Method for producing a structure from a fibre composite material

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a pocket-like structure from a fibre composite material. In this method the fibre composite material is folded, i.e. a first and a second layer of the fibre composite material are superposed on one another and so joined by way of a fold, the first and second layers being additionally joined together along a first join line, wherein joining is carried out by mechanical bonding using a first mechanical bonding unit.

Description

[0001] Method for producing a structure from a fiber composite material

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for producing a structure from a fiber composite material.

[0003] As will be explained in detail below, a first and a second layer of fiber composite material are bonded together during the process. Common methods for this include thermal or ultrasonic bonding, but these processes require a fiber composite material with a plastic component, such as polyester. This can pose sustainability issues in general, and especially for disposable items, for example, increasing the cost of subsequent disposal.

[0004] The present invention is based on the technical problem of providing an advantageous method for producing a structure from a fiber composite material.

[0005] The method according to claim 1 is specifically directed to the production of a pocket-shaped structure. This can be used, for example, as a protective cover for a screen or general electronic device (e.g., a laptop or similar) during delivery, perhaps as an alternative to a foam bag, or in particular in the body or body care sector, e.g., as an overcoat or, in particular, a glove (see details below). Regardless of the specific application, the production of the pocket-shaped structure initially comprises a folding step in which a first and a second layer of the fiber composite material are placed on top of one another. The layers generally do not have to be congruent, but in any case have an overlap and are connected at least by a fold.In addition to the fold, the layers are then joined together along a first bonding line by mechanical bonding, in particular fluid jet bonding, e.g. hydroentanglement. Mechanical bonding is known per se in the production of nonwovens, but it takes place over a large area, for example by beams or needles acting on the web material across the entire width (transverse to the machine direction, in the transverse direction). In the present case, fluid or hydroentanglement, or e.g. needle bonding, only acts locally on the fiber composite material, whereby the fiber entanglement between the different layers that accompanies the bonding, holds these together along the bonding line. Together with the fold (and possibly another bonding line, see below), the first bonding line then defines the pocket-shaped structure.

[0006] The combination of the fold and the mechanical bonding line allows the pocket-shaped structure to be produced without the need for an external connecting element such as a thread, and eliminates the need for any "intrinsic" connecting elements in the fiber composite material, such as plastic fibers. The process can also be advantageously applied to a fiber composite material consisting exclusively of natural fibers (see below for details), which can be advantageous in terms of sustainability. This possibility is initially opened up by the combination of features according to the main claim, which is advantageous in itself in the sense of an option (even though the fiber composite material can generally also comprise components other than natural fibers).

[0007] While the use of exclusively natural materials could also be achieved, for example, by sewing with cotton thread or similar, the resulting throughput would be comparatively lower and thus disadvantageous, especially with regard to the disposable or mass-produced products mentioned above. In this respect, the fold can also be advantageous; by holding the layers together, it can reduce the length of the necessary connecting line. In summary, according to the present invention, a disposable or mass-produced article can be produced due to the high throughput (combination of fold and fluid jet), specifically due to the process being based on sustainable materials.

[0008] Preferred embodiments can be found in the dependent claims and the entire disclosure, whereby the presentation of the features does not always distinguish in detail between method and device aspects; in any case, the disclosure is implicitly to be read with regard to all claim categories. For example, if a device suitable for a specific type of production is described, this is to be read simultaneously as a disclosure of a corresponding production method, and vice versa.

[0009] The "fiber composite material" can generally also be a substantially unconsolidated pile, but preferably it is a consolidated pile, i.e., a consolidated fiber fleece. Its fibers, which are preferably natural fibers (see below for details), are connected within the fiber composite material due to fiber-fiber interlacing. In other words, the fiber composite material is already a consolidated sheet material before the pocket-shaped structure is produced; preferably, it is not consolidated again separately after folding and introducing the connecting line(s). In general, the fiber composite material can also comprise continuous fibers, but preferably it comprises or consists of staple fibers.

[0010] In general, the "mechanical bonding unit" can also be a needle unit, for example, which locally impacts the fiber composite material with one or more needles (e.g., no more than 30, 20, or 15 needles), whereby the impact or piercing results in fiber-to-fiber entanglement. This can be promoted, for example, by providing the needle(s) with notches on their flank(s).

[0011] Preferably, the mechanical bonding is fluid jet bonding, i.e., the "mechanical bonding unit" is a fluid jet unit configured to emit a fluid jet. "Fluid" can refer to a liquid or, more generally, a gas, so the fluid jet unit can also be configured, for example, to emit a stream of compressed air or steam. Preferably, it is a water jet unit, i.e., it is configured to emit a water jet, the action of which on the fiber composite material results in fiber-to-fiber entanglement and thus bonding of the layers.

[0012] The reference to the "first and second layers" is generally not intended to exclude a structure with more than two layers; for example, there may also be a third and possibly a fourth layer. For this purpose, the fiber composite material can be folded multiple times, e.g., twice (three layers) or three times (four layers), etc. However, a single fold is preferred, also in the interest of a simple structure, so there is exactly one fold and two layers.

[0013] The (first) connecting line is generally rather narrow in relation to its length. In absolute values, it can have a width, which is taken in a surface direction perpendicular to the connecting line, of, for example, a maximum of 2 cm, 1.5 cm, 1 cm or 0.8 cm, with possible lower limits being, for example, 0.2 cm or 0.5 cm. Limiting the width can be of interest, for example, with regard to material consumption (particularly in the case of a mass-produced disposable article), whereas a lower limit can have advantages, for example, with regard to a reliable connection. The term "line" describes a course viewed as an integral part; the line can, for example, also be made up of a large number of consecutive points. In other words, the line can be discontinuous in the case of a pulsed fluid jet or continuous in the case of a continuous jet.

[0014] In general, the connecting line is not necessarily a straight line, but can also be curved, particularly in an arc. The connecting line is always flat, meaning it lies, for example, in a plane spanned by the machine direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to it. The "surface directions" lie in this plane, and the "thickness direction" is perpendicular to this. In a conveyor unit, the fiber composite material is moved in the machine direction, which is the feed direction.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the first connecting line extends at an angle to the fold, for example, diagonally or, in particular, perpendicularly. The connecting line can be a straight line (i.e., enclosing a corresponding angle with the fold, e.g., of 90°) or can have a curved course (where the angle is then determined by a tangent locally applied to the connecting line). As an alternative to the angled / perpendicular extension to the fold, a pocket-shaped structure can generally also be produced, for example, with a connecting line parallel to the fold, for example in conjunction with another connecting line or by folding the structure over at an open end.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the connecting line extends at least partially in the machine direction, i.e., the feed in the machine direction is preferably used (at least partially) to introduce the connecting line. In this case, the fold can generally also be oriented obliquely or even parallel to the machine direction; see also the comments in the previous paragraph.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, however, the fold is oriented substantially perpendicular to the machine direction when the folded fiber composite material is moved through the mechanical bonding unit. "Substantially perpendicular" here means, for example, an angular deviation of no more than 10°, further and particularly preferably no more than 5° or 3°. Within the limits of technically possible accuracy, the fold is preferably perpendicular to the machine direction, i.e., parallel to the transverse direction.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the mechanical consolidation unit is additionally moved at least partially in the transverse direction while the folded fiber composite material is moved through it and, for example, the fluid jet acts on it. This can generally also be combined with a partial movement of the mechanical consolidation unit in the machine direction, but preferably the mechanical consolidation unit is moved exclusively in the transverse direction (and the portion of the connecting line lying in the machine direction results from the movement of the fiber composite material by means of the conveyor unit). The additional movement of the mechanical consolidation unit transverse to the machine direction can, for example, create a connecting line with an oblique course, thus, for example, producing a trapezoidal pocket shape.

[0019] According to an alternative preferred embodiment, the mechanical bonding unit is at rest in the transverse direction as the fiber composite material moves through and the fluid jet acts upon it, i.e., it is not moved in the transverse direction. Preferably, viewed as a whole, it is at rest in a stationary coordinate system; thus, it can, for example, be rigidly suspended relative to the conveyor unit. Compared to the variant discussed in the previous paragraph, this may reduce flexibility; conversely, it can, for example, simplify the structure. The extension of the connecting line then results from the movement of the fiber composite material in the machine direction; thus, the first connecting line is parallel to this.

[0020] A preferred alternative to the fold perpendicular to the machine direction relates to a fold that is aligned essentially parallel to the machine direction as it moves through the mechanical consolidation unit. Here, "essentially parallel" means, for example, an angular deviation of at most 20°, further and particularly preferably at most 10° or 5°. Within the scope of technically customary accuracy, an exactly parallel alignment is also possible. Regarding the orientation of the connecting line relative to the fold, reference is made to the options discussed above (e.g., "oblique" or "essentially perpendicular").

[0021] A substantially perpendicular connecting line can be created, for example, by stopping the fiber composite material with the fold essentially parallel to the machine direction during the creation of the connecting line, i.e., briefly interrupting the movement of the fiber composite material in the machine direction. Alternatively, a connecting line that deviates only slightly from a 90° angle can be created, for example, at a slow feed rate, or a connecting line that is diagonal to the fold can be deliberately created, for example, at a correspondingly higher feed rate.

[0022] Regardless of the timing of the feed in the machine direction, the bonding unit can be moved across the fiber composite material transversely to the machine direction to create the bonding line, i.e., with at least a partial movement in the transverse direction. The direction of movement of the bonding unit can be parallel to the transverse direction or can also have an additional component in the machine direction (e.g., to compensate for the feed, a portion of the fiber composite material can be "moved" in the machine direction).

[0023] In these variants, a second connecting line can also be introduced in addition to the first, either sequentially to the first connecting line or simultaneously. For both simultaneous and sequential introduction of the first and second connecting lines, they can be introduced either from the same side edge of the fiber composite material (from the free end or from the fold) or with a counter-directional movement (one connecting line from the fold and the other from the free end).

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the layers of the fiber composite material are also bonded together by mechanical bonding, in particular fluid jet bonding, along a second bonding line. This can generally also be introduced sequentially to the first bonding line, for example, using the same mechanical bonding unit in a second pass.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, however, a second mechanical consolidation unit is provided, with which the second connecting line is introduced simultaneously with the first connecting line. All features disclosed as preferred within the scope of the present disclosure with regard to the first mechanical consolidation unit (or generically "mechanical consolidation unit") can also be preferred in the case of the second mechanical consolidation unit; in particular, it can be a fluid jet unit; particularly preferably, the first and second mechanical consolidation units are structurally identical to one another. The second mechanical consolidation unit can also be movable transversely to the machine direction or, alternatively, can be suspended stationary, in particular, can be stationary in a fixed coordinate system.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the first and second mechanical reinforcement units are arranged on transversely opposite side edges of the folded fiber composite material. Preferably, there is then no further mechanical reinforcement unit in the transverse direction between them, thus the width of the pocket-shaped structure is determined by the transverse distance between the mechanical reinforcement units. In other words, exactly one pocket-shaped structure is produced at any given time, rather than multiple pocket-shaped structures in parallel, which would then have to be separated.

[0027] As already mentioned at the beginning, the fiber composite material preferably comprises natural fibers and / or cellulose; preferably, it can be made exclusively of such fibers. These fibers can be, in particular, cotton, but generally also silk, wool, linen, or hemp, for example, although blends of several of the aforementioned fiber types are also possible. The fiber composite material made of natural fibers, which is therefore preferably made exclusively of natural fibers, can be used to realize a sustainable solution, especially with regard to mass-produced or disposable products.

[0028] The application also relates to a method for producing a glove, wherein the glove is manufactured as a pocket-shaped structure in a manner disclosed herein. It can be open in one direction for gripping with the hand and closed in the opposite direction, preferably by the fold. In this case, the first and second connecting lines can each delimit the interior of the glove on one side, i.e., with respect to the orientation of the flat hand in the glove, one connecting line can extend to the left and the other to the right. The connecting lines can each extend at an angle, in particular perpendicular to the fold.

[0029] With regard to further alternative shapes, express reference is made to the above disclosure; all variants relating to the "pocket shape" in general can also be applied to the glove. Furthermore, a variant without a fold is also to be disclosed, in which only the connecting line delimits the interior of the pocket, in particular the interior of the glove. This connecting line can, for example, have an arc shape and can be applied, for example, by a mechanical bonding unit moved back and forth in the transverse direction during feed in the machine direction. The two layers can be folded (the fold could then point in the machine direction and lie "above" the arc) or made from two separate layers that are placed on top of one another. In the latter case, the layers can, for example, also have different properties; for example, one layer can be specifically optimized for a cleaning function.For further details, e.g. regarding the nature of the fiber composite material or the device, in particular mechanical consolidation unit (e.g. fluid jet unit), etc., reference is made to the remaining disclosure.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment relating to the manufacture of the glove, after the layers have been joined by mechanical bonding, a lotion is applied to the pocket-shaped structure, i.e., the glove. "Lotion" here generally refers to a liquid tailored to the intended use of the glove, which can be selected, for example, with regard to a cleaning and / or care effect. Preferably, this is a care glove used as a sanitary article in the medical and care sector, for example in hospitals, nursing homes, etc., but also in home care. The natural fibers can be not only sustainable but also well-tolerated, for example, with regard to skin contact.

[0031] According to an alternative preferred embodiment, the "pocket shape" is used to produce a container for a luxury item and / or food. Specifically, for example, the pocket shape can first be produced and then the luxury item and / or food inserted; afterward, the pocket shape can be closed, for example (e.g., by another fold and / or another connecting line). Regardless of the detailed implementation, the advantages discussed above also apply to these applications, for example, the possibility of using natural materials or fibers. The container can be used for consumption and / or for preparing food / beverages, e.g., as a tea bag. The container can also, for example, hold tobacco products; in the case of chewing tobacco, for example, it can also be intended for direct oral consumption.

[0032] The application also relates to a device for producing a pocket-shaped structure, which comprises a conveying unit and a first mechanical bonding unit, preferably a fluid jet unit. The conveying unit is generally configured to move the fiber composite material in the machine direction relative to the mechanical bonding unit; the latter is preferably stationary, viewed in the stationary coordinate system, at least with respect to the machine direction (movement in the transverse direction is possible, see above). For conveying the fiber composite material, the conveying unit can comprise, for example, rollers, a chain, or, in particular, a conveyor belt, on which the fiber composite material passes the first mechanical bonding unit in the machine direction during operation.

[0033] The mechanical solidification unit, in particular the fluid jet unit, is designed for local solidification and therefore has, for example, a maximum of 50 nozzles (openings), with increasing preference, in the order mentioned, to a maximum of 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, or 20 nozzles. Generally, a single nozzle, i.e. opening, is also possible; advantageous lower limits can nevertheless be 3, 7, or 10 nozzles. Furthermore, to enable local action, the nozzles of the fluid jet unit are spatially compactly grouped, at least in the transverse direction. In this direction, they are distributed over a maximum width of 3 cm, 2.5 cm, 2 cm, 1.5 cm, or 1 cm (if a single nozzle is provided, the width it covers is the opening diameter in the transverse direction). For example, a projection of the nozzles in the machine direction into a plane perpendicular to the machine direction can be considered, whereby this projection in the transverse direction then has a specified maximum width.

[0034] In general, the nozzles of the fluid jet unit can be distributed more widely in the machine direction. For example, a fluid jet bar (water jet bar) with a greater width (e.g. at least 5 cm, e.g. around 10 cm) can be provided and arranged "twisted". If the width direction of the fluid jet bar, in which its nozzles are arranged next to one another, points essentially in the machine direction (parallel to it or slightly tilted thereto), the nozzles are nevertheless arranged correspondingly close to one another in the transverse direction (even if the bar itself is wider). Preferably, the nozzles are also grouped together accordingly compactly in the machine direction (distributed at most 3 cm, 2.5 cm, 2 cm, 1.5 cm or 1 cm).

[0035] Preferably, the nozzle(s) of the first fluid jet unit are supplied via a single common fluid connection, to which a hose or pipe can be connected for supplying the fluid (in particular water). If, in a preferred embodiment, the device additionally has a second fluid jet unit, this is preferably equipped with its own fluid connection, i.e. it is supplied with the fluid via its own pipe or hose section. A corresponding number of nozzles (openings) can then in turn be assigned to the fluid connection of the second fluid jet unit (at most 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25 or 20 / at least 1, 3, 7, 10). Several fluid jet units can also be arranged one after the other in the machine direction at the same position in the transverse direction, i.e. in particular at the same side edge of the fiber composite material.On the other hand, there may also be only exactly one fluid jet unit at the respective position in the transverse direction, in particular exactly a first one at the first side edge, preferably in combination with exactly a second one at the second side edge.

[0036] A respective nozzle of the fluid jet unit can, for example, have an opening width of at least 50 pm, further and particularly preferably at least 70 pm or 80 pm. Possible upper limits can, for example, be at most 1 mm, further and particularly preferably at most 0.3 mm or 0.2 mm. A circular opening can be preferred, so the width specifications are to be read as opening diameter. In detail, the width can also depend on the type of fluid; although the subject matter of the invention is preferably generally not limited to hydroentanglement, air or generally a gaseous fluid can also be provided as an alternative. The fluid jet unit can have exactly one or more nozzles, see above.

[0037] The nozzles of the fluid jet unit can be distributed evenly or irregularly across the fluid jet unit, for example, at equal distances (equidistant) or at varying distances. Regardless of the arrangement or number of nozzles, etc., the energy input of the fluid jet bonding for bonding the layers can be set to at least 180 J / m 2 / g, further and particularly preferably at least 600 J / m 2 / g or at least 800 J / m 2 / g. The individual values ​​may also depend on the polymer or fiber material and the structures. Possible upper limits could be, for example, 18,000 J / m 2 / g, 12,000 J / m 2 / g or 6,000 J / m 2 / g. In the case of natural fibers, a range of 800-6,000 J / m 2 / g may be particularly effective and preferred.

[0038] Generally, for example, in the interest of a robust and simple design, the first fluid jet unit can be arranged transversely next to a central conveying element of the conveying unit, e.g., a chain conveyor or conveyor belt running in the machine direction. In a preferred embodiment, the conveying unit then additionally has a conveying element that is positioned upstream of the fluid jet unit in the machine direction and is aligned with the fluid jet unit in the machine direction, in particular aligned with its nozzles in the machine direction.

[0039] In other words, the conveying element, which can be provided as a roller or roll, for example, is also arranged at least partially adjacent to the main conveying element, so that it moves the fiber structure into the fluid jet unit. This can, for example, prevent backflow due to the locally impinging fluid or water jet, thus supporting uniform conveying and thus reproducible bonding of the layers. If another fluid jet unit is provided on the opposite side of the central conveying element in the transverse direction, an additional conveying limit is preferably arranged upstream of it as well.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid jet unit is assigned a receiving unit with a grid, wherein the nozzle(s) of the fluid jet unit and the grid are arranged opposite one another in a thickness direction. This thickness direction is perpendicular to the machine and transverse directions; in the preferred orientation, it is vertical when viewed in a fixed coordinate system. Independent of these details, the grid can, on the one hand, provide a support for the fiber structure, thus supporting it during local consolidation / bonding of the layers. The fluid or water jet can also be partially reflected by the grid, thus, for example, increasing the energy input and thus the degree of entanglement.

[0041] With a hollow space downstream of the grid, i.e. a cavity, the fluid can also be collected and drained away in a targeted manner. For this purpose, the receiving unit preferably has active suction, i.e. the fluid or water is sucked out of the cavity downstream of the grid. If a second fluid jet unit is provided, this is preferably assigned its own receiving unit with a grid, preferably with active suction. According to a preferred embodiment, the grid moves in the machine direction, at least a part or section thereof facing the fluid jet unit. The grid is preferably provided as a rotating cylinder or around a running belt, which is suspended, for example, from end-side deflection rollers and can be additionally stabilized by support rollers in between. Regardless of the specific implementation, the grid can then move along with the fiber composite material, whereby a structure can be predetermined for the connecting area by the grid.The grid can, for example, have a varying opening width and / or local elevations, which can impose a specific structure on the joining area of ​​the fiber composite material. The joining area can thus be designed with an appearance that mimics another joining method, e.g., the appearance of a thread (e.g., a straight or zigzag stitch, etc.).

[0042] In general, the term "grid" in the context of this disclosure refers to a surface element with a large number of holes. The grid can therefore be provided, for example, in the form of a wire grid or fabric grid, but is generally not limited to this. Alternatively, the grid structure can be realized, for example, with a sheet or foil that is perforated according to the grid shape (i.e., for example, designed as a perforated sheet). In the case of a wire or fabric grid, however, crosswise superimposed wire sections or fibers or threads can define the hole structure. Regardless of the specific implementation, and also regardless of the option of additional structuring (see the previous paragraph), the grid can, for example, be used to effectively drain the fluid after it has acted on the fiber composite material.

[0043] The aforementioned variant of the grid provided in the form of a continuous belt that moves along with the fiber composite material can, on the one hand, be provided as a separate belt from the actual conveyor belt (i.e., offset from it in the transverse direction or next to it). According to an alternative preferred embodiment, however, the grid is an edge section of the actual conveyor belt, the middle section of which conveys the fiber composite material during operation. In other words, a belt that is continuous in the transverse direction can be provided, of which at least one edge section is designed in a grid shape. The belt can be designed in a grid shape in the transverse direction as a whole, i.e., also in the middle section, or alternatively, it can be provided in the middle section, for example, as a closed surface element. The latter can be realized, for example, by an additional coating, such as rubber, in the middle section, which can, for example, increase the frictional force with the fiber composite material.Regardless of these details, the tape can be perforated in the edge section or made as a fabric with an inherent grid structure, for example based on polyamide.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, a part of an extraction system, in particular active extraction (see above), can be provided between a working side of the belt, which conveys the fiber composite material during operation, and a counter-rotating slack side of the belt. In general, the fluid can also be discharged laterally, i.e. in the transverse direction, between the working side and the slack side. However, only one frame is preferably arranged between the working side and the slack side, which frame transfers the extraction power of a extraction unit arranged below the slack side to the working side above. In other words, the frame can define a hollow space between the working side and the slack side, which creates a fluidic connection to the extraction unit (and through which the extracted fluid flows during operation).

[0045] In general, even regardless of a lattice-like design, in addition to a band on which the fiber composite material rests, there can be another band opposite in the thickness direction and / or vertical direction that holds the fiber composite material down. The fiber composite material can be held between the bands, which can also prevent unwanted blocking during local application of the reinforcement unit.

[0046] In general, the fiber composite material can also be folded manually, for example, and fed to the conveying and thus fluid jet unit. In a preferred embodiment, however, the device additionally has a folding unit that folds the fiber composite material upstream of the fluid jet unit, for example, by passing it over a correspondingly curved edge.

[0047] In the following, the invention is explained in more detail using an exemplary embodiment, whereby the individual features within the scope of the independent claims can also be essential to the invention in other combinations and no distinction is made in detail between the different claim categories.

[0048] In detail,

[0049] Figure 1 shows a schematic plan view of the production of a pocket-shaped structure;

[0050] Figure 2 shows the pocket-shaped structure produced according to Figure 1 in an oblique view;

[0051] Figure 3 shows a mechanical hardening unit with associated receiving unit in an oblique view from above;

[0052] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating a conveying element upstream of the mechanical consolidation unit;

[0053] Figure 5 shows an alternative variant to Figure 1;

[0054] Figure 6 is a flow chart summarising some process steps;

[0055] Figure 7a shows an embodiment of a conveyor unit with a belt;

[0056] Figure 7b shows the embodiment according to Figure 7a in a different viewing direction.

[0057] Preferred embodiment of the invention

[0058] Figure 1 shows a schematic plan view of a device 1 which has a conveyor unit 2 and a first mechanical bonding unit, namely a first fluid jet unit 10, and a second mechanical bonding unit, namely a second fluid jet unit 20. A fiber composite material 5 is conveyed in the machine direction 3 on a conveyor belt 2.1 of the conveyor unit 2, i.e. moved to the left in the illustration according to Figure 1. The fiber composite material 5 was previously folded, so that a first and a second layer 5.1, 5.2 lie one above the other and are connected by a fold 5.3. In relation to the movement in the machine direction 3, the fold 5.3 is at the front. The fluid jet units 10, 20 each have around 15 nozzles 11, 21 in the present case. These are arranged compactly with respect to a transverse direction 4 perpendicular to the machine direction 3, namely distributed over a width 12, 22 of less than 1 cm.The respective emitted fluid jets, in this case water jets, accordingly act only locally on the fiber composite material 5 as they pass through it. Consequently, the first and second layers 5.1, 5.2 are joined together by the first fluid jet unit 10 along a first connecting line 31 and by the second fluid jet unit 20 along a second connecting line 32. In these examples, the energy input was in a range of 2,400-3,600 J / m. 2 / G.

[0059] Together with the fold 5.3, this creates a pocket-shaped structure 35, in the present example a glove 36. As can be seen from the oblique view according to Figure 2, this is open on one side (diagonally below), so that one can reach in from there. The structure 35 or the glove 36 is closed on the other sides via the fold 5.3 and the connecting lines 31, 32, without additional connecting elements (thread, clips, etc.). Since the fiber-fiber entanglement is used to connect the layers 5.1, 5.2 through fluid or water jet entanglement, the fiber structure 5 can be made exclusively from natural fibers 50, e.g. cotton fibers.

[0060] Figure 3 shows the first fluid jet unit 10 in further detail, specifically in a view obliquely from above. Viewed in a fixed coordinate system, the machine and transverse directions 3, 4 are horizontal, while the thickness direction 55 perpendicular thereto is vertical. The nozzles 11 of the first fluid jet unit 10 are arranged on the underside of a fluid jet head 13, which is connected to a hose 15 via a fluid connection 14. During operation, the fluid 60, in particular water 61, is supplied via this hose. It exits downwards via the nozzles 11 (not shown) and acts on the fiber composite material 5. Opposite the fluid jet unit 10 in the thickness direction 55 is a grid 70, which is part of a receiving unit 71. The grid 70 can partially reflect the fluid jet (and thus increase the entanglement), downstream of the grid 70 the fluid is collected in a cavity 72 and removed via an active suction 73.Although not shown here, the second fluid jet unit 20 can be constructed and equipped analogously.

[0061] Figure 4 illustrates the fluid jet head 13 of the first fluid jet unit 10 in a top view, partially showing the grid 70 arranged underneath it. In addition to the conveyor belt 2.1, on which the fiber structure (not shown here) is centrally supported and moved in the machine direction 3, the conveyor unit 2 has a conveyor element 2.2. In the present case, this is provided as a rubber ring 81 arranged on a roller 80, which rotates during operation and guides the fiber structure under the water jet head 13.

[0062] Figure 5 shows an alternative variant to Figure 1, in which, in addition to the movement of the fiber structure 5 in the machine direction 3, the fluid jet units 10, 20 are each moved in the transverse direction 4, namely, away from each other as the fiber structure passes. As a result, the connecting regions 31, 32 are angled to the fold 5.3, thus giving the pocket-shaped structure 35 a trapezoidal shape (this could also be oriented differently than shown here, i.e., open on the narrow side and closed on the opposite side).

[0063] Figure 6 summarizes some of the process steps in a schematic overview. The fiber composite material is first folded 91. The layers overlapped by folding 91 are then bonded together 92, creating the bag- or glove-shaped structure. A lotion can then be applied 93, for example, a washing and / or care lotion.

[0064] Figure 7a shows, in a view similar to Figures 1 and 5, a conveyor belt 2.1, which is designed in the form of a grid 70 in a first edge section 2.1.1, upon which the first fluid jet unit 10 acts, and in the form of a grid 70 in a second edge section 2.1.2, upon which the second fluid jet unit 20 acts. In an intermediate central section 2.1.3, the conveyor belt 2.1 can also be designed in the form of a grid or, alternatively, as a closed belt.

[0065] Figure 7b shows a schematic side view of the conveyor belt 2.1, thus illustrating a working strand 2.1a and an empty strand 2.1b of the conveyor belt 2.1. A frame 80 defining a cavity 81 is arranged between the working strand 2.1a and the empty strand 2.1b. By means of a receiving unit 71 arranged below the empty strand 2.1b, a suction power can be applied analogously to the description of Figure 3, with the frame 80 bridging the distance between the working strand 2.1a and the empty strand 2.1b.

Claims

Claims 1 . Method for producing a pocket-shaped structure (35) from a fiber composite material (5), in which method the fiber composite material (5) is folded (91), i.e. a first and a second layer (5.1, 5.2) of the fiber composite material (5) are placed on top of one another and are connected via a fold (5.3), the first and the second layer (5.1, 5.2) are additionally connected to one another (92) along a first connecting line (31), wherein the connecting (92) is carried out by mechanical consolidation, in particular by fluid jet consolidation, with a first mechanical consolidation unit, in particular a fluid jet unit (10).

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting line (31) extends at an angle to the fold (5.3).

3. Method according to 1 or 2, in which the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved by a conveyor unit (2) in a machine direction (3) through the first mechanical consolidation unit, wherein the first connecting line (31) extends at least partially in the machine direction (3).

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the fold (5.3) is oriented substantially perpendicular to the machine direction (3) when the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved through the first mechanical consolidation unit.

5. Method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first mechanical consolidation unit, when the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved through, is additionally moved at least partially in a transverse direction (4) perpendicular to the machine direction (3).

6. The method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first mechanical consolidation unit, when the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved through, rests in a transverse direction (4) perpendicular to the machine direction (3), so that the first connecting line (31) lies parallel to the machine direction (3).

7. Method according to 1 or 2, in which the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved by a conveyor unit (2) in a machine direction (3) through the first mechanical consolidation unit, wherein the fold (5.3) is aligned substantially parallel to the machine direction (3) when the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved through the first mechanical consolidation unit.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first and the second layer (5.1, 5.2) are additionally connected to one another by mechanical consolidation along a second connecting line (32).

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the second connecting line (32) is introduced simultaneously to the first connecting line (31) with a second mechanical solidification unit, in particular a second fluid jet unit (20).

10. Method according to claim 9 in conjunction with one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, when the folded fiber composite material (5) is moved through, relative to the transverse direction (4), the first mechanical strengthening unit is arranged on a first side edge and the second mechanical strengthening unit is arranged on an opposite second side edge of the folded (91) fiber composite material (5).

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fiber composite material (5) comprises natural fibers (50) and / or fibers with cellulose.

12. A method for producing a glove (36), in particular a care glove, wherein the glove (36) is produced as a pocket-shaped structure (35) in a method according to one of the preceding claims.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein after the first and second layers (5.1, 5.2) have been joined (92) by mechanical consolidation, a lotion is applied (93) to the pocket-shaped structure (35).

14. A method for producing a container with a food / luxury item, wherein the container is produced as a pocket-shaped structure (35) in a method according to one of claims 1 to 11.

15. Device (1) for producing a pocket-shaped structure (35), with a conveyor unit (2) for conveying folded (91) fiber composite material (5) in a machine direction (3), a first mechanical consolidation unit, namely a first fluid jet unit (10), for connecting (92) a first and a second layer (5.1, 5.2) of the folded (91) fiber composite material (5) along a first connecting line (31) by fluid jet consolidation, wherein the fluid jet unit (10) has at most 50 nozzles (11) for dispensing the fluid, and wherein the nozzles (11) in the fluid jet unit (10) are distributed over a width (12) of at most 3 cm with respect to a transverse direction (4) perpendicular to the machine direction (3). 16 Device (1) according to claim 15, in which a conveying element (2.2) of the conveying unit (2), in each case with respect to the machine direction (3), is arranged upstream of the first fluid jet unit (10) and in alignment therewith.

17. Device (1) according to claim 15 or 16, in which the first fluid jet unit (10) is assigned a receiving unit (71) with a grid (70) which is arranged opposite the nozzles (11) in a thickness direction (55) perpendicular to the machine direction (3) and via which the fluid reaches the receiving unit (71).

18. Device (1) according to claim 17, wherein at least one portion of the grid (70) facing the fluid jet unit (10) is movable in the machine direction (3).

19. Device (1) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the receiving unit (71) comprises an active suction device (73).

20. Device (1) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the conveyor unit (2) has a conveyor belt (2.1) for conveying folded (91) fiber composite material (5), wherein an edge section (2.1.1, 2.1.2) of the conveyor belt (2.1) is designed as a grid (70), which edge section (2.1.1, 2.1.2) is arranged in the transverse direction (4) next to a center section (2.1.3) of the conveyor belt (2.1).

21. Device (1) according to claim 20, wherein a frame (80) is provided as part of an active suction system (73) between a working strand and an empty strand of the conveyor belt (2.1).

22. Device (1) according to one of claims 15 to 21, which additionally has a folding unit which is arranged upstream of the first fluid jet unit (10) and is designed to fold the fiber composite material (5).

23. Use of a device (1) according to one of claims 15 to 22 in a method according to claims 1 to 14.

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