Skin material

Abstract

The present invention provides a surface material for use in seats of vehicles, furniture, and the like, as well as in vehicle interior materials. The surface material exhibits a superior appearance with a sense of depth through the insertion of woven pattern yarns, and also suppresses the pattern yarns from pulling out and fuzzing even when rubbed against the surface by hard protrusions such as hooks of a Velcro fastener. The surface material of the present invention comprises a three-dimensional knitted fabric comprising two layers of knitted fabric, namely, a surface layer and a back layer, and a connecting layer formed of connecting yarns connecting the two layers of knitted fabric. The knitted fabric of the surface layer has an opening, into which the pattern yarns are inserted and woven.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to skin materials. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, three-dimensional woven fabrics consisting of two layers of knitted fabric and connecting yarns connecting the two layers of knitted fabrics have cushioning properties in the thickness direction by using monofilaments for the connecting yarns. Furthermore, by setting the knitted fabrics on the front and back sides to a mesh structure, high breathability is ensured. As a cool and highly anti-stuffy cushioning material, it has been widely used in seats, bedding, and other applications.

[0003] On the other hand, when three-dimensional woven fabrics are used as surface materials for seats of vehicles, furniture, etc., interior materials of vehicles, etc., the surface knitted fabric of the three-dimensional woven fabric is required to have good appearance, and the following scheme has been proposed: by giving the surface knitted fabric various mesh shapes and various ridge shapes to give it a morphological appearance, or by weaving inserted yarns into the surface knitted fabric to change the ridge shape and mesh shape, thereby stabilizing the shape.

[0004] For example, the following patent document 1 discloses a ridge-like three-dimensional knitted fabric. When a ridge-like appearance is imparted to the knitted fabric on the surface layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, the knitting is performed as follows, so that the ridge portion does not become skewed, and the ridge portion does not shift in the direction of the coil horizontal row, and the scratch resistance is good. The knitting method is as follows: an insertion wire arranged at a ratio of one wire for a row of ridge portions is inserted into the end portion of the ridge portion in a knitted and locked manner for each coil horizontal row with a predetermined lateral shift width. In at least a part of the coil horizontal rows, the insertion wire is inserted into two adjacent rows of ridge portions in a bridge-like manner and knitted and locked at the outer two ends of the two ridge portions, thereby bundling the coil rows constituting the ridge portion.

[0005] The following patent document 2 discloses a three-dimensional knitted fabric with a warp ridge structure, wherein the structure of the ridge portion of the surface knitted fabric is composed of a chain structure and an insert structure, and the chain structure is woven from at least two warp yarns supplied from two different sets of reeds. At each location between adjacent warp ridges, the warp yarns of one reed weaving the chain structure form a splice structure with the warp ridge adjacent to the warp yarn on the right, and the warp yarns of the other reed form a splice structure with the warp ridge adjacent to the warp yarn on the left. The structure of the warp ridge portion does not become rope-like, and the coil rows are arranged regularly and neatly, maintaining a beautiful appearance, and no breakage occurs during sewing.

[0006] Patent Document 3 below discloses a three-dimensional knitted fabric in which floating yarns are fixed to the ground fabric surface by inserting a knitting clip. The fabric is knitted so that the ratio of the suspended portion of the floating yarns on the ground fabric surface is 20 to 70%, thereby maintaining air permeability and providing an excellent surface feel.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-255508

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-232109

[0011] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-126884 Summary of the Invention

[0012] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0013] However, in the three-dimensional knitted fabric of Patent Document 1, the inserted yarn is used to bundle the rows of loops forming the ridge portion and the two adjacent rows of ridge portions to prevent the ridge portion from skewing or shifting, and does not contribute to improving the appearance of the surface knitted fabric. It does not take into account the appearance with a sense of depth based on the pattern yarn inserted yarn and the durability of the pattern yarn, such as pilling resistance and pull-out resistance.

[0014] In the three-dimensional knitted fabric of Patent Document 2, similarly, the inserted yarn is used for binding without tightening the chain structure of the warp ridge portion into a rope shape, which does not contribute to improving the appearance of the surface knitted fabric, and does not take into account the appearance with a sense of depth based on the inserted pattern yarn and the durability of the pattern yarn, such as pilling resistance and pull-out resistance.

[0015] In addition, in the three-dimensional knitted fabric of Patent Document 3, although floating yarns are inserted into the knitted fabric of the surface layer, the floating yarns are suspended on the surface of the three-dimensional knitted fabric. Therefore, the durability of the pattern yarns, such as resistance to fuzzing, is poor, and the appearance with a sense of depth is not presented.

[0016] In view of the above level of the prior art, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to solve the problems of the above-mentioned prior art and provide a surface material, which is a surface material for seats of vehicles, furniture, etc., interior materials of vehicles, etc., and presents a better appearance with a sense of depth by inserting woven patterned yarns, and even if the surface is rubbed by hard protrusions such as the hooks of Velcro, the extraction and pilling of the patterned yarns can be suppressed.

[0017] Solutions for solving problems

[0018] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the inventors conducted in-depth research and repeated experiments, and unexpectedly discovered a surface material composed of a three-dimensional woven fabric. The three-dimensional woven fabric includes two layers of knitted fabric, a surface layer and an inner layer, and a connecting layer formed by connecting yarns that connect the two layers of knitted fabric to each other. By inserting woven pattern yarns into the openings of the knitted fabric on the surface layer of the three-dimensional woven fabric, the above-mentioned problems can be solved, thereby completing the present invention.

[0019] That is, the present invention is as follows.

[0020] [1] A surface material composed of a three-dimensional knitted fabric, the three-dimensional knitted fabric comprising a surface layer and an inner layer of two-layer knitted fabrics and a connecting layer formed by connecting yarns connecting the two-layer knitted fabrics to each other, characterized in that the knitted fabric of the surface layer has an opening portion, and a pattern yarn is inserted into the opening portion.

[0021] [2] The surface material according to [1], wherein the length A of the effect yarn seen from the opening is greater than or equal to 0.50 mm and less than or equal to 2.50 mm when viewed from the surface side of the knitted fabric of the surface layer.

[0022] [3] The surface material according to [1] or [2], wherein the difference (ΔH) between the average value of the heights of the two coils holding the two ends of the pattern yarn seen from the opening when observing the surface knitted fabric from the surface side and the height of the pattern yarn is greater than 0.10 mm.

[0023] [4] The surface material according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the value ΔH / A obtained by dividing the difference ΔH between the average value of the heights of the two coils holding the two ends of the pattern wire seen from the opening and the height of the pattern wire by the length A of the pattern wire seen from the opening is greater than 0.02.

[0024] [5] The surface material according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the knitted fabric of the surface layer has a mesh structure, and the openings are mesh openings.

[0025] [6] The surface material according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the knitted fabric of the surface layer has a ridge structure, and the opening is a concave portion formed between adjacent convex ridges.

[0026] [7] The surface material according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer is 11,000 or more and 21,000 or less.

[0027] [8] The surface material according to [7], wherein the stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer is 11,500 or more and 20,000 or less.

[0028] [9] The surface material according to [8], wherein the stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer is 13,000 or more and 19,000 or less.

[0029]

[10] The surface material according to [9], wherein the stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer is 14,000 or more and 19,000 or less.

[0030]

[11] The surface material according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side to the surface layer is 40 cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

[0031]

[12] The skin material according to

[11] , wherein the air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side to the surface layer is 50cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

[0032]

[13] The skin material according to

[11] , wherein the air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side to the surface layer is 60cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

[0033] Effects of the Invention

[0034] In the surface material formed by two layers of three-dimensional woven fabrics of the present invention, a better appearance with a sense of depth is presented by inserting woven patterned yarns into the knitted fabric of the surface layer, and even if the surface is rubbed by hard protrusions such as the hooks of the Velcro, the extraction and pilling of the patterned yarns can be suppressed, and better coolness and anti-stuffiness can be achieved when sitting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the present invention in which a pattern yarn is inserted and knitted into a knitted fabric having a mesh structure on the surface layer.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the present invention in which a pattern yarn is inserted and knitted into a knitted fabric with a ridge structure on the surface layer.

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the present invention in which pattern yarns are inserted and knitted into different mesh openings of a knitted fabric having a mesh structure on the surface layer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0039] An embodiment of the present invention (also referred to as the present embodiment) is a surface material composed of a three-dimensional woven fabric, which includes two layers of knitted fabric, namely a surface layer and an inner layer, and a connecting layer formed by connecting yarns that connect the two layers of knitted fabrics to each other, and is characterized in that the knitted fabric of the surface layer has an opening portion, and a patterned yarn is inserted into the opening portion.

[0040] The surface material of this embodiment comprises a three-dimensional knitted fabric, which is composed of two layers of knitted fabric and a connecting yarn connecting the two layers of knitted fabric. The three-dimensional knitted fabric is knitted by a double-faced Raschel warp knitting machine, and the knitting machine gauge is preferably 18 to 28.

[0041] The knitted fabric constituting the surface layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric of the surface material of this embodiment has openings. The openings referred to in this embodiment are gaps formed in the longitudinally connected rows of stitches in the knitted fabric forming the surface layer, whereby adjacent stitches are spaced apart by a gap of 0.50 mm or more in the course direction (transverse direction) in some or all of the courses. These openings may be roughly diamond-shaped, roughly quadrilateral, roughly circular, or roughly linear. The knitted fabric of the surface layer can have such openings by, for example, having a mesh structure or a ridge structure.

[0042] In order to make the surface knitted fabric into a mesh structure or a ridge structure, any warp knitting structure can be used. In the case of forming a mesh structure, it is preferred to form a mesh structure with a needle drop arrangement such as 1 in 1 out, 2 in 2 out, etc. when using at least two reeds of a knitting machine and supplying yarn by a guide rod. In addition, in the case of forming a ridge structure, when using at least two reeds of a knitting machine and supplying yarn by a guide rod, it is set to a needle drop arrangement such as 1 in 1 out, 2 in 2 out, etc., and by utilizing the movement of the two guide rods, the sinker arcs of at least two or more rows of coils connected in the length direction (longitudinal direction) of the knitted fabric supplied by the two guide rods are appropriately set to a state of being pulled in opposite directions to the left and right, so that the coil rows are brought close to form a convex ridge structure. This method is preferred from the perspective of the morphological stability of the convex ridge portion. At this time, from the perspective of stabilizing the morphology of the convex ridge portion and the pattern yarn and suppressing the generation of fuzz on the surface, it is preferred that the sinker arcs are connected to at least 3 horizontal rows of coils across adjacent convex ridge portions at one time. Figure 2 ] shows an example in which the convex ridge portion is formed by four rows of stitches. Figure 2 The following state is shown: the sinker loops 13 and 18 and the sinker loops 11 and 16 pull the left and right two stitch rows of the four stitch rows of the convex ridge portion 7 in opposite directions, bringing the stitch rows closer together to form a convex ridge structure.

[0043] The mesh structure or ridge structure does not necessarily need to be the same in all courses of the knitted fabric, but may be a structure composed of a combination of different knitting structures in some courses.

[0044] The three-dimensional knitted fabric constituting the surface material of this embodiment has pattern yarns inserted and knitted into the openings of the surface knitted fabric. If the surface knitted fabric has a mesh or ridge structure, the pattern yarns are inserted and knitted into the recessed portions of the mesh openings or the gaps between adjacent convex ridges. The pattern yarns are inserted and knitted across the openings at any angle, generally longitudinally, generally transversely, or generally obliquely, when viewed from the front side of the surface knitted fabric.

[0045] An example of a state where a patterned yarn is inserted into the mesh opening is shown in FIG. Figure 1 .exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, when viewed from the surface side of the surface knitted fabric, the pattern yarn 3 is inserted and woven from one coil 4 facing one mesh opening 2 across the opening in a substantially oblique direction to another coil 5 facing the same mesh opening. In this way, the pattern yarn 3 is preferably inserted and woven in a manner held by the coils (coil 4 and coil 5) facing the same opening, but it can also be as follows Figure 3 As shown, the pattern yarn 3 is inserted and knitted so as to be held by the loops (the loop 4 and the loop 5 ) facing different openings 2 .

[0046] An example of a state in which a pattern yarn is inserted and woven into a concave portion between gaps between adjacent convex ridges is shown in FIG. Figure 2 .exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, when viewed from the front side of the surface knitted fabric, the pattern yarn 3 is inserted and knitted from one stitch 9 facing the recessed portion 8 in the row of stitches forming the convex ridge 7, crossing the recessed portion 8 in a substantially oblique direction, to another stitch 10 facing the same recessed portion. In this manner, the pattern yarn 3 is preferably inserted and knitted so as to be held by the stitches included in the adjacent convex portions 7 across the recessed portion 8, but may also be inserted and knitted so as to be held by the stitches in the same convex portion 7.

[0047] When observing from the surface side of the knitted fabric, Figure 2 As shown, the pattern yarn 3 inserted into the weaving is located on the lower side of a coil 9 and another coil 10 inserted into the weaving, and the pattern yarn is held in the form of being sandwiched between the coil and the sinker loop through the sinker loops of the coil and the other coil located further below the pattern yarn 3 and / or through the sinker loops 11, 12, 13, 14, etc. of other coils in the same horizontal row of coils.

[0048] In this embodiment, the pattern yarn refers to a fiber that is different from the fiber of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer in terms of appearance such as color, shape, and luster, and improves the appearance through the appearance difference from the fiber of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer. The pattern yarn can have different appearances in terms of color, shape, luster, etc. at the stage of the greige fabric of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, or the appearance can change in terms of color, shape, luster, etc. at the post-processing stage. The pattern yarn preferably has a different color from the fiber of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer. In terms of improving the appearance, more preferably, a pattern yarn with a different color having a sense of depth can be seen from below the fiber of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer.

[0049] When inserting the pattern yarn into the opening of the knitted fabric on the surface layer, it can be inserted into any wale and any course. In order to prevent the pattern yarn from being pulled out due to protrusions or the like, the pattern yarn is preferably inserted once in at least 4 courses and held in such a way that it is sandwiched between two or more loops on the same course and the sinker loop of the loop. In addition, the pattern yarn can also be knitted (Japanese: ニット編み) in such a way that it partially forms loops while being inserted and knitted.

[0050] In this embodiment, when observing from the front side of the knitted fabric on the surface layer, the length of the pattern yarn seen from the opening of the knitted fabric on the surface layer (for example Figures 1 to 3 shown as A) is preferably 0.50 mm or more and 2.50 mm or less, more preferably 0.50 mm or more and 2.30 mm or less. If the length of the pattern yarn is less than 0.50 mm, the effect of improving the appearance is reduced. On the other hand, if the length of the pattern yarn exceeds 2.50 mm, it is difficult to prevent the pattern yarn from being pulled out or fluffed when rubbed on the surface by hard protrusions such as the hooks of the hook-and-loop fastener.

[0051] In the skin material of this embodiment, the loop density of the knitted fabric on the surface layer is preferably 11,000 or more and 21,000 or less, more preferably 11,500 or more and 20,000 or less, further preferably 13,000 or more and 19,000 or less, and most preferably 14,000 or more and 19,000 or less.

[0052] In this specification, the term "loop density" is an index representing the dense state of the loops of the knitted fabric on the surface layer shown by the following formula:

[0053] Loop density

[0054] {In the formula, N is the number of loops of the knitted fabric on the surface layer per 2.54 cm square (pieces), and D is the total fineness (dtex) of the fiber of one loop of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer.}

[0055] Furthermore, the "total fineness of the fibers forming a single loop of the surface knitted fabric" refers to the total fineness of the fibers forming only the loops, excluding the fineness of the connecting yarns and fibers not forming loops, such as those formed by insert knitting. A loop density of 11,000 or higher prevents hard protrusions, such as hooks, from snagging the single fibers of the surface loops, thereby reducing the risk of fuzzing caused by single fiber cuts. Furthermore, the insert knitted pattern yarns are less likely to slip between the loops and sinker loops, making them less likely to be pulled out by protrusions, such as hooks, of the surface knitted fabric. On the other hand, a loop density of 21,000 or lower ensures sufficient breathability in the surface knitted fabric, enabling heat and moisture transfer through air convection, improving the feeling of coolness and warmth when sitting. In order to set the stitch density to 11,000 or more and 21,000 or less, it is preferable to adjust the fineness of the fibers used in the surface knitted fabric, the gauge of the knitting machine, the rows of stitches on the machine, the knitting structure, the shrinkage rate, the stretching rate, the overfeed rate, the underfeed rate, etc. in finishing processes such as heat setting.

[0056] The raw materials of the fibers used in the surface knitted fabric and pattern yarns are not limited. They can be a single raw material or a combination of multiple raw materials through blending, twisting, blending, or interweaving. However, from the perspective of raw yarn strength and light resistance, long-fiber polyethylene terephthalate fibers are preferably used. Furthermore, from the perspective of increasing the pull-out resistance of the single fibers and preventing the single fibers on the surface of the knitted fabric and the single fibers of the pattern yarn from being pulled out by projections such as hooks on the Velcro, the polyethylene terephthalate fibers are preferably false-twisted yarns, interwoven yarns, or twisted yarns.

[0057] The fineness of the fibers used in the knitted fabric of the surface layer is preferably 100 dtex or more and 350 dtex or less to optimize the stitch density. Similarly, the total fineness of a single stitch formed by the fibers forming the knitted fabric of the surface layer is preferably 150 dtex or more and 800 dtex or less. Furthermore, to enhance the visual appeal of the pattern and prevent the "pullout" of the pattern yarn due to protrusions, the fineness of the fibers used in the pattern yarn is preferably at least half the total fineness of the fibers forming a single stitch of the knitted fabric of the surface layer.

[0058] When the fibers and pattern yarns used in the knitted fabric of the surface layer are multifilaments, the single yarn fineness is preferably from 1 dtex to 6 dtex, more preferably from 3 dtex to 6 dtex due to the higher single yarn strength.

[0059] The fiber used in the connecting yarn is preferably a monofilament. When a monofilament is used as the connecting yarn, in order to suppress the protrusion of the monofilament from the surface of the knitted fabric and maintain good cushioning properties, the fineness is preferably 30 dtex or more and 300 dtex or less, more preferably 50 dtex or more and 250 dtex or less.

[0060] If the monofilament protrudes from the surface of the knitted fabric of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, it is easy to be caught by the protrusions such as the hook portion of the hook and loop fastener. Therefore, it is preferable to press the loops of the fibers of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer into the loops of the monofilament so that the monofilament does not protrude from the surface side of the knitted fabric of the surface layer. To this end, the monofilament fineness D2 (dtex) is preferably such that it satisfies the following relationship with respect to the total fineness D (dtex) of one loop formed by the fibers of the knitted fabric forming the surface layer:

[0061] D / D2≥3.

[0062] In the three-dimensional knitted fabric constituting the surface material of the present embodiment, in order to suppress the extraction and fuzzing of the pattern yarn when the surface is rubbed by hard protrusions such as the hooks of the Velcro, the height difference ΔH (mm) between the average value H1 (mm) of the height of the two coils holding the two ends of the pattern yarn seen from the opening when observed from the surface side of the surface knitted fabric and the height H2 (mm) of the pattern yarn is preferably greater than 0.10 mm, and in order to impart an appearance with a sense of depth, the height difference ΔH is more preferably greater than 0.20 mm, and further preferably greater than 0.30 mm.

[0063] For example, the average value H1 of the height of the two coils holding the two ends of the pattern wire is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, within the entire area of ​​the pattern yarn viewed through the opening, at the two points with the longest linear distance between the surface of the pattern yarn contacting stitch 4 and the surface of the pattern yarn contacting stitch 5 (the two points that determine the length of the pattern yarn), straight lines L1 and L2 are drawn along the course direction (transverse direction) of the stitches. The average value H1 is calculated by averaging the highest height of stitch 4 on straight line L1 and the highest height of stitch 5 on straight line L2. The pattern yarn height H2 (mm) is the highest height of the pattern yarn on straight line L3 drawn from the center point (position A / 2) of the pattern yarn length A (mm) at a right angle to the line of length A.

[0064] Furthermore, the value obtained by dividing ΔH by A (ΔH / A) has a high correlation with the drawing out and fuzzing of the pattern yarns. To suppress the drawing out and fuzzing of the pattern yarns, ΔH / A is preferably 0.02 or greater, more preferably 0.04 or greater, further preferably 0.15 or greater, and particularly preferably 0.20 or greater.

[0065] In order to improve cooling and stuffiness prevention by transferring heat and moisture from the human body when sitting, the surface material of this embodiment preferably has an air permeability of 40cc / cm2 from the connecting layer (hereinafter referred to as the "connecting layer") between the front and back layers of the three-dimensional knitted fabric toward the surface layer of the knitted fabric. 2 / sec or more, more preferably 50cc / cm 2 / sec or more, more preferably 60cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

[0066] In this specification, the term "air permeability through the surface knitted fabric from the connecting layer between the front and back knitted fabrics of a three-dimensional knitted fabric" refers to the air permeability of a three-dimensional knitted fabric measured under the suction conditions of JIS L1096 Air Permeability Test Method (Method A). A test piece of the three-dimensional knitted fabric is formed into a 15 cm square and placed in the opening of an air permeability tester with the surface knitted fabric facing downward. A 3 mm thick, 20 cm square silicone rubber sheet is superimposed on the outer side of the inner knitted fabric. This blocks air from passing through the inner knitted fabric, and the air enters from the cross-section of the four sides of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, passes through the connecting layer, and then passes through the surface knitted fabric.

[0067] In order to improve the air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the surface layer, it is particularly effective to reduce the pressure loss when air passes through the connecting layer. To this end, it is preferable to reduce the number of connecting yarns forming the connecting layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric relative to the number of stitches in the knitted fabric of the surface layer. Considering this point of view, in this embodiment, it is preferable that the number of stitches of the connecting yarns woven into the knitted fabric of the surface layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric is greater than 1 / 4 and less than 1 / 2 of the total number of stitches in the knitted fabric of the surface layer. The total number of stitches in the knitted fabric of the surface layer refers to the number of stitches within a 2.54 cm square of the knitted fabric on the surface side, and is calculated by multiplying the number of stitches in the course / 2.54 cm by the number of stitches in the wale / 2.54 cm.

[0068] In addition, the air permeability of the three-dimensional knitted fabric from the inner layer of the knitted fabric to the outer layer of the knitted fabric is preferably 50cc / cm 2 / sec or more, more preferably 60cc / cm 2 / sec or more, more preferably 80cc / cm 2 / sec or more. The air permeability of the inner layer knitted fabric through the outer layer knitted fabric is set to 50cc / cm 2 / sec or more, and is therefore more suitable as a seat surface material used in combination with a cushioning member that incorporates a ventilation system.

[0069] The fibers that make up the three-dimensional knitted fabric can be made of any raw material, and various fiber raw materials can be combined. It is preferred that the surface knitted fabric, pattern yarns, binding yarns, and back knitted fabric all be made of 100% polyethylene terephthalate fiber, considering ease of recycling, such as material recycling and chemical recycling. These fibers can be undyed, but spun-dyed or spun-dyed yarns are preferred to minimize fluctuations in the properties of the three-dimensional knitted fabric during dyeing. Furthermore, spun-dyed yarns knitted with pigments are more preferred, as they eliminate the need for a dyeing step. In this case, variegated yarns, obtained by combining two or more spun-dyed yarns through blending or other methods, are preferred for enhanced aesthetic appeal.

[0070] The thickness of the three-dimensional knitted fabric constituting the surface material of this embodiment can be arbitrarily set, but is preferably 2.5 mm to 12 mm, more preferably 3 mm to 8 mm, from the viewpoint of sewing properties and handling properties as the surface material.

[0071] The weight per unit area of ​​the three-dimensional knitted fabric constituting the skin material of this embodiment can be set arbitrarily, but is preferably 400 to 1000 g / m 2 , more preferably 400 to 900 g / m 2 .

[0072] Regarding the finishing method of the three-dimensional knitted fabric constituting the surface material of this embodiment, in the case of a three-dimensional knitted fabric using spun-dyed yarn or solution-dyed yarn, the grey fabric can be finished through processes such as scouring and heat setting. However, from the perspective of process simplification, finishing by heat setting alone is more preferred. In the case of a three-dimensional knitted fabric in which any of the fibers used for the knitted fabric, pattern yarn, or connecting yarn of the front and back layers are uncolored, the grey fabric can be finished through processes such as presetting, scouring, dyeing, and heat setting.

[0073] The surface material of this embodiment is used for seats, automobile interior materials, and the like. Polyurethane may be laminated on the back surface like conventional surface materials, but it is preferable to use it without lamination from the perspective of recyclability.

[0074] Example

[0075] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to Examples and Comparative Examples, but the present invention is not limited to these Examples.

[0076] The methods for measuring various physical properties of the three-dimensional knitted fabrics used in the following examples and the like are as follows.

[0077] (a) Length of the pattern wire seen from the opening (A) (mm)

[0078] Using a KEYENCE CORPORATION ONESHOT 3D measurement microscope VR-3000, the outer surface of the knitted fabric, the surface layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, was automatically focused at 25x to 38x magnification and photographed for 3D measurement. In the captured 3D image, the length of the pattern yarn as seen from the opening was measured. At this time, the length of the pattern yarn A (mm) is defined as the distance between the two points with the longest straight-line distance between the pattern yarn and the contact surfaces of the two coils holding the pattern yarn within the entire area of ​​the pattern yarn as seen from the opening. For example, if the pattern yarn appears to be roughly trapezoidal in shape, the distance is defined as the distance connecting the corners of the trapezoid's base. If the pattern yarn appears to be roughly diamond-shaped, the distance is defined as the distance connecting the corners on the longest diagonal line.

[0079] (b) Loop density of the surface knitted fabric

[0080] Yarn was extracted from the surface layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric, and the total fineness D (dtex) of the fibers forming one stitch of the surface layer knitted fabric was measured. This excludes binding yarns and pattern yarns. Furthermore, the product N of the number of courses / 2.54 cm and the number of wales / 2.54 cm of the three-dimensional knitted fabric was measured. The stitch density of the surface layer knitted fabric was calculated using the following formula:

[0081] Coil density

[0082] (c) Difference ΔH (mm) between the average value H1 (mm) of the height of the two loops holding both ends of the pattern wire as viewed from the opening and the height H2 (mm) of the pattern wire

[0083] In the measurement (a) above, draw straight lines L1 and L2 parallel to the course direction (transverse direction) passing through the two ends of length A. Measure the highest height of one loop holding the pattern yarn on line L1 and the highest height of the other loop holding the pattern yarn on line L2. The average of these values ​​is defined as H1 (mm). Furthermore, measure the highest height of the pattern yarn on line L3, drawn at a right angle to line A from the center point of the pattern yarn length A (mm) (at position A / 2). ΔH (mm) is calculated as the absolute value of the difference between H1 (mm) and H2 (mm). Perform the measurement at 10 locations, and determine the average value.

[0084] (d) Air permeability from the connecting layer to the surface knitted fabric (cc / cm 2 / sec)

[0085] Using an air permeability tester FX3300 LabAir IV manufactured by TAKAYAMA REED CO., LTD., a 15 cm square three-dimensional knitted fabric test piece was placed in the opening of the air permeability tester with the surface knitted fabric facing downward. A 20 cm square silicone rubber sheet, 3 mm thick, was overlapped on the outer side of the inner knitted fabric. The test head of the air permeability tester was pressed from above and secured with a clamp. Under suction conditions conforming to JIS L1096 Air Permeability Test Method (Method A), the air permeability of the three-dimensional knitted fabric through the connecting layer of the cross-section on all four sides and through the surface knitted fabric was measured.

[0086] (e) Air permeability from the inner layer of the three-dimensional knitted fabric to the outer layer of the knitted fabric (cc / cm 2 / sec)

[0087] The air permeability of the three-dimensional knitted fabric from the back layer to the front layer was measured using an air permeability tester FX3300 LabAir IV manufactured by TAKAYAMA REED CO., LTD. in accordance with JIS L1096 air permeability test method (method A).

[0088] (f) Fuzzing caused by Velcro (level)

[0089] Using a flat abrasion tester manufactured by Daiei Kagaku Seiki Manufacturing Co., Ltd., a three-dimensional woven fabric with a test piece measuring 8 cm wide and 31 cm long was placed on the flat abrasion table of the flat abrasion tester with the surface knitted fabric facing up, and both ends were fixed with clamps. Next, Magic Tape (registered trademark) A8693Y.71 (5 cm long) manufactured by Kuraray Fastening Co., Ltd. was attached to the friction member with the hook side facing outward. Including the friction member, the pressing load was set to 9.8 N, the stroke was set to 14 cm, and the speed was set to 60±10 reciprocating / minute. The friction member was loaded onto the test piece and the wear test was carried out reciprocating 5 times. The test piece was collected from the longitudinal and transverse directions of the three-dimensional woven fabric for measurement. After the test, the fuzzing state of the surface knitted fabric of the test piece was observed and the following grade judgment was performed. Judgment was made in 0.5-level increments.

[0090] Level 5: No fuzzing

[0091] Level 4: Slightly fuzzy

[0092] Level 3: obvious hairiness, but no significant head breakage

[0093] Level 2: Slightly noticeable fuzzing, broken ends, and "pulling out" of the yarn

[0094] Level 1: The hair is noticeable and the appearance is too abnormal

[0095] (g) The “extraction” and fuzzing properties of the patterned yarn caused by the hook and loop fastener (grade)

[0096] After the test (f) above, the drawing out and fuzzing of the single yarn of the pattern yarn alone were observed and the following grade evaluation was performed. The evaluation was performed in 0.5 grade intervals.

[0097] Level 5: No "pulling out" or fuzzing of the monofilament is found

[0098] Level 4: Slight "pulling" or fuzzing of the monofilament is observed

[0099] Level 3: The monofilament is obviously pulled out or fluffed, but there is no broken end.

[0100] Level 2: The "pulling out" or fuzzing of the monofilament is slightly noticeable, and there are broken ends.

[0101] Level 1: The "pulling out" or fuzzing of the monofilament is obvious, and the appearance is too abnormal

[0102] (h) Appearance with a sense of depth

[0103] The knitted fabric of the surface layer of the skin material was visually observed from the front side, and the color pattern was evaluated for a three-dimensional effect of depth using the following rating scale. The evaluation was performed in 0.5-level increments.

[0104] Level 5: Extreme sense of depth

[0105] Level 4: Considerable sense of depth

[0106] Level 3: Slight sense of depth

[0107] Level 2: Almost no depth perception

[0108] Level 1: No sense of depth at all

[0109] (i) Cooling sensation

[0110] The surface material is provided on the polyurethane padding of the seat and back of an automobile seat, and the entire surface of the seat that contacts the human body is formed of the surface material formed of a three-dimensional woven fabric.

[0111] This chair was placed in a temperature and humidity environment of 30°C and 50% RH. After a 30-minute rest period, the examiner sat in the chair for 10 minutes. The examiner rated the coolness sensation 10 minutes later, comparing it to the sensation before sitting. The following rating scale was used to assess the coolness sensation. The ratings were made in 0.5-level increments. Five examiners were asked to calculate the average of their responses.

[0112] Level 5: Feeling extremely hot and uncomfortable

[0113] Level 4: Feeling quite hot

[0114] Level 3: Feeling hot

[0115] Level 2: Feeling slightly hot

[0116] Level 1: Feeling slightly hot, but not a bother

[0117] Level 0: No change

[0118] (j) Stuffy feeling

[0119] As in (i) above, the chair was placed in an environment with a temperature and humidity of 30°C and 50% RH. The examiner remained in this environment for 30 minutes and then sat in the chair for 10 minutes. The examiner was asked to rate the sensation of stuffiness 10 minutes later, relative to the sensation before sitting down. The following rating scale was used to assess the sensation of stuffiness. This rating was determined in 0.5-level increments. Five examiners were asked to calculate the average of their five scores.

[0120] Level 5: Extremely hot and uncomfortable

[0121] Level 4: Very hot and stuffy

[0122] Level 3: Hot and humid

[0123] Level 2: Slightly hot and humid

[0124] Level 1: Slightly hot and stuffy, but not a problem

[0125] Level 0: No change

[0126] [Example 1]

[0127] A double-sided Raschel knitting machine with a gauge of 22 and a needle cylinder spacing of 6 mm equipped with 6 reeds was used. Two false twisted yarns of 167 dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (black solution-dyed yarns) were twisted together by two reeds (L2 and L3) forming the surface knitted fabric. The yarns were fed in a 1-in 1-out (L2) and 1-out 1-in (L3) arrangement. The 167 dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers were twisted together by a reed (L1) inserted into the knitted fabric of the surface layer. Two false-twisted yarns of polyethylene terephthalate fiber (gray solution-dyed yarn) are paralleled and supplied in a 1-in 1-out arrangement, and a single yarn of polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) of 110 dtex is supplied in a 1-in 1-out arrangement from a reed (L4) forming a connecting portion, and further, false-twisted yarn of polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) of 167 dtex 48 filament is supplied in a full-in arrangement from two reeds (L5, L6) forming the inner layer of the knitted fabric.

[0128] The following knitting structure was used, with the number of courses per 2.54 cm and 35 courses per machine. A three-dimensional knitted fabric was knitted, in which the pattern yarn was held by one loop facing the mesh opening and by the loops of the following course. The resulting fabric was dry-heat-set at 175°C for 1 minute at a tentering ratio of 0%, an overfeed ratio of 0%, and a temperature of 175°C. This fabric had the properties shown in Table 1 below and was used as a cover material.

[0129] (Knitted tissue)

[0130] L1: 3333 / 3333 / 4444 / 0000 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0131] L2: 1011 / 2322 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0132] L3: 2322 / 1011 / (1 out, 1 in)

[0133] L4: 3410 / 4367 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0134] L5: 0001 / 1110 / (all in)

[0135] L6: 2234 / 2210 / (all in)

[0136] [Example 2]

[0137] Two false-twisted yarns of 167 dtex 48-filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (gray solution-dyed yarns) were fed in a 1-in 1-out arrangement through a reed (L1) into which the pattern yarns were inserted. The yarns were knitted in the following knitting structure in such a manner that the pattern yarns spanned three mesh openings and were held by one stitch and the stitches of the following third row. A three-dimensional knitted fabric having the various properties shown in Table 1 below was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, and this was used as a surface material.

[0138] (Knitted tissue)

[0139] L1: 3333 / 0000 / 0000 / 0000 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0140] L2: 1011 / 2322 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0141] L3: 2322 / 1011 / (1 out, 1 in)

[0142] L4: 3410 / 4367 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0143] L5: 0001 / 1110 / (all in)

[0144] L6: 2234 / 2210 / (all in)

[0145] [Example 3-Example 4]

[0146] A double-sided Raschel knitting machine with a gauge of 18 and a needle cylinder spacing of 6 mm equipped with 6 reeds was used. Two false-twisted yarns of 334 dtex 72 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (black solution-dyed yarns) were twisted together by two reeds (L2 and L3) forming the surface knitted fabric. The yarns were fed in a 1-in 1-out (L2) and 1-out 1-in (L3) arrangement. The reed (L1) for inserting the knitted fabric with the pattern yarns was used to twist 167 dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers. Two false-twisted yarns of ester fiber (gray solution-dyed yarn) are supplied in a 1-in 1-out arrangement, and a single yarn of 110dtex polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) is supplied from a reed (L4) forming a connecting portion in a 1-in 1-out arrangement. Furthermore, false-twisted yarns of 167dtex 48-filament polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) are supplied from two reeds (L5 and L6) forming the inner layer of the knitted fabric in a full-in arrangement.

[0147] Using the same knitting structure as in Example 1, with the on-machine course count set to 24 courses / 2.54 cm (Example 3) and 27 courses / 2.54 cm (Example 4), a three-dimensional knitted fabric was produced, in which the pattern yarn was held by one loop facing the mesh opening and by the loops of the following course. The resulting fabric was dry-heat-set at 175°C for 1 minute at a tentering ratio of 0%, an overfeed ratio of 0%, and a temperature of 175°C. Three-dimensional knitted fabrics having the properties shown in Table 1 below were obtained and used as cover materials.

[0148] [Example 5]

[0149] A double-faced Raschel knitting machine with a gauge of 18 and a cylinder spacing of 6 mm equipped with 6 reeds was used. Two false-twisted yarns of 334 dtex 72 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (black solution-dyed yarns) were twisted together by two reeds (L2, L3) forming the surface knitted fabric. The yarns were fed in a 2-in 2-out arrangement (L2, L3). A reed (L1) into which the pattern yarns were inserted into the surface knitted fabric was twisted together by two false-twisted yarns of 167 dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (gray solution-dyed yarns). Three false-twisted yarns of polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) are drawn together and supplied in an arrangement of 2 out / 1 in 3 out / 1 in 3 out / ..., and a single yarn of polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) of 110 dtex is supplied in an arrangement of 2 in 2 out from a reed (L4) forming a connecting portion, and further, false-twisted yarn of polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) of 167 dtex 48 filament is supplied in an arrangement of full in from two reeds (L5, L6) forming the knitted fabric of the inner layer.

[0150] The following knitting structure was used, with the number of courses per 2.54 cm, to create a three-dimensional fabric in which the pattern yarn was held by a loop in a concave portion facing an adjacent convex ridge and by a loop in the same course on the opposite side of the concave portion. The resulting fabric was dry-heat-set at 175°C for 1 minute at a tentering ratio of 0%, an overfeed ratio of 0%, and a temperature of 175°C. This fabric had the properties shown in Table 1 below and was used as a cover material.

[0151] (Knitted tissue)

[0152] L1: 0000 / 4444 / (2 out / 1 in 3 out / 1 in 3 out / ...)

[0153] L2: 1011 / 2344 / 6766 / 5433 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0154] L3: 6766 / 5433 / 1011 / 2344 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0155] L4: 1043 / 6734 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0156] L5: 0001 / 1110 / (all in)

[0157] L6: 2234 / 2210 / (all in)

[0158] [Example 6]

[0159] By inserting a reed (L1) into which the pattern yarns are knitted, three false-twisted yarns of 167dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (gray solution-dyed yarns) are fed in an arrangement of 2 out / 1 in 3 out / 1 in 3 out / ..., and knitted according to the knitting structure shown below to form a three-dimensional woven fabric in which the pattern yarns are held by a loop in a concave portion facing an adjacent convex ridge and by a loop in the next third horizontal row of loops on the opposite side with the concave portion interposed therebetween. In addition, a three-dimensional woven fabric having the various physical properties shown in Table 1 below is obtained in the same manner as in Example 5, and is used as a surface material.

[0160] (Knitted tissue)

[0161] L1: 0000 / 2222 / 2222 / 2222 / 4444 / 2222 / 2222 / 2222 / (2 out / 1 in 3 out / 1 in 3 out / ...)

[0162] L2: 1011 / 2344 / 6766 / 5433 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0163] L3: 6766 / 5433 / 1011 / 2344 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0164] L4: 1043 / 6734 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0165] L5: 0001 / 1110 / (all in)

[0166] L6: 2234 / 2210 / (all in)

[0167] [Examples 7 and 8]

[0168] Two false-twisted yarns of 167 dtex 48-filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (gray solution-dyed yarns) were fed in a one-in, one-out arrangement through a reed (L1) into which the pattern yarns were inserted. The yarns were knitted in the following knitting structure with the on-loom courses set to 30 courses / 2.54 cm (Example 7) and 34 courses / 2.54 cm (Example 8). The pattern yarns were held by one loop facing the mesh opening and another loop in the same course. The shrinkage during heat setting was set to 8%. A three-dimensional knitted fabric having the various properties shown in Table 1 below was obtained in the same manner as in Example 3. This fabric was used as a surface material.

[0169] (Knitted tissue)

[0170] L1: 4444 / 0000 / (1 out, 1 in)

[0171] L2: 1011 / 2322 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0172] L3: 2322 / 1011 / (1 out, 1 in)

[0173] L4: 3410 / 4367 / (1 in, 1 out)

[0174] L5: 0001 / 1110 / (all in)

[0175] L6: 2234 / 2210 / (all in)

[0176] [Example 9]

[0177] A three-dimensional knitted fabric having the properties shown in Table 1 below was obtained as a surface material in the same manner as in Example 2 except that the amount of pattern yarn supplied from the reed (L1) was increased by 5% compared to Example 2.

[0178] [Example 10]

[0179] A double-sided Raschel knitting machine with a gauge of 18 and a needle cylinder spacing of 6 mm equipped with 6 reeds was used. Two false-twisted yarns of 334 dtex 72 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers (black solution-dyed yarns) were twisted together by two reeds (L2 and L3) forming the surface knitted fabric. The yarns were fed in a 2-in 2-out (L2) and 2-out 2-in (L3) arrangement. A reed (L1) for inserting the knitted fabric with pattern yarns was used to twist 167 dtex 48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fibers. Three false-twisted yarns of ester fiber (gray solution-dyed yarn) are supplied in a 1-in 3-out arrangement, and a single yarn of 110dtex polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) is supplied from a reed (L4) forming a connecting portion in a 2-in 2-out arrangement. Furthermore, false-twisted yarns of 167dtex 48-filament polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) are supplied from two reeds (L5 and L6) forming the inner layer of the knitted fabric in a full-in arrangement.

[0180] The following knitting structure was used, with the machine stitch count set to 21 courses / 2.54 cm. A three-dimensional knitted fabric was knitted, in which the pattern yarn was held by one loop facing the mesh opening and another loop in the same course. The resulting fabric was dry-heat-set at 175°C for 1 minute at a tentering ratio of 0%, an overfeed ratio of 0%, and a temperature of 175°C. This fabric had the properties shown in Table 1 below and was used as a cover material.

[0181] (Knitted tissue)

[0182] L1: 2222 / 6666 / 2222 / 4444 / 0000 / 4444 / (1 in, 3 out)

[0183] L2: 1011 / 2322 / 1022 / 4544 / 3233 / 4533 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0184] L3: 4544 / 3233 / 4533 / 1011 / 2322 / 1022 / (2 out, 2 in)

[0185] L4: 1023 / 1023 / 1032 / 4532 / 4532 / 4523 / (2 in, 2 out)

[0186] L5: 0001 / 1110 / (all in)

[0187] L6: 2234 / 2210 / (all in)

[0188] [Comparative Example 1]

[0189] By inserting the woven pattern yarn into the reed (L1), two false twisted yarns of 167dtex48 filament polyethylene terephthalate fiber (black solution-dyed yarn) are supplied in a 1-in-1-out arrangement. Except for this, a three-dimensional woven fabric having the various physical properties shown in Table 1 below is obtained in the same manner as in Example 1 and is used as the surface material.

[0190] [Table 1]

[0191]

[0192] As shown in Table 1, for the surface material formed by the three-dimensional knitted fabrics of Examples 1 to 10 in which patterned yarns of a different color from the surface knitted fabric are inserted, compared with Comparative Example 1 in which no woven patterned yarns are inserted, a three-dimensional sense of depth in the color pattern can be obtained, showing a higher appearance, and the "pulling out" of the patterned yarns caused by the Velcro can be suppressed.

[0193] Among the lengths of the pattern yarns, Examples 1 to 8 in which the length A of the pattern yarns is less than 2.50 mm can further suppress the pulling out and fuzzing of the pattern yarns. Among them, Examples 1 to 7 in which the length of the pattern yarns is more than 0.50 mm can obtain a more three-dimensional appearance.

[0194] In Examples 1 to 8 and 10 in which the difference ΔH between the height of the loop holding the pattern yarn and the height of the pattern yarn was 0.10 mm or more, the pulling out and fuzzing of the pattern yarn could be further suppressed.

[0195] In addition, in Example 2 where ΔH / A is 0.04, the extraction and fuzzing of the pattern yarns are slightly improved in the longitudinal direction, and in Examples 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 where ΔH / A is 0.15 or more, the extraction and fuzzing of the pattern yarns can be further suppressed.

[0196] In addition, in Examples 1 to 9 with a coil density of 11,500 or more, there is a tendency that the extraction of the pattern yarn, the fuzziness, and the fuzziness of the surface become better, and in Examples 1 to 7 and 9 to 10 with a coil density of 20,000 or less, there is a tendency that the coolness when sitting and the prevention of stuffiness become better.

[0197] Industrial applicability

[0198] The surface material of the present invention is a surface material that can be arranged on a cushioning member such as a polyurethane pad of a seat of a vehicle, furniture, etc., or can be used for a surface material of an interior material such as a seat formed by being stretched on a chair frame, a roof of a vehicle, a door interior panel, etc. It can be used as a surface material that presents a good appearance with a sense of depth through patterned yarns and can suppress the extraction and pilling of patterned yarns even when the surface is rubbed by hard protrusions such as the hooks of a Velcro.

[0199] Description of Reference Numerals

[0200] 1. Surface mesh knitted fabric; 2. Mesh opening; 3. Pattern yarn; 4. One coil facing the mesh opening; 5. Another coil facing the mesh opening; 6. Surface knitted fabric with ridge structure; 7. Convex ridge; 8. Concave portion; 9. One coil facing the concave portion; 10. Another coil facing the concave portion; 11. Sinking arc; 12. Sinking arc; 13. Sinking arc; 14. Sinking arc; 15. Sinking arc; 16. Sinking arc; 17. Sinking arc; 18. Sinking arc; A. Length of pattern yarn; L1. A straight line drawn from the contact point between coil 4 and pattern yarn 3 in the horizontal direction of the coils; L2. A straight line drawn from the contact point between coil 5 and pattern yarn 3 in the horizontal direction of the coils; L3. A straight line drawn from the center point of 1 / 2 of the length A at a right angle to the line A.

Claims

1. A surface material comprising a three-dimensional knitted fabric comprising a surface layer and a back layer of two-layer knitted fabrics and a connecting layer formed of connecting yarns connecting the two layers of knitted fabrics, characterized in that: The knitted fabric of the surface layer has an opening, and pattern yarns are inserted into the opening. When viewed from the surface side of the knitted fabric of the surface layer, the length A of the pattern yarn viewed from the opening is 0.50 mm or more and 2.50 mm or less. When the knitted fabric of the surface layer is viewed from the front side, a difference ΔH between an average value of the heights of the two stitches holding both ends of the effect yarn as seen from the opening and the height of the effect yarn is 0.10 mm or more.

2. The skin material according to claim 1, wherein A value ΔH / A obtained by dividing the difference ΔH between the average height of the two loops holding both ends of the pattern yarn seen from the opening and the pattern yarn height by the length A of the pattern yarn seen from the opening is 0.02 or greater.

3. The surface material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The knitted fabric of the surface layer has a mesh structure, and the openings are mesh openings.

4. The skin material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The knitted fabric of the surface layer has a ridge structure, and the opening is a concave portion formed between adjacent convex ridges.

5. The surface material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer excluding the opening is 11,000 or more and 21,000 or less.

6. The skin material according to claim 5, wherein The stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer excluding the opening is 11500 or more and 20000 or less.

7. The skin material according to claim 6, wherein The stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer excluding the opening is 13,000 or more and 19,000 or less.

8. The skin material according to claim 7, wherein The stitch density of the knitted fabric of the surface layer excluding the opening is 14,000 or more and 19,000 or less.

9. The surface material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side to the surface layer is 40cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

10. The skin material according to claim 9, wherein The air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side to the surface layer is 50cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

11. The skin material according to claim 9, wherein The air permeability of the knitted fabric from the connecting layer side to the surface layer is 60cc / cm 2 / sec or more.

12. The skin material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The pattern yarn is inserted and woven so as to be held by the loops facing the same opening, or is inserted and woven so as to be held by the loops facing different openings.

13. The skin material according to claim 4, wherein The pattern yarn is inserted and knitted so as to be held by the loops included in the adjacent convex ridge portions across the concave portion, or is inserted and knitted so as to be held by the loops included in the same convex ridge portion.

14. The skin material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The pattern yarn is knitted so as to partially form a loop while insert knitting is performed.

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