an embodiment of the present invention, partially folded to show its two sides;

[0071] Figure 2a It is part of the combined pattern of the fabric according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 2b yes Figure 2a The details of the first section of the fabric highlight the first combination scheme of the conductive warp and conductive weft threads.

[0073] Figure 2c yes Figure 2a The details of the second section of the fabric highlight the second combination scheme of the conductive warp and conductive weft threads;

[0074] Figure 3a It is part of the combined pattern of the fabric according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 3b yes Figure 3a The details of the first section of the fabric highlight the first combination scheme of the conductive warp and conductive weft threads.

[0076] Figure 3c yes Figure 3a The details of the second section of the fabric highlight the second combination scheme of the conductive warp and conductive weft threads;

[0077] Figure 4a and Figure 4b It is a graph of electromagnetic shielding, which is a function of the frequency of electromagnetic radiation provided by a first sample of the fabric according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 5a and Figure 5b This is a graph of electromagnetic shielding, which is a function of the frequency of electromagnetic radiation provided by a second sample of shielding fabric, which is not an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0079] Figure 6a and Figure 6b It is a graph of electromagnetic shielding, which is a function of the frequency of electromagnetic radiation provided by a third sample of another shielding fabric that is not an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0080] While the invention may be practiced in several alternative ways, some preferred embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail below. However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific disclosed embodiments, but rather, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0081] Unless otherwise stated, the use of "for example," "etc.", or indicates a non-exclusive alternative without limitation. Unless otherwise stated, the use of "including" means "including but not limited to".

[0082] Figure 1 A textile or fabric 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, comprising an aesthetically patterned surface 10 and an opposing second shielding surface 11. Specifically, a non-conductive weave layer forms the patterned surface 10 and is interwoven with the conductive weave layer forming the shielding surface 11.

[0083] The non-conductive woven layer comprises multiple warp and weft threads woven in a pattern, designed to reproduce the desired pattern 101 on the patterned surface 10. Typically, the pattern 101 extends along the warp direction W of the patterned surface 10.A and / or latitudinal W E Repeated periodically.

[0084] The warp and weft of the non-conductive weave layer are made of non-conductive material. In the following text, the warp and weft of the non-conductive weave layer will be referred to as “non-conductive” warp and “non-conductive” weft, respectively.

[0085] Preferably, the non-conductive warp and non-conductive weft of the non-conductive layer are made of natural fibers, more preferably wool.

[0086] In the textile industry, yarns can be classified based on "fineness," which is the length of the yarn per unit weight. The unit of measurement for fineness is "grade," or Nm, which corresponds to one meter per gram in the international measurement system, i.e., 1 Nm = 1 m / 1g.

[0087] In embodiments of the present invention, the non-conductive warp yarn is a wool yarn with a fineness of 60 / 2 Nm, i.e., each yarn comprises two yarns, each yarn having a fineness of 60 m / g; and the non-conductive weft yarn is a wool yarn with a fineness of 28 / 2 Nm, i.e., each yarn comprises two yarns, each yarn having a fineness of 28 m / g. More typically, the fineness of the non-conductive warp yarn and the conductive weft yarn ranges from 8 / 1 Nm to 50 / 1 Nm.

[0088] The conductive woven layer comprises multiple warp and weft threads woven in a grid pattern 111, designed to form a so-called Faraday cage. Specifically, the grid pattern 111 of the conductive layer includes warp threads along the shielding surface 11 in the warp direction W. A and / or latitudinal W E The meridians and parallels are spaced apart from each other in a regular and uniform manner.

[0089] The warp and weft threads of the conductive fabric layer are made of conductive material. In the following text, the warp and weft threads of the conductive fabric layer will be referred to as “conductive” warp and “conductive” weft.

[0090] Preferably, the conductive warp and weft of the conductive layer are made of a mixture of natural fibers (more preferably wool) and metal (more preferably stainless steel). Advantageously, the conductive warp and weft are made of yarns spun from wool and stainless steel fibers. Preferably, the conductive warp and weft are made of yarns spun from metal and natural fibers, wherein the proportion of natural fibers ranges from 5% to 50% of the metal fibers (preferably equal to 20% of the metal fibers). In the example discussed, the metal fibers are stainless steel fibers.

[0091] For example, the conductive warp and conductive weft yarns have a yarn count ranging from 12.5 tex (i.e., 12.5 g / km) to 125 tex (125 g / km).

[0092] Preferably, the conductive warp and conductive weft are made of a mixture of wool and stainless steel fibers and have a fineness of 50 / 2Nm, that is, each thread consists of 2 yarns and each yarn has a fineness of 50m / g.

[0093] Fabric 1 is woven in a manner in which non-conductive and conductive woven layers are firmly interwoven with each other. The grid pattern 111 has a substantially uniform and regular structure, and at the same time, the conductive warp and conductive weft are invisible or substantially invisible to the observer on the patterned surface 10.

[0094] Go to Figure 2a , Figure 2a A portion of the bonding pattern 2 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, the bonding pattern 2 corresponds to the woven pattern observable on the patterned surface 10 of the fabric 1.

[0095] Combined pattern 2 includes multiple conductive warp lines 21 and non-conductive warp lines 22, which cross the latitudinal W according to a rule scheme. E Arrangement. Specifically, the conductive meridian 21 and the non-conductive meridian 22 are arranged according to a periodic structure, which includes one conductive meridian 21 and three non-conductive meridians 22, that is, the ratio of conductive to non-conductive meridians is equal to 1:3.

[0096] Similarly, combined pattern 2 includes multiple conductive weft lines 23 and non-conductive weft lines 24a and 24b, which cross the longitudinal direction W according to a rule scheme. A Arrangement. Specifically, the conductive weft 23 and the non-conductive wefts 24a and 24b are arranged according to a periodic structure, which includes one conductive weft 23 and two non-conductive wefts 24a and 24b, i.e., the ratio of conductive to non-conductive wefts is 1:2. Advantageously, the non-conductive wefts 24a and 24b typically have different colors.

[0097] Combined pattern 2 can be subdivided into multiple segments 25a, 25b, each segment including multiple junction points. A "junction point" refers to a point where a meridian intersects a parallel by passing above or below it. In the example discussed, each segment 25a, 25b includes a set of twelve junction points between a group of four meridians and a group of three parallels. Specifically, each group of meridians includes one conductive meridian 21 and three non-conductive meridians 22, while each group of parallels includes one conductive parallel 23 and two non-conductive parallels 24a, 24b.

[0098] Sections 25a and 25b are in the meridional W direction A and latitude W EThe sections are arranged adjacent to each other. In the example discussed, multiple sections 25a, 25b can be divided into two groups of sections. Specifically, the conductive warp 21 and weft 23 in section 25a belonging to the first group of sections are woven according to a first combination scheme, while the conductive warp 21 and weft 23 in section 25b belonging to the second group of sections are woven according to a second combination scheme.

[0099] Furthermore, segment 25a of the first segment group and segment 25b of the second segment group cross the meridional W direction. A and latitude W E Alternating arrangement means that along each direction, segments belonging to one group are arranged alternately with segments belonging to another group.

[0100] Figure 2b A first bonding scheme is shown for weaving conductive warp 21 and weft 23 in segment 25a of a first segment group. The first bonding scheme includes a single first bonding point B1 (solid black) where the conductive warp 21 is lowered below the conductive weft 23. Furthermore, the first bonding scheme includes a second bonding point B2 (solid white) for each non-conductive warp 22, where the non-conductive warp 22 is raised above the conductive weft 23. Additionally, the first bonding scheme includes a single third bonding point B3 (sparse dot) where the conductive warp 21 is raised above a non-conductive weft 24a, while the conductive warp 21 is lowered below another non-conductive weft 24b in a corresponding bonding point B4 (sparse dot). The single third bonding point B3 is adjacent to the single first bonding point B1 of segment 25a.

[0101] In the remaining junction B5 (zigzag patterning), the non-conductive warp 22 can be raised or lowered to reproduce the desired aesthetic design on the patterned surface 10.

[0102] Figure 2c The second bonding scheme shown corresponds to the first scheme but lacks the third bonding point B3. In other words, the second bonding scheme includes a single first bonding point B1 (solid black), where the conductive warp 21 is lowered below the conductive weft 23. Furthermore, the second bonding scheme includes a second bonding point B2 (solid white) for each non-conductive warp 22, where the non-conductive warp 22 is raised above the conductive weft 23. Additionally, the conductive warp 21 is also lowered below the non-conductive wefts 24a, 24b in the corresponding bonding points B4 (sparse points). In the remaining bonding points B5 (zigzag patterning), the non-conductive warp 22 can be raised or lowered to reproduce the aesthetic design on the patterned surface 10.

[0103] The applicant has discovered that the specific combination pattern (i.e., along the meridian W) A and latitude W EThe alternating arrangement of the first and second bonding schemes allows for the design of a variety of aesthetic patterns, even highly complex ones, on the patterned surface 10. Furthermore, the conductive warp threads 21 and conductive weft threads 23 are invisible or substantially imperceptible on the patterned surface 10, thus not affecting the design quality on the patterned surface 10. Simultaneously, the grid pattern 111 has a uniform and regular structure, wherein the conductive warp threads 21 and conductive weft threads 23 include regular and uniform contact points (mechanical and electrical) along the weft and warp directions of the fabric.

[0104] Furthermore, the patterned surface 10 and shielding surface 11 of the fabric 1 according to the invention are firmly joined together by interlacing along the weft and warp directions of the fabric. This ensures that the mesh structure remains substantially unchanged when the fabric is folded or stretched during its use, thereby providing reliable electromagnetic shielding in many applications.

[0105] Figure 3a A portion of the bonding pattern 3 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, the bonding pattern 3 corresponds to the woven pattern observable on the patterned surface 10 of the fabric 1.

[0106] Combined pattern 3 includes multiple conductive meridians 31 and non-conductive meridians 32, which cross the latitudinal W according to a rule scheme. E Arrangement. Specifically, the conductive meridian 31 and the non-conductive meridian 32 are arranged according to a periodic structure, which includes one conductive meridian 31 and nine non-conductive meridians 32 (i.e., the ratio of conductive to non-conductive meridians is 1:9).

[0107] Similarly, combined with pattern 3, it includes crossing the meridian W according to the rule scheme. A Multiple conductive weft lines 33 and non-conductive weft lines 34a-34f are arranged. Specifically, the conductive weft lines 33 and non-conductive weft lines 34a-34f are arranged according to a periodic structure, comprising one conductive weft line 33 and six non-conductive weft lines 34a-34f (i.e., the conductive / non-conductive weft line ratio is 1:6). Advantageously, the non-conductive weft lines 34a-34f typically have two or more different colors to provide a multi-color aesthetic design on the patterned surface 10.

[0108] Combined with pattern 3, it can be subdivided into multiple segments 35a, 35b of possible junctions between meridians and parallels. Therefore, each segment 35a, 35b includes a set of seventy junctions between a group of ten meridians and a group of seven parallels. Specifically, each group of meridians includes one conductive meridian 31 and nine non-conductive meridians 32, while each group of parallels includes one conductive parallel 33 and six non-conductive parallels 34a-34f.

[0109] Sections 35a and 35b are in the meridional W direction A and latitude W EThe sections are arranged adjacent to each other. In the example discussed, multiple sections 35a and 35b can be considered to belong to two different section groups. Specifically, the conductive warp 31 and weft 33 in section 35a of the first section group are woven according to the first combination scheme, while the conductive warp 31 and weft 33 in section 35b belonging to the second section group are woven according to the second combination scheme.

[0110] Furthermore, segment 35a of the first segment group and segment 35b of the second segment group cross the meridional W direction. A and latitude W E Alternate arrangement.

[0111] As in Figure 3b As can be best appreciated, the first bonding scheme includes a single first bonding point B1 (solid black), wherein the conductive warp 31 is lowered below the conductive weft 33. Furthermore, the first bonding scheme includes a second bonding point B2 (solid white) for each non-conductive warp 32, wherein the non-conductive warp 32 is raised above the conductive weft 33. Additionally, the first bonding scheme includes a first third bonding point B3 (dot), wherein the conductive warp 31 is raised above a non-conductive weft 34a. Preferably, the first third bonding point B3 is adjacent to the single first bonding point B1 of the first segment 35a.

[0112] Furthermore, the first bonding scheme includes another third bonding point B3 (fine point), in which the conductive meridian 31 is raised above a non-conductive parallel 34e, while the conductive meridian 31 is lowered below another non-conductive parallel 34b-34d and 34f in the corresponding bonding point B4 (sparse point).

[0113] In the remaining junction B5 (zigzag patterning), non-conductive warps can be raised or lowered to reproduce the desired aesthetic design on the patterned surface 10.

[0114] Figure 3c The second bonding scheme shown includes a single first bonding point B1 (solid black), in which the conductive warp 31 is lowered below the weft 33, and a second bonding point B2 (solid white) for each non-conductive warp 32, in which the non-conductive warp 32 is raised above the conductive weft 31, as in the first scheme.

[0115] Furthermore, the second bonding scheme includes a single third bonding point B3 (fine point), in which the conductive meridian 31 is raised above a non-conductive parallel 34c, while the conductive meridian 31 is lowered below another non-conductive parallel 34a, 34b and 34d-34f in the corresponding bonding points B4 (sparse points).

[0116] In the remaining junction B5 (zigzag patterning), non-conductive meridians can be raised or lowered to reproduce the desired aesthetic design on the patterned surface 10.

[0117] like Figure 3a As can be perceived, along the meridian W A For the entire length of the fabric 1, every three or four weft threads of the conductive warp 31 are raised above one of the weft threads 34a-34f. In the example discussed, two consecutive raises of the conductive warp 31 are separated by three weft threads 34a-34f, followed by two more consecutive raises of the conductive warp 31 separated by four weft threads 33, 34a-34f, and this sequence is preferably along the warp direction W. A Repeated periodically.

[0118] The applicant has conducted tests to evaluate the electromagnetic shielding properties of fabric samples and comparative fabric samples according to embodiments of the present invention, wherein the comparative fabric samples have characteristics different from those of fabrics according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0119] Specifically, the test includes the steps of irradiating a fabric sample with electromagnetic radiation of known power and measuring the power of the electromagnetic radiation on the other side of the fabric sample. Specifically, the fabric sample is placed above the opening of a box made of a material through which the electromagnetic radiation used in the test cannot pass. Inside the box, a receiver is placed behind the fabric sample, the receiver being configured to measure the power of any electromagnetic radiation inside the box. Finally, an antenna is placed one meter away from the fabric sample, with no obstructions between the antenna and the fabric sample.

[0120] Test 1

[0121] In the first test, a first fabric sample S1 manufactured according to an embodiment of the present invention was used. The first fabric sample S1 comprised conductive yarns made of a mixture of 95% wool fibers and 5% stainless steel fibers. Specifically, both the conductive warp and conductive weft yarns had a fineness of 50 / 2 Nm. Furthermore, the non-conductive warp yarns had a fineness of 60 / 2 Nm, and the non-conductive weft yarns had a fineness of 28 / 2 Nm. The first fabric sample S1 comprised a 3:1 ratio of conductive warp to non-conductive warp yarns and a 2:1 ratio of conductive weft yarns to non-conductive weft yarns.

[0122] like Figure 4a and Figure 4bAs described, the first fabric sample S1 provides a considerable electromagnetic radiation shielding effect, i.e., an attenuation of 20 dB or more for frequencies equal to or higher than 110 MHz. Specifically, in the RF range of 400 MHz to 1 GHz, the average attenuation of electromagnetic radiation is equal to or higher than 40 dB. Furthermore, in the RF range of 1 GHz to 20 GHz, the average attenuation of electromagnetic radiation is in the range of 25 dB to 35 dB.

[0123] This means that, on average, the textile manufactured according to the first fabric sample S1 will have an energy associated with any incident electromagnetic radiation having a frequency range from 110 MHz to 20 GHz that falls within 100-10 4 The attenuation factor decreases within the range. In other words, relative to the frequency range mentioned above, the energy associated with electromagnetic radiation measured downstream of the textile has a value ranging from 1% to 0.01% of the electromagnetic radiation energy upstream of the textile.

[0124] It should be noted that the overall radio frequency range considered (i.e., the range from 110MHz to 20GHz) covers most frequency bands used by wireless communication systems (in particular, this range includes most frequency bands used by standards such as GSM, UMTS, LTE / LTE-A, 5G, and Wi-Fi).

[0125] In particular, Table I shows the attenuation provided by the first fabric sample S1 at frequencies included in the main frequency band used by cellular and WLAN networks.

[0126]

[0127]

[0128] Table I

[0129] Furthermore, the electromagnetic shielding properties of the first fabric sample S1 have been tested at higher frequencies (e.g., frequencies used in 5G networks), and the results are defined in Table II below:

[0130] Frequency [GHz] Attenuation [dB] 24 16.5 28 18.1 32 18.7 36 31.5 40 17.5

[0131] Table II

[0132] As is evident from the above, the first fabric sample S1 also provides significant attenuation (i.e., attenuation by a factor of at least 50) relative to electromagnetic radiation generated by devices operating in the frequency range of 20 GHz to 40 GHz (i.e., the millimeter wave wavelength used by 5G).

[0133] In summary, the textile made from the first fabric sample S1 according to the invention is capable of attenuating the energy associated with electromagnetic radiation in the frequency band (from 110MHz to 40GHz) used by the wireless communication system to a negligible level (at least less than 3%), thereby preventing harmful levels of energy from reaching the body covered by the textile or preventing useful wireless communication between opposite sides of the textile.

[0134] Comparison Test 1

[0135] The second fabric sample S2 comprises conductive yarns made of a mixture of 98% wool fibers and 2% steel fibers. Specifically, both the conductive warp and weft yarns have a fineness of 50 / 2 Nm. Furthermore, the non-conductive warp yarns have a fineness of 60 / 2 Nm, and the non-conductive weft yarns have a fineness of 28 / 2 Nm. The second fabric sample S2 comprises a 9:1 ratio of conductive warp to non-conductive warp yarns and a 7:1 ratio of conductive weft yarns to non-conductive weft yarns.

[0136] In other words, the ratio of non-conductive / conductive materials used in the conductive threads for weaving the second fabric sample S2 is lower than the minimum ratio according to the invention.

[0137] like Figure 5a and Figure 5b As shown, the second fabric sample S2 provides significantly lower electromagnetic radiation shielding performance compared to the first fabric sample S1.

[0138] Specifically, the second fabric sample S2 only provides attenuation reaching its highest average value (i.e., approximately 25 dB) in the 700 MHz–1 GHz range. Furthermore, while providing an average attenuation of approximately 25 dB relative to the 1 GHz–5 GHz range, the average attenuation effect shows a decreasing trend relative to the 1 GHz–20 GHz frequency range, rapidly dropping to a significantly lower average value (e.g., between 10 dB and 5 dB) for the 5 GHz–20 GHz frequency range.

[0139] Table III shows the attenuation provided by the second fabric sample S2 at the same frequency considered relative to the first fabric sample S1 in Table I.

[0140] Frequency [MHz] Attenuation [dB] 900 23.0 1800 25.0 2450 26.0 3800 21.0 5000 19.0 10000 11.0 15000 12.0 20000 7.0

[0141] Table III

[0142] The electromagnetic shielding properties of the second fabric sample S2 have also been tested at higher frequencies (e.g., frequencies used by 5G networks), and the results are defined in Table IV below:

[0143]

[0144]

[0145] Table IV

[0146] As can be seen from the above, for all frequency ranges considered, the electromagnetic shielding performance of the second fabric sample S2 is significantly lower than that of the first sample S1.

[0147] Comparison Test 2

[0148] The third fabric sample S3 comprises conductive yarns made from a mixture of 51% cotton-viscose (CV) fibers, 25% wool fibers, 17% cellulose-derived fibers (e.g., fibers commercially known as Tencel), and 6% steel fibers. Specifically, both the conductive warp and weft yarns have a fineness of 50 / 2 Nm. Furthermore, the non-conductive warp yarns have a fineness of 70 / 2 Nm, and the non-conductive weft yarns have a fineness of 50 / 2 Nm. The third fabric sample S3 comprises a 5:1 ratio of conductive warp to non-conductive warp yarns and a 5:1 ratio of conductive weft yarns to non-conductive weft yarns. The third fabric sample S3 is woven according to the teachings of the prior art (particularly the teachings of CN 105483906).

[0149] like Figure 6a and Figure 6b As shown, the third fabric sample S3 provides significantly lower electromagnetic radiation shielding performance compared to the first sample S1.

[0150] Specifically, the third fabric sample S3 only provides attenuation reaching its highest average value (i.e., about 30 dB) in the range of 300 MHz to 1 GHz. Furthermore, by providing an average attenuation of about 30 dB relative to the range of 1 GHz to 5 GHz, the average attenuation effect shows a decreasing trend relative to the frequency from 1 GHz to 20 GHz, which drops to below 20 dB and a lower average value for the frequency from 8 GHz to 20 GHz.

[0151] Table V shows the attenuation values ​​provided by the third fabric sample S3 at the same frequency considered relative to the first fabric sample S1 in Table I.

[0152]

[0153]

[0154] Table V

[0155] The electromagnetic shielding properties of the third fabric sample S3 have also been tested at higher frequencies (e.g., frequencies used by 5G networks), and the results are defined in Table VI below:

[0156] Frequency [GHz] Attenuation [dB] 24 18.5 28 16.5 32 12.5 36 11.0 40 10.5

[0157] Table VI

[0158] As can be seen from the above, the electromagnetic shielding performance of the third fabric sample S3 is significantly lower than that of the first fabric sample S1. This mainly applies to the frequency range of 20 GHz to 40 GHz.

[0159] Table VII below shows the attenuation data (in dB) at specific frequencies for the first fabric sample S1 and the third fabric sample S3 woven according to the present invention. As can be readily appreciated by comparing the data in Table VII, the first fabric sample S1 according to the present invention provides generally higher and more uniform electromagnetic shielding characteristics compared to the third fabric sample S3, even though the third fabric sample S3 is made of conductive wires with a higher content of conductive material.

[0160]

[0161] Table VII

[0162] The present invention, as thus conceived, is readily subject to numerous modifications and variations, all of which fall within the scope of the inventive concept characterizing the invention.

[0163] For example, in an embodiment of the invention, the conductive wire is spun from stainless steel fibers with a length ranging from 6 μm to 12 μm, preferably equal to 8 μm. Furthermore, each yarn within the conductive wire is spun with a fineness falling within the range of 8 Nm to 50 Nm.

[0164] In other embodiments of the invention, the thread comprises various textile fibers and / or yarns. In particular, instead of yarns comprising only wool, the conductive and / or non-conductive threads are made of yarns spun from mixtures of wool and polyamide (PA) polymers, cotton, silk, and / or flax.

[0165] While the preferred ratios between conductive and non-conductive warps are 1:3 and 1:9 as described above, this does not preclude the invention from being carried out with conductive and non-conductive warps in different ratios (e.g., 1:2, 1:5, or 1:7).

[0166] In an alternative embodiment (not shown in the figures), it is not prohibited to provide multiple fabric pieces comprising two or more shielding fabric sheets as described above. For example, each fabric sheet of the multiple fabric pieces is stacked on top of other fabric sheets and sewn thereon. Preferably, the fabric sheets are sewn together with their respective shielding surfaces facing inward.

[0167] Other technically equivalent details and materials can be used, and the shape, size, and spacing of various components can be determined or arbitrarily customized as needed.

Claims

1. An electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2； 3), comprising: - a non-conductive woven layer (101) comprising a plurality of non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and a plurality of non-conductive weft threads (24a-b, 34a-f), both the non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and the non-conductive weft threads (24a-b, 34a-f) being made of a non-conductive material; and - a conductive woven layer (111) comprising a plurality of conductive warp threads (21; 31) and a plurality of conductive weft threads (23; 33), both the conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the conductive weft threads (23; 33) being at least partially made of a conductive material; wherein the non-conductive woven layer (101) defines a patterned surface (10) of the fabric (1; 2; 3) and the conductive woven layer (111) defines a grid-like structure (11), the non-conductive woven layer (101) and the conductive woven layer (111) being interwoven together; wherein the fabric (1; 2; 3) comprises a plurality of segments (25a-b; 35a-b) arranged adjacent to each other in the warp and / or weft direction, each segment (25a-b; 35a-b) comprising at least one set of non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and one conductive warp thread (21; 31), and at least one set of non-conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f) and one conductive weft thread (23; 33); wherein the set of non-conductive warp threads (22, 32) comprises at least two non-conductive threads, and the set of non-conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-e) comprises at least one non-conductive thread; and characterized in that: on the patterned surface (10) of the fabric, each segment (25a-b; 35a-b) further comprises: - a first binding point (Bl) in which the conductive warp thread (21; 31) is lowered below the conductive weft thread (23; 33); and - a second binding point (B2) for each non-conductive thread of the set of non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) in which the non-conductive warp thread (22; 32) is raised above the conductive weft thread (23; 33); and the segments (25a-b; 35a-b) alternating along the warp and / or weft direction comprise: - a third binding point (B3) in which the conductive warp thread (21; 31) is raised above at least one non-conductive weft thread (24a; 34a) of the set of non-conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f), the third binding point (B3) being adjacent to the first binding point (Bl) in which the conductive warp thread (21; 31) is lowered below the conductive weft thread (23; 33).

2. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 1, characterized in that, the set of non-conductive warp threads (22) comprises three non-conductive warp threads; and wherein the alternating segments (25a-b; 35a-b) along the warp and / or weft direction comprise a single third binding point (B3) in which the conductive warp thread (21) is raised above the at least one non-conductive weft thread (24a).

3. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 1, characterized in that, the set of non-conductive weft threads (34a-f) comprises at least four non-conductive weft threads; and wherein each section (25a-b; 35a-b) comprises at least one further third binding point (B3) in which a conductive warp thread (31) is raised above at least one non-conductive weft thread (34c, 34e), each further third binding point (B3) being spaced apart from a previous third binding point (B3) by at least three non-conductive weft threads (34a-f) along the warp direction.

4. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each first binding point (B1) is spaced apart from a first binding point (B1) of another section (25a-b; 35a-b) by a distance ranging from 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm in the weft direction and / or in the warp direction.

5. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Each section (25a-b; 35a-b) comprises conductive warp threads (21; 31) and non-conductive warp threads (22, 32) in a ratio selected from 1:3, 1:5, 1:7 and 1:

9.

6. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the conductive weft threads (23; 33) are made of yarns obtained by spinning metal fibers with natural fibers in a ratio ranging from 5% to 50% of natural fibers.

7. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the conductive weft threads (23; 33) have a yarn count ranging from 12.5 g / km to 125 g / km.

8. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the conductive weft threads (23; 33) are made of yarns having a fineness ranging from 8 m / g to 50 m / g.

9. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) are made of wool and each non-conductive warp thread (22; 32) comprises two yarns having a fineness equal to 60 m / g, the non-conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f) are made of wool and each non-conductive weft thread (24a-b; 34a-f) comprises two yarns having a fineness equal to 28 m / g.

10. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 4, characterized in that, Each first binding point (B1) is spaced apart from a first binding point (B1) of another section (25a-b; 35a-b) by a distance equal to 2 mm.

11. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The metal fibers are stainless steel fibers.

12. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The natural fibers are wool fibers.

13. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The ratio of the natural fibers is 20% of the metal fibers.

14. The electromagnetic shielded fabric (1; 2; 3) according to claim 8, characterized in that, Each of the conductive warp threads (21; 31) and each of the conductive weft threads (23; 33) comprises two yarns having a fineness equal to 50 m / g.

15. A multi-layer fabric, characterized by comprising at least two pieces of fabric (1; 2; 3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two pieces of fabric (1; 2; 3) are sewn together.

16. A method of manufacturing an electromagnetic shielding fabric (1; 2; 3) comprising: - a non-conductive woven layer (101) comprising a plurality of non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and a plurality of non-conductive weft threads (24a-b, 34a-f), both the non-conductive warp threads (22; 32) and the non-conductive weft threads (24a-b, 34a-f) being made of a non-conductive material; and - a conductive woven layer (102) comprising a plurality of conductive warp threads (21; 31) and a plurality of conductive weft threads (23; 33), both the conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the conductive weft threads (23; 33) being made of a conductive material. - an electrically conductive woven layer (111) comprising a plurality of electrically conductive warp threads (21; 31) and a plurality of electrically conductive weft threads (23; 33), both the electrically conductive warp threads (21; 31) and the electrically conductive weft threads (23; 33) being at least partially made of an electrically conductive material; wherein the non-electrically conductive woven layer (101) defines a patterned surface (10) of the fabric (1; 2; 3) and the electrically conductive woven layer (111) defines a grid-like structure (11), the non-electrically conductive woven layer (101) and the electrically conductive woven layer (111) being interwoven together; the method comprising the step of weaving the fabric (1; 2; 3) by defining a plurality of segments (25a-b; 35a-b) arranged adjacent to each other in the warp and / or weft direction, each segment (25a-b; 35a-b) comprising at least one set of non-electrically conductive warp threads (22; 32) and one electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31), and at least one set of non-electrically conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f) and one electrically conductive weft thread (23; 33); wherein the set of non-electrically conductive warp threads (22, 32) comprises at least two non-electrically conductive threads and the set of non-electrically conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-e) comprises at least one non-electrically conductive thread; characterized in that: the step of weaving the fabric (1; 2; 3) by defining a plurality of segments (25a-b; 35a-b) comprises: - lowering the electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31) below the electrically conductive weft thread (23; 33) at a first binding point (Bl); and - lifting each non-electrically conductive thread of the set of non-electrically conductive warp threads (22; 32) above the electrically conductive weft thread (23; 33) at a respective second binding point (B2); and, in the alternating segments (25a-b; 35a-b) along the warp and / or weft direction: - lifting the electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31) above at least one non-electrically conductive weft thread (24a; 34a) of the set of non-electrically conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f) at a third binding point (B3), the third binding point (B3) being woven adjacent to the first binding point (Bl).

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, the set of non-electrically conductive warp threads (22) comprises three non-electrically conductive warp threads; and wherein lifting the electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31) above at least one non-electrically conductive weft thread (24a; 34a) of the set of non-electrically conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f) at the third binding point (B3) comprises lifting the electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31) in a single third binding point (B3) in each segment (25a-b; 35a-b).

18. The method of claim 16, wherein, the set of non-electrically conductive weft threads (34a-f) comprises at least four non-electrically conductive weft threads; and wherein lifting the electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31) above at least one non-electrically conductive weft thread (24a; 34a) of the set of non-electrically conductive weft threads (24a-b; 34a-f) at the third binding point (B3) comprises lifting the electrically conductive warp thread (21; 31) above a plurality of non-electrically conductive weft threads (24a; 34a) at respective third binding points (B3), each third binding point (B3) being spaced apart from a preceding third binding point (B3) along the warp direction by at least three non-electrically conductive weft threads (34a-f).

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