Assembly for use in fibre extraction equipment

Abstract

One embodiment of an assembly for use in natural fibre extraction equipment is disclosed. In one arrangement, an assembly for use with equipment operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, which equipment has a feeding means configured operable for receiving raw material is disclosed. In one form, the assembly 5 comprises a first part 35 having an axis and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly 5, the first part 35 comprising or carrying a plurality of material engaging portions. The assembly comprises a second part 50 spaced relative the first part 35 so that, during operation of the assembly 5, the rotating plurality of material engaging portions 40 and the second part 50 cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing force(s) for extraction of the fibre when fed via the feeding means. In one form, the plurality of material engaging portions 40 are arranged with or about the first part so as to be operable for maintaining substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating material engaging portions as the raw material passes between the first 35 and second 50 parts during operation of the assembly 5. A method of natural fibre extraction is also disclosed. Textiles comprising extracted natural fibres are also disclosed.

Description

[0001] Assembly for use in fibre extraction equipment

[0002] Field

[0003] An assembly for use in natural fibre extraction equipment is disclosed. A method of natural fibre extraction is also disclosed. Textiles comprising extracted natural fibres are also disclosed.

[0004] Related applications

[0005] The present application claims priority to Australian provisional patent application Nos. 2024901741 and 2025901236 filed on 10 June 2024 and 10 April 2025 respectively, their respective contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0006] Background

[0007] Interest in natural fibre for use in high performing composite materials is growing. Of particular interest are hollow or partially hollow natural fibres. Hollow natural fibres provide multiple functional differences to that of solid fibre, as well as synthetic fibres. Such differences include improved functional vibration damping and energy absorption properties of the fibre in tape and yarn form of any textile configuration.

[0008] One specific hollow natural fibre of specific interest is that derived from the phormium plant (often referred to in New Zealand as harakeke flax). However, existing fibre extraction technologies have not been suited for extracting the plant’s fibre at a quality required for use in existing machinery for preparing yarn and tapes from the extracted fibre. As such, phormium fibre has not been available for use in producing high performing composite materials.

[0009] It is in the context of the above considerations that the principles of the present disclosure arise.

[0010] Summary

[0011] In one aspect, in embodiment provides an assembly for use with equipment operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the equipment having a feeding means configured operable for receiving raw material, the assembly comprising: a first part having an axis and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly, the first part comprising or carrying a plurality of material engaging portions, a second part spaced relative the first part so that, during operation of the assembly, the rotating plurality of material engaging portions and the second part cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing / rubbing force(s) for extraction of the fibre when fed via the feeding means, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged with or about the first part so as to be operable for maintaining substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating material engaging portions as the raw material passes between the first and second parts during operation of the assembly.

[0012] In another aspect, an embodiment provides an extraction assembly for operable use with a decorticator for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the equipment having a feeding means configured operable for receiving raw material, the extraction assembly comprising an embodiment of the assembly described above.

[0013] In some embodiments, the assembly of the present aspect, or any of its various embodiments described below or as otherwise described herein, may be provided in the form of a system for use with equipment (eg. decorticator equipment or like functioning equipment) operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state.

[0014] Embodiments of the aspects described above, and those described below, may comprise any of the following features either individually or in combination.

[0015] In another embodiment, the assembly further comprises a support assembly configured for moveably supporting the second part in an eccentric manner so that a space between the first and second parts is selectively adjustable during use (or otherwise) in a measured or controllable manner for accommodating incoming raw material of different or varying thicknesses.

[0016] In an embodiment, embodiments of the assembly described herein may be used with decorticator equipment or machinery.

[0017] In an embodiment, the first part is of annular or cylindrical form and extends along the axis providing first and second opposite ends defining a circumferential lateral side therebetween running about its axis.

[0018] In an embodiment, the plurality of material engaging portions are disposed at or near the circumferential lateral side of the first part generally coaxial with its axis.

[0019] In an embodiment, the plurality of material engaging portions are of elongate form and are arranged relative each other so that adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are disposed or positioned at an angle to each other.

[0020] In an embodiment, the or each of the plurality of material engaging portions are shaped so as to be of a substantially straight, having substantially parallel edges.

[0021] In an embodiment, adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are configured so that respective end portions of adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are spaced from one to other at a distance that enables provision of substantially consistent / even contact or engagement with the raw material.

[0022] In an embodiment, adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are configured so that respective end portions of adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are substantially continuous in transition from one to other in providing substantially consistent / even contact or engagement with the raw material.

[0023] In an embodiment, adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are configured so that respective end portions of adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are substantially connect in transition from one to other for providing substantially consistent / even contact or engagement with the raw material.

[0024] In an embodiment, the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged relative each other in a generally zig-zag like manner and connected or joined so as to run from one to the next or other substantially continuously along the circumferential lateral side of the first part. In an embodiment, the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged relative each other in a generally zig-zag like manner and connected or joined so as to run from one to the next or other substantially continuously along the circumferential lateral side of the first part and substantially coaxial with the axis.

[0025] In an embodiment, the generally zig-zag manner of the arrangement of the plurality of material engaging portions along the circumferential direction of the circumferential lateral side of the first part operates, during operation, to bias or prejudice the raw material toward a central region between the first and second ends of the first part, thereby enabling the raw material to substantially self-centre when engaged by the first part and the rotating material engaging portions during operation of the assembly.

[0026] In an embodiment, one of said straight edges is a leading edge and the alternate is a trailing edge, and wherein the leading edge precedes the trailing edge relative to a direction of rotation of the first part about the axis.

[0027] In an embodiment, the leading edge of the or each respective material engaging portions is rounded having a radius.

[0028] In an embodiment, the radius of the leading edge is about 0.5mm.

[0029] In an embodiment, the angle is between from about 18 degrees to about 22 degrees, or about 20 degrees, or about 19.4 degrees.

[0030] In an embodiment, the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged relative to the axis of the first part at an angle of between from about 8 degrees to about 12 degrees, or about 10 degrees, or about 9.7 degrees.

[0031] In an embodiment, the first part comprises of or is cast of SGNiResist material. In an embodiment, the first part comprises of is or cast from high chrome cast iron.

[0032] In an embodiment, the plurality of the material engaging portions are formed by way of a machining process. In an embodiment, the plurality of the material engaging portions are formed by way of a machining process following a casting process, or by machining from a block of steel.

[0033] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of the material engaging portions are formed as a protrusion in the circumferential lateral side or by way of a depression provided in the circumferential lateral side.

[0034] In an embodiment, the spacing between material engaging portions of or carried by the first part and / or the second part during operation of the assembly is arranged so as to be less than about 0.20mm or not greater than about 0.4mm, or about 0.25mm. In an embodiment, the spacing between material engaging portions of or carried by the first part and the second parts during operation of the assembly is arranged so as to be less than about 0.10mm or not greater than about 1 .45mm (with in one embodiment, infinite resolution).

[0035] In an embodiment, the spacing between material engaging portions of or carried by the first part and / or the second part during operation of the assembly is arranged so as to be not less than about 0.20mm or not greater than about 0.4mm, or about 0.25mm. In an embodiment, the spacing between material engaging portions of or carried by the first part and the second parts during operation of the assembly is arranged so as to be not less than about 0.10mm or not greater than about 1 .45mm (with in one embodiment, infinite resolution).

[0036] In an embodiment, supporting of the second part in an eccentric manner by the moveable support assembly enables adjustment of the space between the first and second parts to be selectively adjustable to a high degree of resolution of the thickness of the incoming raw material.

[0037] In an embodiment, supporting of the second part in an eccentric manner by the moveable support assembly enables adjustment of the space between the first and second parts to be selectively adjustable to a resolution having increments less than 1 percent, or up to about 1 .5 percent of the thickness of the incoming raw material.

[0038] In an embodiment, the second part is of elongate cylindrical form having first and second opposite ends, a circumferential lateral side extending between the first and second opposite ends, and an axis that is, when the second part is positioned relative with the first part for operation of the assembly, substantially parallel with the axis of the first part.

[0039] In an embodiment, the circumferential lateral side of the second part provides a material engaging surface which engages raw material during use of the assembly.

[0040] In an embodiment, the second part is held in position at the first and second ends by respective end supports that are supported coaxially relative each other in respect of a shared axis. In an embodiment, the second part is supported by the support assembly at or near the first and second ends of the second part by respective end supports of the support assembly so that the respective end supports are supported coaxially relative each other in respect of a shared axis.

[0041] In an embodiment, each end support comprises a respective body having a respective aperture formed or provided therein and dimensioned for receiving a respective end of the second part, the aperture being formed eccentric of the shared axis so as to offset the axis of the second part from the shared axis when supporting the second part with the assembly.

[0042] In an embodiment, each end support comprises a respective body having a respective aperture formed or provided therein and dimensioned for receiving a respective end of the second part, the respective apertures formed substantially eccentric of the shared axis of the respective end supports of the second part so as to offset the axis of the second part from the shared axis when supporting the second part with the assembly or relative to the first part.

[0043] In an embodiment, at least one of the end supports or eccentric bushings may be configured having a lever portion extending from a body of the support or eccentric bushing, the lever portion being arranged in operable association with an adjustment means by which the lever portion can be moved in respect of the shared axis of the end supports.

[0044] In an embodiment, the adjustment means comprises a rod screw may be arranged in operable association with a travelling member such that rotation of the rod screw enables consequential movement of the travelling member along a portion of the length of the rod screw, wherein the travelling member is operably associated with the lever portion.

[0045] In an embodiment, the lever portion and the travelling member may be operably connected by way of a linking member, the linking member being rotatably connected with the lever portion at or near a first end of the linking member, the linking member being rotatably connected with the travelling member at or near a second end of the linking member, and wherein the first and second ends of the linking member represent opposite ends of the linking member.

[0046] In an embodiment, the rod screw may be aligned that an axis about which it is rotatable is aligned be substantially traverse of the shared axis of the end supports or the eccentric bushings.

[0047] In an embodiment, the respective end supports supporting the second part are provided in the form of eccentric position adjustment enabling bushings which may be arranged with the second part by way of respective shrink rings or disc assemblies.

[0048] In an embodiment, the eccentric bushings may be held with the second part by way of respective shrink rings or disc assemblies.

[0049] In an embodiment, rotation of each end support about their shared axis enables the second part to be moved toward or away from the first part thereby enabling the spaced nature of the first and second parts to be adjusted in a measured or controllable manner.

[0050] In an embodiment, each of the respective end supports supporting the second part are configured so as to support the second part about at or near respective end regions of the second part in a manner allowing the second part to be selectively moveable relative or about the shared axis of the respective end supports thereby enabling it to be moveable relative to a peripheral region of the first part for enabling the space between the first and second parts to be adjusted in the measured or controllable manner during or operation of the equipment or otherwise.

[0051] In an embodiment, at least one of the respective end supports is configured having a lever portion extending from a body of the relevant support, the lever portion being arranged in operable association with an adjustment assembly by which the lever portion can be selectively moved in respect of the shared axis of the end supports and the peripheral of the first part.

[0052] In an embodiment, the adjustment assembly comprises a rod screw arranged in operable association with a travelling member such that rotation of the rod screw enables consequential movement of the travelling member along a portion of the length of the rod screw, and wherein the travelling member is operably associated with the lever portion so that the movement of the travelling member along the rod screw causes rotational movement of the respective end supports about the shared axis thereby causing movement of the second part about the shared axis in a substantially manner.

[0053] In an embodiment, each of the end supports supporting the second part are provided in the form of eccentric bushings configured so as to clamp about respective ends of the second part.

[0054] In an embodiment, the feed means comprises inlet region providing an opening through raw material is introduced into the assembly.

[0055] In an embodiment, the feed means comprises first and second infeed rollers (or a pair of infeed rollers). In one form, the infeed rollers cooperate to draw raw material into the assembly. In one form, the infeed rollers are spaced in-situ with one of the infeed rollers being generally disposed or positioned above the other. In one embodiment, one of the infeed rollers is stationery, and the other infeed roller is configured so as to be adjustable relative to the other infeed roller.

[0056] In one form, the lower disposed infeed roller is driven in a clockwise direction about its axis. In another form, the upper disposed infeed roller is driven in a counter-rotating direction about its axis. In another form, the counter- rotating manner of the infeed rollers is achieved or enabled by way of a serpentine drive with a double-sided belt, which double-sided belt is driven by a drive means and drives one of the infeed rollers

[0057] In one form, both infeed rollers are driven from a drive pulley arranged in driving relation with a drive means (for example, an electric motor). In one form, both infeed rollers rotate at the same speed. In one arrangement, one or both infeed rollers are spiral or helically fluted or grooved on their peripheral surface. In one embodiment, the first and second rotatable members or infeed rollers have a peripheral surface configured having a plurality of spiral or helically shaped grooves or flutes formed therewith for interacting with raw material being introduced for interaction with the first and second parts of the assembly, one or more of the spiral of helically shaped grooves of the first, second rotatable members or infeed rollers being configured so as to be aligned substantially concentric relative to respective axes about which the first, second rotatable members or infeed rollers rotate. In this manner, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with each infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members) facilitates the raw material (e.g., incoming leaf) being drawn in without damaging or crimping the leaf or the fibres as compared other formations, such as for example, the toothed approach (where teeth portion extend from the peripheral surface of the infeed rollers or the first, second rotatable members). Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with each infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members) may facilitate centring of the incoming raw material to ensure alignment through the decortication process, hence making more effective decortication. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with each infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members) may facilitate a substantially constant purchase on the leaf as the grooves / flutes are always constantly engaging the raw material as compared the toothed approach where the engagement is sequential and rhythmic with each tooth. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with each infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members) may facilitate easier cleaning because there are not sharp or deep recessions such as is present with the toothed approach. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with each infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members) may facilitate less reliance on timing of the relative rotation of the infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members). Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with each infeed rollers (or first, second rotatable members) may facilitate quieter and less complex (or clunky) operation less vibration as compared the toothed approach where the teeth hit each other which can send vibrations through the assembly or equipment to the decorticator which may cause balancing issues to the critical and fine tolerance between the first and second parts (e.g. the beater bar and beater drum).

[0058] In one embodiment, the infeed rollers comprise D2 tool steel, or nitride hardened material.

[0059] In an embodiment, the pair of feed rollers driven in a counter-rotating or synchronous manner by a driving assembly, each roller comprising facing annular sides configured so as to engage raw material introduced into the assembly via the inlet region’s opening and move the raw material toward the first and second parts for engagement thereby.

[0060] In an embodiment, the feed means is configured so that, during operation of the assembly, the feed rollers of the feed means are driven in a counter-rotating or synchronous manner at about 400 revolutions per minute enabling a raw material feed rate of about 2 metres per second, and rotatable driving of the first part is driven by driving means at about 2,100 revolutions per minute. In one embodiment, the feed rollers of the feed means are driven in a counter-rotating or synchronous manner at about 320 revolutions per minute enabling a raw material feed rate of about 1 .5 metres per second, and rotatable driving of the first part is driven by driving means at about 2,100 revolutions per minute. In an embodiment, the pair of feed rollers comprise first and second rotatable members arranged in driving relation with a driving means so as to be rotatable thereby when in use.

[0061] In an embodiment, one of the first, second rotatable members is arranged so as to be moveable relative to the other so that, when in use, a spacing between the first, second rotatable members through which raw material is engaged for feeding to the equipment can be variably responsive to the raw material so that the engagement of the raw material by the rotatable members facilitates a generally consistent rate of movement toward the equipment.

[0062] In an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members rotate about their respective axes of rotation in opposing directions of rotation.

[0063] In an embodiment, movement of the moveable rotatable member relative to the other rotatable member is substantially linear along an axis.

[0064] In an embodiment, movement of the moveable rotatable member along the axis is in response to its engagement with the incoming raw material.

[0065] In an embodiment, movement of the rotatable member is in response to a thickness of the raw material as it engages with the first, second rotatable members.

[0066] In an embodiment, the response of the moveable rotatable member to a thickening of the raw material engaging same causes the moveable member to adjust its position (eg. which could be a selfadjustment) in respect of the other rotatable member. In an embodiment, the response of the moveable rotatable member to a thickening of the raw material engaging same causes the moveable member to move away from the raw material along the axis.

[0067] In an embodiment, the moveable rotatable member is operable with a biasing means, which biasing means is operable for biasing or prejudicing movement of the moveable rotatable member in a direction along the axis that is toward the raw material.

[0068] In an embodiment, the biasing means is configured so as to be variable or adjustable so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second rotatable members, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material.

[0069] In an embodiment, the axis along which the moveable rotatable member moves relative to the other rotatable member is inclined or angularly offset relative to a vertically aligned plane or axis, or is substantially aligned with the vertically aligned plane or axis.

[0070] In an embodiment, the raw material is phormium leaf. In an embodiment, any embodiment of the assembly may be used with or incorporated within decorticator equipment or machinery. In one form, an embodiment provides a decorticator comprising any embodiment of the assembly described herein.

[0071] An embodiment provides an extraction assembly for operable use with a decorticator for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the equipment having a feeding means configured operable for receiving raw material, the assembly comprising: a first part having an axis and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly, the first part comprising or carrying a plurality of material engaging portions, a second part spaced relative the first part so that, during operation of the assembly, the rotating plurality of material engaging portions and the second part cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing force(s) for extraction of the fibre when fed via the feeding means, the plurality of material engaging portions being arranged with or about the first part so as to be operable for maintaining substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating material engaging portions as the raw material passes between the first and second parts during operation of the assembly, a support assembly configured for moveably supporting the second part in an eccentric manner so that a space between the first and second parts is selectively adjustable during use (or otherwise) in a measured or controllable manner for accommodating incoming raw material of different or varying thicknesses.

[0072] Embodiments of the above aspect may incorporate either individually or in combination any of the features described above as otherwise described herein.

[0073] An embodiment provides a feed assembly for use with equipment operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the feed assembly configured operable for feeding a raw material into the equipment, the feed assembly comprising: first and second rotatable members configured so as to be cooperable for engaging a raw material for feeding to the equipment, wherein one of the first, second rotatable members is arranged so as to be moveable relative to the other so that, when in use, a spacing between the first, second rotatable members through which raw material is engaged for feeding to the equipment can be variably responsive to the raw material so that the engagement of the raw material by the rotatable members facilitates a generally consistent rate of movement toward the equipment for interaction with the first and second parts of the assembly.

[0074] In an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members are first and second infeed rollers. In an embodiment, the first and second infeed rollers and have a peripheral surface configured having a plurality of spiral or helically shaped grooves formed therewith for interacting with raw material being introduced for interaction with the first and second parts of the assembly, one or more of the spiral of helically shaped grooves of the first, second infeed rollers being configured so as to be aligned substantially concentric relative to respective axes about which the first, second infeed rollers rotate.

[0075] In an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members are arranged in driving relation with a driving means so as to be rotatable thereby when in use.

[0076] In an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members rotate about respective axes of rotation in opposing directions of rotation.

[0077] In an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members rotate about their respective axes of rotation. In one embodiment, the first and second rotatable members rotate about their respective axes of rotation in a substantially counter-rotating or synchronous manner by way of the driving means.

[0078] In an embodiment, movement of the moveable rotatable member is substantially linear along an axis. In an embodiment, movement of the moveable rotatable member along the axis is in response to its engagement with the incoming raw material. In an embodiment, movement of the rotatable member is in response to a thickness of the raw material as it engages with the first, second rotatable members. In an embodiment, response of the moveable rotatable member to a thickening of the raw material engaging same causes the moveable member to move away from the raw material along the axis.

[0079] In an embodiment, the moveable rotatable member is operable with a biasing means, which biasing means is operation for biasing or prejudicing movement of the moveable rotatable member in a direction along the axis that is toward the raw material.

[0080] In an embodiment, the biasing means is varied or adjusted so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second rotatable members, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material the equipment.

[0081] In an embodiment, the axis along which the moveable rotatable member moves relative to the other rotatable member is inclined or angularly offset relative to a vertically aligned plane or axis, or is substantially aligned with the vertically aligned plane or axis.

[0082] In an embodiment, the driving means is provided in the form of a drive assembly.

[0083] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises a first driven arrangement configured for placing the first rotatable member in driving relation with a drive or driving means or module (eg. a motor drive module). In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises a second driven arrangement operable for providing drive to the second rotatable member, the second driven arrangement configured in driving relation with the drive means or driving module by way of the first driven arrangement. In this manner, the first driven arrangement is operable between the drive means or driving module and the second driven arrangement.

[0084] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises a drive transfer means arranged operable with the first driven arrangement (eg. driven by way of the motor drive) so that the drive transfer means is receivable of drive from the first driven arrangement, the drive transfer means further configured operable with the second driven arrangement so that drive received from the first driven arrangement can be transferred to the second driven arrangement for driving of the second rotatable member.

[0085] In an embodiment, the first driven arrangement comprises a timing belt configured having a first side arranged in driving engagement with the drive means or driving module for receiving drive therefrom for driving of the first rotatable member by way of the first side.

[0086] In an embodiment, the second driven arrangement comprises a timing belt. In an embodiment, the timing belt of the second driven arrangement is arranged with the drive transfer means so as to be receivable of drive therefrom for driving of the second rotatable member.

[0087] In an embodiment, the belt of the first driven arrangement comprises a second side operably engaged with the drive transfer means for enabling the transfer of drive received from the drive means or driving module via the first side of the belt to the drive transfer means via the second side of the belt, which transferred drive is used for driving of the second driven arrangement for driving of the second rotatable member.

[0088] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises a first driven arrangement operable for providing drive to the first rotatable member, the first driven arrangement configured in driving relation with a driving module (eg. an electric motor module).

[0089] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises a second driven arrangement operable for providing drive to the second rotatable member, the second driven arrangement configured in driving relation with the driving module.

[0090] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises a drive transfer means arranged operable with the driving module and configured for receiving drive therefrom and transferring drive to (i) the first driven arrangement for driving the first rotatable member, and (ii) the second driven arrangement for driving the second rotatable member.

[0091] In an embodiment, the first driven arrangement comprises a timing belt configured having a first side arranged in driving engagement with the drive transfer means for receiving drive therefrom for driving of the first rotatable member by way of the first side. In an embodiment, the second driven arrangement comprises a timing belt configured having a first side arranged in driving engagement with the drive transfer means for receiving drive therefrom for driving of the second rotatable member by way of the first side.

[0092] In an embodiment, the timing belt of the first driven arrangement comprises a second side operably engaged with the first rotatable member, and wherein drive received by the timing belt of the first driven arrangement by way of the first side is transferred to the first rotatable member for driving same.

[0093] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises respective means for tensioning of the timing belts of the first and second driven arrangements.

[0094] In an embodiment, the biasing means and / or said respective means for tensioning of the belts of the first and second driven arrangements is variable or adjustable so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second rotatable members, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material the equipment.

[0095] In an embodiment, the feed assembly is configured so that the moveable rotatable member is the first rotatable member.

[0096] In an embodiment, the feed assembly may be used with or incorporated within decorticator equipment or machinery having a beater drum, and wherein the beater drum is operably associated with the driving module so as to be driven by same.

[0097] In an embodiment, the drive assembly comprises respective means for tensioning of the belts of the first and second driven arrangements. In an embodiment, the tensioning of the belts of the first and second driven arrangements is operable for ensuring that both first and second rotatable members rotate synchronously in contra rotating manner.

[0098] In an embodiment, the biasing means and / or said respective means for tensioning of the belts of the first and second driven arrangements is varied or adjusted so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second rotatable members, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material the equipment.

[0099] In an embodiment, the feed assembly may be used with or incorporated within decorticator equipment or machinery. In one form, an embodiment provides a decorticator comprising any embodiment of the feed assembly described herein.

[0100] In an embodiment, the drive assembly may be used with or incorporated within decorticator equipment or machinery. In one form, an embodiment provides a decorticator comprising any embodiment of the drive assembly described herein. In an aspect, an embodiment provides a beater drum for use operable use in a decorticator machine or equipment, the beater drum being configured or arranged in substantial accordance with any of the embodiments of the first part or the beater drum described above or as otherwise described herein.

[0101] In an aspect, an embodiment provides a decorticator or decorticator equipment comprising any embodiment of an assembly for use with equipment operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state described herein. In one embodiment, the decorticator or decorticator equipment comprises any embodiment of a feed assembly for use with equipment operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state.

[0102] In an aspect, an embodiment provides a method for use in extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the method comprising: providing or harvesting raw material, stripping the raw material for extracting fibrous content by way of an apparatus or fibre extraction equipment having an assembly (which may be an extraction assembly) comprising: a first part having an axis and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly, the first part comprising or carrying a plurality of material engaging portions, a second part spaced relative the first part so that, during operation of the assembly, the rotating plurality of material engaging portions and the second part cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing force(s) for extraction of the fibre, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged with the first part so as to be operable for maintaining substantially continuous and even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating material engaging portions as the raw material passes between the first and second parts during operation of the assembly, and collecting the extracted fibrous content resulting from operation of the assembly.

[0103] The assembly is an embodiment of the assembly as described herein.

[0104] In an embodiment, the method further comprises forming a yarn or tape from the extracted natural fibre, for example, a phormium fibre extracted using an embodiment of the assembly as described herein and or prepared from the extraction method of the present aspect.

[0105] The collected fibrous content may be subject to any of the following methods or processes as described herein: a drying process, a hackling process, a scutching process, a chemical treatment process, a carding process, a spinning process.

[0106] An embodiment provides a method of forming a textile or fabric as described herein, or forming any composite material as described herein, using phormium fibre extracted using an embodiment of the assembly as described herein and or prepared from the extraction method of the present aspect.

[0107] An embodiment provides a textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprises a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of fibres being arranged about an axis of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method of fibre extraction described herein.

[0108] In some embodiments, the plurality of hollow fibres may be arranged so as to be substantially coaxial with the axis of the textile. The respective axes of the hollow fibres may extend generally in accordance with the axis of the textile. Respective hollow regions of the hollow fibres may extend in substantially in accordance with a respective axis of the relevant hollow fibre. The plurality of hollow fibres may be associated with adjacent hollow fibres by way of twisting or wrapping of the fibres together. The plurality of hollow fibres may be associated with adjacent fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The plurality of the fibres may be a first set of fibres, and wherein the textile comprises one or more further sets of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged about the axis of the textile. The or each further set of hollow or solid fibres may be associated with the first set of fibres by way of twisting or wrapping of the sets of fibres together (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The or each further set of hollow or solid fibres may be associated with the first set of fibres and or each other by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The or each further set of hollow or solid fibres may be any of: non-natural fibres, synthetic fibres, carbon fibres, fibreglass fibres, Kevlar® fibres. One or more sets of fibres may be arranged so as to run in accordance with or relative the axis in a substantially helical or non-helical manner. Any of the latter configurations may be used to provide a yarn.

[0109] An embodiment provides a textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprises a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of hollow fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing a respective layer of said fibres running in accordance with an axis of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method of fibre extraction described herein.

[0110] In some embodiments, respective axes of the hollow fibres may extend generally in accordance with the axis of the textile. Respective hollow regions of the hollow fibres may extend substantially in accordance with a respective axis of the relevant hollow fibre. The plurality of hollow fibres may be associated with adjacent fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The plurality of the hollow fibres may be a first set of fibres forming said respective layer, and wherein the textile may comprise one or more further sets of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing one or more further respective layers. The hollow or solid fibres may form a respective layer are associated with adjacent fibres of the relevant layer by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement. The first and second layers of fibres may be arranged in stacked relation, the first and second layers of fibres being arranged at an angle with respective to each other having regard to a direction their respective fibres extend or run. The first and second layers of fibres may be arranged in stacked relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a biaxial configuration. The textile may further comprise a third set of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing a third respective layer of fibres, and wherein the first, second and third layers of fibres may be arranged in stacked relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a triaxial configuration. A layer of fibres may be associated with an adjacent layer of fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). One or more of further sets of fibres may be any of: non-natural fibres, synthetic fibres, carbon fibre, fibreglass fibres, Kevlar® fibres. The first set of plurality of fibres and or one or more of the further sets of fibres may be derived from phormium plant. Any of the latter configurations may be used to provide a tape.

[0111] Furthermore, an embodiment provides a textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile may comprise one or more first textiles arranged in accordance with any of the textiles described herein, and / or one or more second textiles arranged in accordance with any of the textiles described herein.

[0112] An embodiment may provide a textile for use in forming a composite material. The textile may comprise a first layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin. The plurality of hollow fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the first layer. The textile may comprise a second layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres, the plurality of hollow or solid fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer. The first and second layers may be arranged in stacked or layered relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a biaxial, a weave, or a twill configuration of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method of extraction described herein.

[0113] An embodiment may provide a textile for use in forming a composite material. The textile may comprise a first layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin. The plurality of hollow fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the first layer. The textile may comprise a second layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres. The second set of hollow or solid fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer. The textile may comprise a third layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres. The third set of hollow or solid fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer. The first, second, and third layers may be arranged in stacked or layered relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a triaxial, a weave, or a twill configuration of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method of extraction described herein.

[0114] An embodiment may provide a fabric comprising or formed from one or more embodiments of a textile, any of which textiles may be as those described herein or otherwise. An embodiment may provide a composite material comprising or formed from any embodiment of a textile as described herein, and / or any embodiment of a fabric as described herein or otherwise. An embodiment may provide a composite material comprising a textile arranged according to any embodiment described herein, and / or any embodiment of a fabric as described herein, wherein the textile or fabric, whichever is relevant, may be substantially encapsulated, enveloped or impregnated by or with a cured or uncured resin.

[0115] An embodiment provides a method of modifying fibre extraction equipment or machinery (such as for example, decorticator equipment or machinery) so as to be operable with any embodiment of the assembly described herein.

[0116] An embodiment provides a method for use in extracting a natural fibre from its raw state as described above or as otherwise described herein, further comprising forming a textile as described above or as otherwise described herein, or forming a fabric according as described above or as otherwise described herein, or forming a composite material as described above or as otherwise described herein, wherein the raw material comprises at least phormium, and wherein fibre from the phormium is extracted or processed using equipment, machinery or a decorticator comprising an assembly as described above or as otherwise described herein and / or a feed assembly as described above or as otherwise described herein.

[0117] An embodiment provides a textile as described above or as otherwise described herein, or a fabric according as described above or as otherwise described herein, or a composite material as described above or as otherwise described herein, wherein a constituent raw material comprises at least phormium, and wherein fibre from the phormium is extracted or processed using equipment, machinery or a decorticator comprising an assembly as described above or as otherwise described herein and / or a feed assembly as described above or as otherwise described herein.

[0118] Various aspects and embodiments described herein can be practiced alone or combination with one or more of the other aspects, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. The various aspects can optionally be provided in combination with one or more of the optional features described in relation to the other aspects. Furthermore, optional features described in relation to one example (or embodiment) can optionally be combined alone or together with other features in different examples or embodiments.

[0119] For the purposes of summarising the aspects, certain aspects, advantages and novel features have been described herein above. It is to be understood, however, that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimises one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0120] It is to be understood that each document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is expressly incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, which means that it should be read and considered by the reader as part of this text. That the document, reference, patent application, or patent cited in this text is not repeated herein is merely for reasons of conciseness.

[0121] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication, act or item of knowledge is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country as at the priority date of the present application. Such information is included only for the purposes of providing context for facilitating an understanding of the inventive concept / principles and the various forms or embodiments in which those inventive concept / principles is / are exemplified.

[0122] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0123] The present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying non-limiting drawings, in which:

[0124] Figure 1a shows an elevation cross-section view of one embodiment of an assembly arranged in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0125] Figure 1 b shows an elevation cross-section view of another embodiment of an assembly arranged in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0126] Figure 2a shows a perspective view of the cross-section view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1a.

[0127] Figure 2b shows a perspective view of the cross-section view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 b.

[0128] Figure 3a shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a beater drum arranged in accordance with the present disclosure used in the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0129] Figure 3b shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a beater drum arranged in accordance with the present disclosure for operable use with the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0130] Figure 3c shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a beater drum arranged in accordance with the present disclosure for operable use with the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1b and 2b. Figure 4 shows: (a) an elevation view of one embodiment of an end support (provided in the form of an eccentric bushing) used for supporting the embodiment of a beater bar used in the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1 and 2; (b) an elevation view of the embodiment of the beater bar used in the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1 and 2; and (c) an end view of the embodiment of the beater bar shown in Figure 4(b).

[0131] Figure 5 shows: (a) a perspective view of an embodiment of the eccentric bushing shown in Figure 4(a); and (b) an end view of the eccentric busing shown in (a).

[0132] Figure 6 shows the effect of the eccentric configuration of the embodiment of the eccentric bushings used to support the embodiment of the beater bar shown in Figures 4 and 5: (a) a schematic depiction (from an end view aspect) of the operation of the eccentric bushing shown in Figures 4 and 5, in a first position where the outer surface of the beater bar is spaced at about 0.05mm from the exterior profile of the beater drum shown in Figures 1 through 3; (b) a second position in which the eccentric bushing is rotated about 90 degrees counterclockwise from the view shown in (a) causing the outer surface of the beater bar to be spaced about 1 .05mm from the exterior profile of the beater drum; and (c) a third position in which the eccentric bushing is rotated about 180 degrees counterclockwise from the view shown in (a) causing the outer surface of the beater bar to be spaced about 2.05mm from the exterior profile of the beater drum.

[0133] Figure 7 shows a flow chart of a method or process for preparing a fibre from its raw form for use in forming a textile or a constituent used in forming a textile.

[0134] Figure 8 shows: (a) a perspective diagrammatic view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a yarn in the context of the present disclosure; (b) a perspective diagrammatic view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a tape in the context of the present disclosure.

[0135] Figure 9 shows: (a) a perspective diagrammatic view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a yarn in the context of the present disclosure; (b) a perspective diagrammatic view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a tape in the context of the present disclosure.

[0136] Figure 10 shows: (a) a diagrammatic perspective view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a triaxial weave in the context of the present disclosure; (b) a diagrammatic perspective view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a biaxial weave in the context of the present disclosure; and (c) a diagrammatic perspective view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a biaxial weave in the context of the present disclosure; and (d) a diagrammatic perspective view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a twill weave in the context of the present disclosure.

[0137] Figure 11 shows (a) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a fabric weave in the context of the present disclosure; (b) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a twill tape weave in the context of the present disclosure; (c) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a twill yarn weave in the context of the present disclosure; (d) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a biaxial non-woven yarn in the context of the present disclosure; (e) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a biaxial non-woven tape in the context of the present disclosure; (f) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a stretched biaxial yarn weave in the context of the present disclosure; (g) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a stretched biaxial tape in the context of the present disclosure (the squiggle shown stretching holding the layers of textile together); (h) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a unidirectional yarn in the context of the present disclosure; (i) a diagrammatic cross-section view showing an example of a constituent configuration of a unidirectional yarn in the context of the present disclosure.

[0138] Figure 12a shows a cross-section elevation view of one embodiment of a feed assembly configured operable with the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1a to 2a.

[0139] Figure 12b shows a cross-section elevation view of another embodiment of a feed assembly configured operable with the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1 b to 2b.

[0140] Figure 12c shows a perspective view of the embodiment of feed assembly shown in Figure 12b.

[0141] Figure 13a shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a drive assembly configured operable for operating the embodiment of the feed assemble shown in Figure 12a.

[0142] Figure 13b shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a drive assembly configured operable for operating the embodiment of the feed assemble shown in Figure 12b.

[0143] Figure 14 shows a further schematic diagram of the embodiment of the drive assembly shown in Figure 13.

[0144] Figure 15 shows a schematic diagram of a bearing mount used in the embodiment of a bearing mount used with the drive assembly shown in Figure 14.

[0145] Figure 16 shows an image of the embodiment shown in Figure 14 as enabled in a fibre extraction machine consistent with the present disclosure.

[0146] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a beater bar arrangement used in the embodiment of the assembly shown in Figures 1 b and 2b.

[0147] Figure 18a shows an end view of the embodiment of the beater bar arrangement shown in Figure 17.

[0148] Figure 18b shows a cross-section view of that shown in Figure 18a. Figures 19a-c show a respective perspective views of the embodiment of the beater bar arrangement shown in Figures 17 to 18, when the beater bar is adjusted between first (Figure 19a), second (Figure 19b), and third (Figure 19c) spacings from the drum.

[0149] In the figures, like elements are referred to by like numerals throughout the views provided. The skilled reader will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and / or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to facilitate an understanding of the various embodiments exemplifying the principles described herein. Also, common but well understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to provide a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein adopt the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

[0150] It should be noted that the figures are schematic only and the location and disposition of the components can vary according to the particular arrangements of the embodiment(s) as well as of the particular applications of such embodiment(s).

[0151] Specifically, reference to positional descriptions, such as ‘lower’ and ‘upper’, and associated forms such as ‘uppermost’ and ‘lowermost’, are to be taken in context of the embodiments shown in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the scope of the principles described herein to the literal interpretation of the term, but rather as would be understood by the skilled reader.

[0152] Embodiments described herein may include one or more range of values (eg. pressure ratios, volumetric flow rates, mass flow rates, flow densities, specific gravities, specific densities etc). A range of values will be understood to include all values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range.

[0153] Other definitions for selected terms used herein may be found outlined above or within the detailed description below and apply throughout. Unless otherwise defined, all other scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiment(s) relate.

[0154] Detailed Description

[0155] Embodiments of various aspects of the technology of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying Figures. It should be appreciated that the Figures are exemplary only and are not drawn to scale, and only used to describe the features of one or more embodiments.

[0156] Interest in natural fibre is growing. Of particular interest are hollow or partially hollow natural fibres, such as for example, that from the phormium plant leaf. Hollow natural fibres provide multiple functional differences to that of solid fibre, as well as synthetic fibres. Such differences include improved functional vibration damping and energy absorption properties of the fibre in tape and yarn form of any textile configuration. This is due to energy being dissipated through both the interior and exterior surfaces of the hollow natural fibre. This allows users of the material to build energy absorption and vibration damping into the structure of their products, resulting in superior performance in a range of applications. Strength to weight in bending is improved through the hollow nature of the natural fibre allowing advanced force flow through the fibre. The core of solid fibres does not provide much strength as the force travels along the outside surfaces of the fibre. Through having a hollow fibre the unused mass is removed, and the outer surfaces are strengthened. Advanced distribution of stresses throughout the fibre can also be sought enabling efficient transfer of load from matrix to the hollow natural fibre. The alignment of the hollow natural fibre in the tape and yarn form allows for the ease of manufacture to bring fibre into the textile form.

[0157] It is considered that, in innovating relevant processing technology, for at least the above reasons, hollow natural fibres can be used as a replacement to carbon fibre and fibreglass for many applications. Textiles comprising hollow natural fibres have ready use in many industries, such as for example, in the manufacturing of sporting equipment, automotive, marine, geospatial, and use in non-technical textiles for a much broader range of industries.

[0158] One specific hollow natural fibre of specific interest is that derived from the phormium plant. However, existing fibre extraction technologies have not been suited for extracting the fibre at a quality required for use in existing machinery for preparing yarn and tapes from the extracted fibre. As such, the principles of the present disclosure offer an extraction solution that has shown to achieve a higher quality extracted phormium fibre suitable for use in producing yarns and tapes, and consequential fabrics for use in forming composite materials.

[0159] While testing has been focused around the phormium plant (often referred to in New Zealand as harakeke flax), it is considered that the principles of the present disclosure will have application to the extraction of other natural fibres.

[0160] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of an assembly 5 for use in equipment or machinery operable for extracting a hollow natural fibre (hereinafter, natural fibre) from its raw state (eg. from its leaf form). In one form, the assembly 5 is a provided in the form of extraction assembly for operable use with a decorticator for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state. Once prepared or formed, the natural fibre can be used in forming of a range of different types of textiles such as yarns and tapes. As noted, of specific interest in development to date is fibre available from the phormium plant.

[0161] The skilled reader will readily appreciate that embodiments of the assembly 5 described herein may be used with decorticator equipment or machinery.

[0162] Once prepared in yarn or tape form, a range of different configurations of fabrics can be formed for use in making composite materials. As the skilled reader would be aware, textiles and fabrics are used in conjunction with resins to create composite materials. These fabrics, when not used with resin, can be utilised for other purposes.

[0163] In Figures 1 to 2, two embodiments of assemblies 5 (Figures 1a and 2a) and 5’ (Figure 1 b and 2b) arranged consistent with the present disclosure. Figures 1a and 2a show an embodiment of assembly 5, and Figures 1 b and 2b shown an embodiment of an assembly 5’. Figures 3a to 3c show different embodiments of a beater drum 35 (as will be described below). Like references are used for analogous features for ease of explanation and understanding.

[0164] As shown in Figures 1a, 2a, and 3a, the assembly 5 comprises a feeding means provided in the form of a feed assembly 10 configured operable for receiving raw material, generally in the form of a harvested leaf. The feed assembly 10 comprises two counter rotating infeed rollers or gears (hereinafter, infeed gears 15a, 15b) that are spaced from an inlet arrangement 20 by way of which the raw material is fed (through inlet funnel 25) so as to be introduced into the assembly 5 for processing.

[0165] The counter rotating infeed gears 15a, 15b (Figure 2a indicates the direction of rotation of each of the infeed gears 15a (being clockwise rotation C-R), 15b (being counterclockwise rotation CC-R)) are disposed downstream of the input feed funnel 25 and positioned relative to each other so as to be operable for interacting with the raw material sufficiently for drawing it into the assembly 5 for substantially following a pathway 30. As shown in Figure 1a, the pathway 30 comprises three main components: component 30a where the raw material is fed toward the gears 15a, 15b, component 30b where the raw material is being interacted with by the gears 15a, 15b for feeding purposes into the assembly 5 for processing purposes (as will be described below), and component 30c where the raw material is processed by way of its interaction or engagement with a first part 35 (provided in the form of a beater drum) and a second part 50 (provided in the form of a beater bar).

[0166] As shown in Figures 1a and 2a, the infeed gear 15a is disposed lower than the infeed gear 15b. The upper disposed infeed gear 15b is arranged so as to be moveable (translatable) along the axis Z so as that its spacing from the infeed gear 15a can be adjustable so that the operation of both infeed gears 15a, 15b can be modified so as to be capable of providing a consistent pressure on the input leaf so that it is fed into the assembly 5 via the feed assembly 10 at a substantially constant or consistent rate of movement. As will be seen in Figures 1a and 2a, the axis Z is angularly offset from or inclined relative to the vertical plane.

[0167] This constant rate of the movement of the leaf seeks to prevent the leaf from being pulled through the machinery which can cause the leaf to become tangled in the machinery components.

[0168] The assembly 5 comprises a first part 35 having an axis X1 (shown in Figure 2a), and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly 5. In the form shown across the embodiments in Figures 1 to 3, the first part 35 is provided in the form of a beater drum (hereinafter, beater drum 35). As seen in Figure 2a, the beater drum is keyed with a drive shaft 35a and driven / rotated about the X2 during operation by way of a driving assembly (not shown). The direction of rotation of the beater drum 35 is indicated in Figure 2a, being counterclockwise CC-R. As seen in Figure 3a, the beater drum 35 is of annular or cylindrical form.

[0169] With reference to Figures 1 to 3, the beater drum 35 comprises or carries a plurality of material engaging portions 40. As will be described below, the plurality of material engaging portions 40 operate to interact with the raw material as it proceeds along the pathway 30. Hereinafter, the plurality of material engaging portions 40 will be referred to as blades 40.

[0170] The assembly 5 comprises a second part 50 spaced relative the beater drum 35. The second part 50 is provided in the form of a beater bar (hereinafter, beater bar 50). The beater bar 50 is of elongate cylindrical form and has an axis X2. The beater bar 50 is supported generally in position downstream of the infeed gears 15a, 15b by way of support assembly or structure (hereinafter, support assembly 50-S) as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The support assembly 50-S is configured for moveably supporting the beater bar 50 in an eccentric manner so that a space between the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 is selectively adjustable during use (or otherwise) in a measured or controllable manner for accommodating incoming raw material of different or varying thicknesses. As will be described below, the support assembly 50-S comprises eccentric bearings 70a, 70b which support the beater bar 50 so that it is moveable relative to the beater drum 35. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the opposing end regions of the beater bar 50 are respectively supported directly by eccentric bushings 70a, 70b (shown in Figures 4 and 5).

[0171] The beater bar 50 is spaced from the beater drum 35 so that, during operation of the assembly 5, the beater drum 35 and the rotating blades 40 cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing / rubbing force(s) when fed thereto via the feed assembly 10. The shearing / rubbing force(s) operate to expose the raw material to a stripping process as a part of the process for extracting the natural fibre.

[0172] The beater bar 50 is provided static during operation of the assembly 5, but is adjustable by way of the support assembly 50-S by eccentrically configured supports allowing reliable, accurate, and repeatable definition of the spacing between the beater bar 50 and the beater drum 35, as will be described below. The spacing between the blades 40 of the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 during operation of the assembly 5 can be between about 0.20mm to about 0.4m. In some embodiments for specific plants, such as for example phormium, the spacing can be about 0.25mm, or about 0.3mm. It will be appreciated that the spacing may differ for specific plants.

[0173] As noted above, the axis Z is angularly offset from or inclined relative to the vertical plane. The Z axis is offset at an angle to vertical plane so as to be at a tangent to the circumference of the drum 35, so that when the leaf is fed into the assembly, it can be effectively stripped between the drum 35 and the beater bar 50. In some embodiments, the Z axis may be angularly offset from the vertical plane, or aligned with the vertical plane (see the embodiment in Figures 1 b and 2b). In some situations, if the Z axis was not angularly offset to the vertical plane, the leaf would need to travel too far to get to the stripping engagement point, and likely get tangled / not strip properly.

[0174] For the embodiment shown, the harvested leaf is drawn into the assembly 5 at a rate of about 1 .5 to about 3 seconds per leaf (via manual feeding). During this time the leaf is feed into the assembly 5 at a matched speed for the beater drum 35 to interact with the plant leaf so as to remove the cellulose, moisture and other organic compounds from the material allowing remaining fibrous content to drop vertically onto a conveyor belt provided below the assembly 5. From here, as the skilled reader would be aware, the extracted fibrous content is dried.

[0175] Broadly, and with reference to Figures 1a, 2a, and 3a, the blades 40 are configured in a specific manner with the beater drum 35 so as to be operable during operation of the assembly 5 for maintaining substantially continuous and even contact or engagement with the raw material (leaf) when transitioning between successive rotating blades 40 as the raw material passes (along pathway 30c as shown in Figures 1 and 2) between the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 during operation. In this manner, removal of the cellulose, moisture and other unwanted organic compounds can be affected in a more even and consistent manner greatly influencing the quality of the extracted fibre.

[0176] Existing processes to date involving the stripping processing of raw phormium leaf have not been able to achieve a quality of fibre that has been acceptable as input into existing or industry standard machinery that form yarn and tapes textiles from input fibres. This has prevented phormium being useable for high performing composite materials. Based on Applicant’s development in this technical area to date, existing decorticator equipment provides less working time to the raw phormium leaf during stripping processing. As will be described below, and particularly for the case of phormium, the inventors have recognised that increasing the working engagement time of the raw material, but not to the point of damaging the raw material, is highly influential in the quality of the fibre extracted from the leaf during the stripping process. The principles of the present disclosure have produced a quality of phormium fibre that is acceptable as an input into existing yarn / tape machines enabling textiles / fabrics to be formed for use in making high performing composite materials.

[0177] Figure 1 b and Figure 2b show another embodiment 5’ of the assembly 5. References for like or analogous features will be retained, but using the “prime” indicator. The assembly 5’ comprises a feeding means provided in the form of a feed assembly 10’ configured operable for receiving raw material, generally in the form of a harvested leaf. The feed assembly 10’ comprises two counter rotating infeed rollers or gears (hereinafter, infeed gears 15’a, 15’b) that are spaced from an inlet arrangement 20’ by way of which the raw material is fed (through inlet funnel 25’) so as to be introduced into the assembly 5’ for processing. The infeed gears 15’a, 15’b are connected with their respective rotating shafts 15’a-s, 15’b-s by way of respective shaft locking rings for transferring torque and to hold the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b secure to the respective shafts 15’a-s, 15’b-s.

[0178] The counter rotating infeed gears 15’a, 15’b (Figure 2b indicates the direction rotation of each of the infeed gears 15’a (being clockwise rotation C-R), 15’b (being counterclockwise rotation CC-R)) are disposed downstream of the input feed funnel 25’ and positioned relative to each other so as to be operable for interacting with the raw material sufficiently for drawing it into the assembly 5’ for substantially following a pathway 30’.

[0179] As shown in Figures 1 b and 2b, the infeed gear 15’a is disposed lower than the infeed gear 15’b. The upper disposed infeed gear 15’b is arranged so as to be moveable (translatable) along the axis Z’ so that its spacing from the infeed gear 15’a can be adjustable so that the operation of both infeed gears 15’a, 15’b can be modified so as to be capable of providing consistent pressure on the input leaf so that it is fed into the assembly 5’ via the feed assembly 10’ at a substantially constant or consistent rate of movement for the reasons described above in relation to the assembly 5’.

[0180] The infeed gears 15’a, 15’b are connected or keyed with their respective shafts (15’a-s, 15’b-s) by way of respective shaft locking ring assemblies that operate for transferring torque and to hold the drum secure to the respective shafts (15’a-s, 15’b-s). No keyways are used as shown for the embodiment of the assembly 5’ shown in Figures 1 b and 2b.

[0181] As will be seen in Figures 1 b and 2b, and which is a substantive change from the embodiment of the assembly 5 shown in Figures 1a and 2a, the axis Z’ is aligned with the vertical plane. To achieve this configuration, the relative positioning of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b, and another embodiment of a beater bar 50’ (see Figures 17 to 19c) have been rotated about the axis X1 of beater drum 35 of the assembly 5 (shown in Figure 1a) so that the respective axes of rotation of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b are aligned in the vertical plane. In this manner, the relative configuration of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b, the beater drum 35” and the beater bar 50’ are functionally equivalent to the analogous components of the assembly 5. The vertical alignment of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b enables the raw leaf to be fed into the machine substantially horizontally which is easier (for loading feeding of the raw leaf into the assembly 5’) resulting in reduced complexity in the leaf path (which is considered to facilitate less risk the leaf tangling during processing) than when the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b are angularly offset. As will be described below, a further advantage is that the vertical alignment of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b enables the belt pathways of the drive assembly driving the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b to be simpler (refer the embodiment shown in Figure 13b as compared the embodiment shown in Figure 13a). In all, the vertical alignment of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b serves to reduce risk of the lead tangling during processing and / or a simpler driving belt configuration.

[0182] The assembly 5’ comprises an embodiment of a beater drum 35” (ie. an embodiment of the first part 35) provided in the form of the beater drum 35” shown in Figure 3c. The assembly 5’ could also be operable with the embodiments of the beater drum 35 and 35’. The embodiment of the beater drum 35” is provided having an axis X1 ” (shown in Figure 2b), and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly 5’. As seen in Figures 1 b and 2b, the beater drum 35” is keyed with a drive shaft 35”a and driven / rotated about the axis X2” during operation by way of a driving assembly (not shown).The direction of rotation of the beater drum 35” is indicated in Figure 2b, being counterclockwise CC-R. The beater drum 35” is connected with the shaft 35”a by way of a shaft locking ring for transferring torque and to fold the drum secure to the shaft 35”a. No keyways are used as shown for the embodiment of the assembly 5’ shown in Figures 1b and 2b. The beater drum 35” is configured in a generally similar manner as for the drums 35 and 35’. With reference to Figures 1 b to 2b, the beater drum 35” comprises or carries a plurality of material engaging portions or blades 40”. The blades 40” are arranged in the manner shown in Figure 3c and described below. As will be described below, the plurality of material engaging portions 40” operate to interact with the raw material as it proceeds along the pathway 30”.

[0183] The assembly 5’ comprises an embodiment 50’ (shown in Figures 17 and 18a / b, and described below) of the beater bar 50’ spaced relative the beater drum 35” in the manner shown and described above. The beater bar 50’ is of elongate cylindrical form and has an axis X2”. The beater bar 50’ is supported generally in position downstream of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b by way of support assembly 5O’-S as shown in Figures 1 b and 2b (the general area where the support assembly 5O’-S is located is shown). The support assembly 5O’-S is configured for moveably supporting the beater bar 50’ in an eccentric manner so that a space between the beater drum 35” and the beater bar 50’ is selectively adjustable during use (or otherwise) in a measured or controllable manner for accommodating incoming raw material of different or varying thicknesses. As will be described below, the support assembly 5O’-S comprises eccentric bearings 70’a, 70’b which support the beater bar 50’ so that it is moveable relative to the beater drum 35”. As shown in Figures 17 and 18a / b, the opposing end regions of the beater bar 50’ are respectively supported directly by eccentric bushings 70’a, 70’b (shown in Figures 17 and 18a / b).

[0184] The beater bar 50” is spaced from the beater drum 35” so that, during operation of the assembly 5’, the beater drum 35” and the rotating blades 40” cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing / rubbing force(s) when fed thereto via the feed assembly 10’. The shearing / rubbing force(s) operate to expose the raw material to a stripping process as a part of the process for extracting the natural fibre.

[0185] As with the beater bar 50 described above, the beater bar 50” is provided static during operation of the assembly 5’, but is adjustable so as to compensate for different leaf types by eccentrically configured supports allowing reliable, accurate, and repeatable definition of the spacing between the beater bar 50’ and the beater drum 35”, as will be described below. The spacing between the blades 40” of the beater drum 35” and the beater bar 50’ during operation of the assembly 5’ can be between about 0.20mm to about 0.4m. In some embodiments for specific plants, such as for example phormium, the spacing can be about 0.25mm, or about 0.3mm. It will be appreciated that the spacing may differ for specific plants. It is considered that enabling a spacing (between the beater bar 50’ and the blades 40”) to be of this order allows the fibre to be substantially unbroken during the process yet become exposed. In one form of operation of the assemblies 5, 5’, the spacing is preset and remains constant for one time period of operation (or stripping activity). This is considered to a contributory element in removing outside gels and green matter without damaging the fibre.

[0186] For the embodiment of the assembly 5’ shown, the harvested leaf is drawn into the assembly 5’ at a rate of about 1 .5 to about 3 seconds per leaf (via manual feeding). During this time the leaf is feed into the assembly 5’ at a matched speed for the beater drum 35” to interact with the plant leaf so as to remove the cellulose, moisture and other organic compounds from the material allowing remaining fibrous content to drop almost vertically onto a conveyor belt (but could involve other transportation or conveyance devices / systems) provided below the assembly 5’.

[0187] Reference is made now to Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c, which show respective perspective views of different embodiments of the beater drum 35 (35, 35’, and 35”, collectively referred to as the beater drum 35) that is shown operable with the assembly 5 seen in Figures 1 and 2. Of course, it will be appreciated that the embodiment of the beater drum 35” is used in the embodiment of the assembly 5’ shown in Figures 1 b and 2b.

[0188] Reference is now made to Figure 3a show a perspective view of the embodiment of the beater drum 35 that is shown operable with the assembly 5 seen in Figures 1 and 2.

[0189] It will be seen in Figure 3a that the beater drum 35 is of annular or cylindrical form and extends along the axis X1 providing first 35a (top side seen in Figure 3a) and second 35b (underside seen in Figure 3a) opposite ends which define a circumferential lateral side 35c therebetween running about its axis X1 . In one sense, the general form or profile of the drum beater 35 is reminiscent of a wheel hub.

[0190] As will be seen in Figure 3a, the blades 40 are disposed at or near the circumferential lateral side 35c of the beater drum 35 generally coaxial with its axis X1 . Each of the blades 40 are shaped so as to be substantially straight having substantially parallel edges. It will be clearly seen that the blades 40 are arranged relative each other so that adjacent or neighbouring blades 40 are disposed or positioned at an angle to each other. For the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3a, the angle at which adjacent or neighbouring blades 40 are positioned relative each other is between from about 18 degrees to about 22 degrees, or, in one embodiment, about 19.4 degrees. As will be seen, in this manner, the arrangement of the blades 40 is in the form of a zig-zag pattern (with each extending between the sides 35a, 35b about a mid-plane between said sides) coaxial with the axis X1 about the circumferential lateral side 35c of the beater drum 35.

[0191] Thus, the blades 40 are therefore arranged relative each other in a generally zig-zag manner running substantially continuous along the circumferential direction of the circumferential lateral side 35c substantially coaxial with the axis X1 . This zig-zag configuration provides the blades 40 of the beater drum 35 with an angled exit and entry (relative to the motion toward the raw material to be engaged) and is coaxial with the centre of the beater drum 35.

[0192] Having regard to the axis X1 as a reference, the blades 40 are arranged relative to the axis X1 at an angle of between from about 8 degrees to about 12 degrees, or, in one embodiment, about 9.7 degrees.

[0193] As will be seen in Figure 3a, adjacently disposed end portions of adjacent or neighbouring blades 40 are configured so as to, as best possible, substantially connect so as to enable a substantially consistent and / or even transition from one to other. Reference is had to blades 40a, 40b, and 40c seen in Figure 3a. It will be seen that respective end portions of blades 40a and 40b at the side 35a of the beater drum 35 are slightly spaced from one another (as close as possible circumferentially) so that transitioning from one to the next confers a substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material during operation of the assembly 5. Furthermore, at side 35b of the beater drum 35, it will be seen that similar is the case for end portions of blades 40b and 40c. In this manner, as the beater drum 35 rotates and engages with the raw material passing through the space between the drum 35 and the beater bar 50, a substantially consistent and even contact or engagement with the raw material is maintained as successive rotating blades 40 transition from one to the next as the raw material passes (along pathway 30b as shown in Figures 1 and 2) between the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50.

[0194] Accordingly, an advantage of the arrangement of the blades 40 in this manner about the periphery of the beater drum 35 is considered to provide a more constant / consistent and evened contact / engagement or interaction with the raw material by the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 which has been found to provide for a more even, consistent and reliable stripping quality. Existing beater drums have a much more significant intermittent gap between the blades and the beater bar providing far less consistent cutting of the raw material for fibre extraction purposes (ie. cutting away the unwanted material so as to leave only the desirous fibrous content).

[0195] This means of substantially continuous / even contact or engagement with the raw material by the blades 40 is considered to be advantageous in maximising consistency and evenness of the engagement of the raw material as it passes between the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50. The inventors have recognised that this increase in the consistency and evenness of the engagement time of the raw material, particularly for the case of phormium leaf, is highly influential in the quality of the fibre extracted from the leaf thereby enabling it to be used in existing process for forming useful yarns and tape textiles (and downstream fabrics, composite materials). Accordingly, increasing the contact residence time of the raw material between the beater bar 50 and the blades 40 of the beater drum 35, in an even and consistent manner, has shown in testing to date to result in a far superior quality of phormium fibre than previously known efforts.

[0196] As noted, existing processes to date involving the stripping processing of raw phormium leaf have not been able to achieve a quality of fibre that has been acceptable as input into existing or industry standard machinery that form yarn and tapes textiles from input fibres. This is now thought to be due to the beater drum 35 configurations where the material engaging portions (or blades) were disconnected from each other (having an intermittent gap between the blades and the beater bar which is now considered to be conducive of a less consistent and even interaction with the leaf) and therefore enabled less consistent and even contact with the raw material. As such, and to the Applicant’s current knowledge, phormium has not prior to the Applicant’s efforts in this technical field been processed to a level of quality that has enabled a phormium fibre-based textile (yarn or tape) of appropriate quality to be produced for use in forming a high-performance composite material. The engagement of the raw material between the beater bar 50 (and beater bar 50’) and the embodiment of the arrangement of the blades 40 (and blades 40’, 40”) shown in Figures 1 to 3, has shown to result in a quality of phormium fibre that is superior in view of known efforts which do not use such a configuration as proposed herein. In another aspect, the generally zig-zag manner of the arrangement of the blades 40 along the circumferential direction of the circumferential lateral side 35c of the beater drum 35 is considered to advantageously bias or prejudice the raw material toward a central region between the first 35a and second ends 35b of the beater drum 35, thereby enabling the raw material to self-centre or self-align when engaged by the beater drum 35 and the blades 40 during operation of the assembly 5. An advantageous effect of this biasing behaviour serves to increase the exposure of the raw material to the working by the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 in a more consistent and even manner during the extraction process.

[0197] As the beater drum 35 rotates, one of the straight edges of each blade 40 is a leading edge and the alternate straight edge is a trailing edge. As will be understood in the context of the beater drum 35 rotating, the leading edge precedes the trailing edge relative to a direction of rotation of the beater drum 35 about the axis X1 .

[0198] Not readily clear in Figure 3a, the leading edge of each respective blade 40 is rounded having a radius. In an embodiment, the radius of the leading edge is about 0.5mm. It is understood that the radius providing with the leading-edge assists in reducing the risk of damage occurring to the raw material as it is subject to the stripping process. Furthermore, the presence of the radius on the leading edge seeks to prevent cutting or severing of the fine fibre and provides more of a shearing / rubbing action to output continuous fibre.

[0199] Furthermore, and again not readily clear in Figure 3a, each blade 40 leading edge is angled so as to provide a stroke that is continuously interacting with the raw material. In one form, the leading edge of each blade 40 is arranged so as to be slightly lower than the trailing edge. With the blades 40 connected end for end in the zig-zag manner shown, a generally continuous and evened contact / engagement is achieved between the blades (as a collective) and the raw material.

[0200] It will be seen that the embodiment of the beater drum 35 has recesses or depression regions 40-R (a plurality of the recess or depression regions 40-R exist about the perimeter of the drum 35 as shown - only two are identified) between the ends of adjacent blades 40 as for the embodiment of the beater drum 35. As can be seen in Figure 3a, each of the recess or depression regions 40-R are of generally shallow depth.

[0201] Figure 3b shows another embodiment of a beater drum 35’ having a similar arrangement of blades 40’ provided thereabout its circumferential side 35c’. Like references are used for analogous features for ease of explanation and understanding. In the arrangement shown in Figure 3b, the respective ends of adjacent or neighbouring blades 40’ are substantially connected so as to be operable for maintaining substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating blades 40’ as the raw material passes between the beater drum 35’ and beater bar 50 during operation of the assembly 5. It will be seen that the embodiment of the beater drum 35’ has similar recesses or depression regions between the ends of adjacent blades 40’ as for the embodiment of the beater drum 35. Figure 3c shows another embodiment of a beater drum 35” having a similar arrangement of blades 40” provided thereabout its circumferential side 35c”. Like references are used for analogous features for ease of explanation and understanding. In the arrangement shown in Figure 3c, the respective ends of adjacent or neighbouring blades 40” are, like the beater drum 35’, connected so as to be operable for maintaining substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating blades 40” as the raw material passes between the beater drum 35” and beater bar 50 during operation of the assembly 5. It will be seen that the embodiment of the beater drum 35” has more pronounced recesses or depression regions between the ends of adjacent blades 40”. It is considered that this has advantages in simplification of manufacturing by reducing complexity for casting thereby simplifying machining processes.

[0202] The beater drum 35 (and the further embodiments 35’, 35”, but collectively, the beater drum 35) may be formed in a number of ways. In an embodiment, the beater drum 35 may be cast. In one form, the beater drum 35 may be made from SGNiResist Iron material at high tolerance levels. Advantages of this material and the accuracy of fabrication facilitates reducing wear and tear and increases the maintenance, consistency and reliability in the condition of the leading edges of the blades 40 (and the further embodiments 40’, 40”, but collectively, the blades 40) in operation in achieving high quality and consistent stripping of the natural fibre for commercial production requirements - something not achieved before for the case of at least phormium plant.

[0203] In an embodiment, the blades 40 may be formed by way of a machining process involving a cast body (of SGNiResist Iron material). In another embodiment, each of the blades 40 may be formed as respective protrusions in the circumferential lateral side 35c or by way of the machining of a depression in the circumferential lateral side.

[0204] The skilled reader will appreciate that methods involving the making of modifications to existing equipment or machinery (for example, decorticator equipment or machinery) so as to adopt the beater drum 35 configuration described herein fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure.

[0205] By way of brief geometrical context of a non-limiting nature, in one embodiment, the beater drum 35 may comprise about 300mm in diameter, and about 145mm between its first 35a and second 35b ends.

[0206] The beater bar 50 and its associated arrangement is shown in Figures 4 to 6. Another arrangement involving a beater bar 50’ is shown in Figures 17 to 19.

[0207] For the embodiment shown, and with reference to Figure 4(b), the beater bar 50 is of elongate cylindrical form having first 50a and second 50b opposite end regions, and a circumferential lateral side 50c extending between the first and second opposite end regions. The beater bar 50 has an axis X2 that is, when the beater bar 50 is positioned relative with the beater drum 35 for operation of the assembly 5, substantially parallel with the axis X1 (of the beater drum 35), as seen in Figures 1a and 2a (and which is also the case for the assembly 5’ shown in Figures 1 b and 2b). The circumferential lateral side 50c of the beater bar 50 provides a material engaging surface 50d which engages raw material during use of the assembly 5. The outer diameter of the first 50a and second 50b ends regions is narrower than the material engaging surface 50d which spans a central region of the beater bar 50.

[0208] In an embodiment, the beater bar 50 is formed from induction hardened 4140 steel. As will be described below, the beater bar 50 is adjustable providing the ability for adjusting the position in about 0.05mm increments over a range of about 2.0mm. In one embodiment, supporting of the beater bar 50 in an eccentric manner by the support assembly 50-S enables adjustment of the space between the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 to be selectively adjustable to a resolution having increments that are finer or significantly less than the thickness of the incoming raw material. In one form, supporting of the beater bar 50 in an eccentric manner by the support assembly 50-S enables adjustment of the space between the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 to be selectively adjustable to a high degree of resolution as compared the thickness of the incoming raw material. It is considered that this is a primary advantage of the present disclosure that results in high quality extraction of the phormium leaf. For example, increments of such resolution may be around 0.05mm to about 0.1 mm as compared a thickness of a lead, which could be in the order of about 6.69mm. Put another way, supporting of the beater bar 50 in an eccentric manner by the support assembly 50-S enables selectively adjustable to a resolution having increments less than 1 percent, or up to about 1 .5 percent of the thickness of the incoming leaf.

[0209] By way of brief geometrical context of a non-limiting nature, in one embodiment, the beater bar 50 may be about 314mm in axial length, and about 60mm in diameter (and about 170mm in span) through its central portion (that which engages raw material during operation of the assembly 5).

[0210] With reference to Figure 4 (a), the beater bar 50 is held in position relative the beater drum 35 at the first 50a and second 50b end regions by respective eccentrically formed end supports 70a, 70b (not shown but implied) of the support assembly 50-S that are supported coaxially relative each other in respect of a shared axis X3, ie. the eccentric end supports 70a, 70b share the same axis when supporting the beater bar 50. In the form shown, the eccentric end supports 70a, 70b are provided in the form of bushings (hereinafter, eccentric bushings 70a, 70b). Each of the eccentric bushings 70a (70b) are selectively rotatable about their shared axis so as to enable adjustability of the position of the beater bar 50 relative to the beater drum 35, as will be described below.

[0211] With reference to Figure 5, each eccentric bushing 70a (70b) comprises a respective body 72 having a respective aperture 74 formed or provided therein and dimensioned for receiving a respective end region 50a, 50b of the beater bar 50. The aperture 74 of each respective eccentric bushing 70a, 70b is formed eccentric of the shared axis so as to offset the axis X2 of the beater bar 50 from the shared axis X3 when supporting the beater bar 50 with the assembly 5. In this manner, the eccentric bushings 70a, 70b provide the respective aperture 74 in an eccentric manner so that adjustability of the position of the beater bar 50 relative to the beater drum 35 can be achieved so as to adjust the spacing in a reliable and accurate manner which much finer resolution that has been achieved previously. Each of the eccentric bushings 70a, 70b supporting the beater bar 50 are configured so as to clamp about respective ends 50a, 50b of the beater bar 50.

[0212] A further embodiment of a beater bar 50’ and support assembly 5O’-S arrangement is shown in Figures 17-19. As seen in the embodiment shown in Figures 17-19, rotation of the eccentric bushings 70’a, 70’b can be manually controlled to a high level of resolution enabling more efficient variability and adjustability of the spacing between the beater bar 50 and the drum 35”.

[0213] Figure 6 demonstrates the effect of the eccentric configuration of the embodiment of the eccentric bushings 70 (used in collective sense) of the support assemblies 50-S, 5O’-S used to support the embodiment of the beater bars 50, 50’ shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0214] Figure 6 (a) shows in schematic form (from an end view aspect) of the operation of the eccentric bushing 70 shown in Figures 4 and 5, in a first position where the outer surface of the beater bar 50 is spaced at about 0.05mm (S-1) from the exterior profile of the beater drum 35.

[0215] Figure 6 (b) shows a second position in which the eccentric bushing 70 is rotated about 90 degrees counterclockwise from the view shown in Figure 6 (a) causing the outer surface 50c of the beater bar 50 to be spaced about 1 .05mm (S-2) from the exterior profile of the beater drum 35.

[0216] Figure 6 (c) shows a third position in which the eccentric bushing 70 is rotated about 180 degrees counterclockwise from the view shown in Figure 6 (a) causing the outer surface 50c of the beater bar 50 to be spaced about 2.05mm (S-3) from the exterior profile of the beater drum 35.

[0217] As can be seen in Figure 6, the beater bar 50 eccentric bushing 70 arrangement is analogous to an eccentric automotive camshaft - but a concept not known to be applied to fibre extraction machines. As seen, as the bushings 70a, 70b (holding respective ends of the beater bar 50 in a clamped manner) are rotated, the eccentric position of the beater bar 50 relative to the bushing centre changes, hence the distance of the beater bar 50 relative to the beater drum 35 also changes. By using small incremental movements the beater bar 50 to beater drum 35 gap or space can be adjusted in about 0.05mm increments, thereby enabling fine tuning or customisation of the size of the gap or space to certain requirements. In one operational embodiment, the gap or space is about 0.25mm.

[0218] Accordingly, the eccentric nature of the bushings 70 enables the beater bar 50 to be positioned very accurately relative to the beater drum 35 for defining the space. Furthermore, this accuracy can be repeated consistency across operations from day to day. In an embodiment, this eccentric based configuration allows for from about 0.05mm through to about 2.00 mm space (increments of about 0.05mm) with 0.05mm or less adjustment accuracy and repeatability, providing much better control over stripping output quality. Fine and repeatable adjustments to the space by way of this eccentric bushing 70 arrangement has been showing to achieve consistent accurate quality stripping during testing with phormium leaf. As noted above, Figures 17 to 19 show a further embodiment of a beater bar arrangement 50’ that is operable with the assembly 5’ shown in Figures 1 b and 2b. The beater bar arrangement 50’ comprises much the same componentry and functionality of the beater bar arrangement 50 shown in Figures 4 to 6, however, as can be seen, the beater bar arrangement 50’ is operable with an adjustment means 612 which includes a 2-bar link arrangement that is configured operable for enabling rotation of the eccentric bushings 70’a, 70’b so as to rotate the beater bar 50’ in the manner shown across Figures 6a to 6b. In this manner, the spacing between the beater bar 50’ and the beater drum 35” can be adjusted more efficiently, more safely, and more reliably with better repeatability.

[0219] Specifically, Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the beater bar arrangement 50’ showing shrink rig / disc assemblies 600a, 600b that are configured to hold the beater bar 50’ with respective eccentric bushings 70’a, 70’b as shown. The eccentric bushing 70’a comprises a lever portion 610 which extends outwards from the main body of the bushing. The lever portion 610 rotatably connects with the adjustment means 612 by way of a link member 615. The link member 615 rotatably connects with a travel block 620. The adjustment means 612 comprises a rod screw 625 arranged in threaded connection with the travel block 620. The threaded connection between the rod screw 625 and the travel block 620 enables the travel block 620 to linearly translate along the rod screw 625 on rotation of the rod screw 625. The rod screw 625 is rotatably supported at opposites ends by way of rotatable supports 630, 635 as shown. The rod screw 625 is rotatable about an axis X6. A handle portion (not shown) is provided with the end of the rod screw 625 that is nearest the rotatable support 635 so that the adjustment means 612 can be operated.

[0220] Figure 18a and Figure 18b (cross section taken along the axis X2’ of the beater bar 50’) both show an end view of the beater bar arrangement 50’ shown in Figure 17. Shown specifically in Figure 18b is the configuration of the shrink rig / disc assemblies 600a, 600b (each shrink rig / disc assembly 600a, 600b having respective stepped conical rings 600a-1 , 600b-1 that operate with respective stepped conical bushes 600a-2, 600b-2) that clamp respective 70’a, 70’b bushings to the beater bar 50’. The skilled reader will be aware of the configuration and operation of shrink ring / disc assemblies so no further explanation is required here.

[0221] Figures 19a-c show respective perspective views of the embodiment of the beater bar arrangement shown in Figures 17 to 18, showing stages of adjustment of the beater bar 50’ across first (Figure 19a), second (Figure 19b), and third (Figure 19c) positions of the travel block 620 along the rod screw 625 between the rotatable supports 630, 635 as shown. It will be appreciated that each of the first, second and third positions of the travel block 620 represent respective spacings of the beater bar 50’ from the beater drum 35”.

[0222] With reference to Figures 19a-c, rotation of the screw rod 625 (via a handle portion) causes linear translation of the travel block 620 along the length of the screw rod between the rotatable supports 630, 635. Linear movement of the travel block 620 enables relative movement or articulation between the link member 615 and the lever portion 610 of the eccentric bushing 70’a, causing the eccentric bushing 70’a to rotate. More particularly, linear translation of the travel block 620 to the right of page (from that shown in Figure 19(a)) pushes the link 615 to the right as shown from Figure 19(a) to Figure 19(b). Consequential of this, link 615 pushes on the lever potion 610 at their respective (rotatable) connection points. This causes rotation of the eccentric bushing 70’a in a counter-clockwise manner, which, consistent with the movement pattern shown across Figures 6(a)-6(c), causes to increase the spacing between the beater 50’ and the beater drum 35” as shown in Figure 19(b) and Figure 19(c), ie. the beater bar 50’ is caused to be moved away from the beater drum 35”.

[0223] Thus, the eccentric relationship between the beater bar 50’ and the eccentric bushing 70’a (which also rotates the bushing 70’b due to the fixed relationship between the beater bar and the bushings 70’a / b enabled by the shrink ring / disc assemblies 600a / b) on rotation of the bushing 70’a, causes the beater bar 50’ to be moved relative to the beater drum 35”. It will be appreciated that this movement of the beater bar 50’ is substantially the same functional movement as shown in Figures 6a-6c. It will also be appreciated that the high degree of resolution achieved by this configuration (ie., the spacing that can be adjusted between the beater bar 50’ and beater drum 35”) is also driven the resolution of the threaded engagement between the rod screw and the travel block 620.

[0224] The pair of infeed gears 15a, 15b are arranged to be driven in a synchronous manner by a driving assembly comprising a pulley assembly. Each infeed gear 15a, 15b comprises a circumferential lateral side configured with suitably dimensioned teeth so as to engage raw material introduced into the assembly 5 via the feed assembly 20 to move the raw material toward the beater drum and the beater bar 50 for engagement thereby. However, it will be appreciated that positioning of the infeed gears 15a, 15b relative each other is undertaken with an awareness of not wishing to risk engagement with the raw material being too aggressive so as to damage the material. Furthermore, the aggressiveness of the teeth on the infeed gears 15a, 15b is also a consideration regarding the risk of damage to the raw material.

[0225] The feed assembly 20 is configured so that, during operation of the assembly 5, the infeed gears 15a, 15b are driven in a counter-rotating and / or synchronous manner at about 400 revolutions per minute enabling a raw material feed rate of about 2 metres per second. The driving and pulley assemblies are configured so as to be capable of providing a driving range of the infeed gears 15a, 15b in the order of between about 300 to about 720 revolutions per minute. As noted, acceptable results are obtained when operating at about 400 revolutions per minute.

[0226] Rotatable driving of the beater drum 35 is driven by a driving means at about 2,100 revolutions per minute. The driving means may comprise a motor drive, which could be a 7.5kw or 11 kw motor drive (made by ABB) for example. The skilled reader will be aware of the types of motor drives appropriate for use with the present technology

[0227] The drive and pulley assemblies enable a wide range of speed to be selected so to adjust the assembly 5 for varying leaf stripping requirements. The drive and pulley systems comprise variable speed drives which have a direct torque control function, which enables a higher degree of speed control when heavy loads are applied while stripping large leaf. Figure 12a shows one embodiment of a feed assembly 10 that is operable with the assembly 5. Figure 12b shows another embodiment 10’ of a feed assembly used with the assembly 5’ drawing from the embodiment of the feed assembly 10.

[0228] Figure 13a shows one embodiment of a drive assembly 400 that is configured for operating the embodiment of the feed assembly 10. Figures 14 to 16 show further views of the embodiment of the drive assembly 400.

[0229] Figure 13b shows another embodiment 400’ of a drive assembly, that draws from the embodiment of the drive assembly 400’, that is used for operating the feed assembly 10’ (shown in Figure 12b).

[0230] It will be appreciated that either of the feed 10, 10’ and drive 400, 400’ assemblies can be used with various forms of decorticator equipment.

[0231] In substance, the feed assembly 10 is configured so as to enable raw material, such as for example a leaf (from which a natural fibre is to be extracted such as phormium), to be introduced or fed into the assembly 5 for engagement by way of the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 as described herein.

[0232] The feed assembly 10 is arranged so as to be capable of providing a consistent pressure on the leaf so that it is fed into the assembly 5 via the feed assembly 10 at a substantially constant or consistent rate of movement. This constant rate of the movement of the leaf seeks to prevent the leaf from being pulled through the machinery which can cause the leaf to become wrapped around the beater drum 35. As will be described below, each of the infeed gears 15a, 15b rotate in a synchronous and counter rotating manner (as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 12) so as to enable the leaf to be fed in the appropriate manner for working with the operation of the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50.

[0233] The feed assembly 10 is configured so that the relative positioning between the infeed gears 15a, 15b which defines the space through which an input leaf passes for feeding can be changed in response to a (raw) leaf being introduced having varying thickness at different portions of the leaf. For the embodiment shown, the feed assembly 10 is arranged so that the infeed gear 15b (this being the upper disposed of both infeed gears) is moveable relative to the infeed gear 15a (this being the lower disposed of the infeed gears). To achieve this purpose, the feed assembly 10 comprises a sliding mechanism 220 that is configured so as to support or carry the infeed gear 15b. The sliding mechanism 220 is arranged to be spring loaded so as to enable the infeed gears 15a, 15b to be responsive to the geometry of the leaf (notably its thickness) thereby enabling the pressure applied to the leaf to be consistent.

[0234] Each of the infeed gears 15a, 15b carry a gear or toothed surface, or other like textured surface, that enables sufficient grip to be established with the input leaf material. The gear or toothlike surface is selected so as to not to be too aggressive with the surface of the leaf. Furthermore, the spacing between the infeed gears 15a, 15b is selected so as to also not be too aggressive with the surface of the leaf.

[0235] With reference to Figure 12a, the infeed gear 15a is driven by way of a drive shaft 15a-s, and the infeed gear 15b is driven by way of a drive shaft 15b-s. As will be described below, the drive shaft 15a-s is driven by a first timing belt arrangement 402, and the drive shaft 15b-s is driven by a second timing belt arrangement 404.

[0236] It will be seen that the sliding mechanism 220 comprises a first structure arrangement 200 that is configured for carrying or hosting the drive shaft 15b-s and the infeed gear 15b. The first structure arrangement 200 is arranged so as to be adjusted so as to hold the infeed gear 15b at a desired position relative to the infeed gear 15a - the position of which is fixed. The relative positioning of the infeed gear 15b to the infeed gear 15a may be informed by the average thickness of the leaf or its thinnest thickness.

[0237] As seen in Figure 12a, the first structure arrangement 200 is mounted with a second structure arrangement 250 by way of a connecting structure arrangement 255 so that the first structure arrangement 200 can move or translate along the axis Z relative to the infeed gear 15a. The second structure arrangement 250 is generally fixed or stationary whereby the first structure arrangement 200 is moveable relative to the second structure arrangement 250 along the axis Z.

[0238] Operating between the first 200 and second 250 structure arrangements is a biasing means 260 provided in the form of two coil springs 260a, 260b. The coil springs 260a, 260b are arranged so as to bear against both the first 200 and second 250 structure arrangements so as to bias or prejudice the first structure arrangement 200 toward its desired set point relative to the infeed gear 15a. The coil springs 260a, 260b (collectively, 260) are adjustable so that its biasing effect can be varied as might be required for a specific leaf to be fed into the equipment. The biasing means is configured so as to be variable or adjustable so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the infeed gear / rollers 15a, 15b, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material

[0239] It will be understood that the skilled reader would appreciate that various ways that the infeed roller 15b can be spring loaded relative to the infeed roller 15a.

[0240] The embodiment of the feed assembly 10’ shown in Figure 12b is very similar in construction as that shown for the feed assembly 10 shown in Figure 12a. However, as noted above, for the feed assembly 10’ the axis Z’ along which the infeed gear 15’b is moveable is aligned substantially with the vertical plane, whereas, for the feed assembly 10 the axis Z is angularly offset from the vertical plane. Like the feed assembly 10, the feed assembly 10’ is configured so as to enable raw material to be introduced or fed into the assembly 5’ for engagement by way of the beater drum 35” and the beater bar 50’ as described herein.

[0241] The feed assembly 10’ is arranged so as to be capable of providing a consistent pressure on the leaf so that it is fed into the assembly 5’ via the feed assembly 10’ at a substantially constant or consistent rate of movement. This constant rate of the movement of the leaf seeks to prevent the leaf from being pulled through the machinery which can cause the leaf to become wrapped around the beater drum 35”. As will be described below, each of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b rotate in a counter rotating manner (as shown in Figure 1 b and Figure 12b) so as to enable the leaf to be fed in the appropriate manner for working with the operation of the beater drum 35” and the beater bar 50’.

[0242] The feed assembly 10’ is configured so that the relative positioning between the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b which defines the space through which an input leaf passes for feeding can be changed in response to a (raw) leaf being introduced having varying thickness at different portions of the leaf. For the embodiment shown, the feed assembly 10’ is arranged so that the infeed gear 15’b (this being the upper disposed of both infeed gears) is moveable relative to the infeed gear 15’a (this being the lower disposed of the infeed gears). To achieve this purpose, the feed assembly 10’ comprises a sliding mechanism 220’ that is configured so as to support or carry the infeed gear 15’b. The sliding mechanism 220’ enables the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b to be responsive to the geometry of the leaf (notably its thickness) thereby enabling the pressure applied to the leaf to be consistent.

[0243] Each of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b carry spiral or helical grooves or flutes that enables sufficient grip to be established with the input leaf material. The spiral or helical grooves or flutes are formed so as to not to be too aggressive with the surface of the leaf. Furthermore, the spacing between the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b is selected so as to also not be too aggressive with the surface of the leaf.

[0244] With reference to Figure 12b, the infeed gear 15’a is driven by way of a drive shaft 15’a-s, and the infeed gear 15’b is driven by way of a drive shaft 15’b-s. As will be described below (with reference to Figure 13b), the drive shaft 15’a-s is driven by a first timing belt arrangement 402’, and the drive shaft 15’b-s is driven by a second timing belt arrangement 404’.

[0245] It will be seen that the sliding mechanism 220’ comprises a first structure arrangement 200’ that is configured for carrying or hosting the drive shaft 15’b-s and the infeed gear 15’b. The first structure arrangement 200’ is arranged so as to be adjusted so as to hold the infeed gear 15’b at a desired position relative to the infeed gear 15’a - the position of which is fixed. The relative positioning of the infeed gear 15’b to the infeed gear 15’a may be informed by average thickness of the leaf or its thinnest thickness.

[0246] As seen in Figure 12b, the first structure arrangement 200’ is mounted with a second structure arrangement 250’ by way of a connecting structure arrangement 255’ so that the first structure arrangement 200’ can move or translate along the axis Z’ relative to the infeed gear 15’a. The second structure arrangement 250’ is generally fixed or stationary whereby the first structure arrangement 200’ is moveable relative to the second structure arrangement 250’ along the axis Z’.

[0247] Operating between the first 200’ and second 250’ structure arrangements is a biasing means 260’ provided in the form of a coil spring. The coil spring is arranged so as to bear against both the first 200’ and second 250’ structure arrangements so as to bias or prejudice the first structure arrangement 200’ toward its desired set point relative to the infeed gear 15’a. The coil spring is adjustable so that its biasing effect can be varied as might be required for a specific leaf to be fed into the equipment. Figure 12c shows a perspective view of the embodiment of feed assembly 10’ shown in Figure 12b. It will be seen in Figure 2c that the surface profile of the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b is different to that shown in Figure 1a. The surface profile of the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b are configured having a round profile with spiral or helical like traction grooves or flutes, rather than previous very heavily toothed profile seen with the infeed gears 15a, 15b of the embodiment shown in Figure 1a. Testing to date has shown that the more rounded profile with the spiral / helical traction grooves provides for a more quieter and smoother operation. Furthermore, the round profile of the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b do not need to be timed to mesh accurately, hence simplifying the drive arrangement needed to drive the gears 15a, 15b for synchronous operation.

[0248] The round profile of the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b as shown advantage in increasing the prospects that the raw leaf is fed through in at a generally constant linear speed, which through testing to date has shown less tangling of leaf between the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b and the beater drum 35”. Testing of the embodiment shown in Figure 1a suggested that portions of the raw leaf were caused to travel a longer part before engaging the beater drum 35, resulting in tangling of the leaf.

[0249] Accordingly, in the form shown, the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b have a peripheral surface configured having a plurality of spiral or helically shaped grooves or flutes formed therewith for interacting with raw material being introduced for interaction with the beater bar 50’ and the beater drum 35”, one or more of the spiral of helically shaped grooves of the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b being configured so as to be aligned substantially concentric relative to respective axes about which the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b rotate. In this manner, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b facilitates the raw material (e.g., incoming leaf) being drawn in without damaging or crimping the leaf or the fibres as compared other formations, such as for example, the toothed approach (where teeth portion extend from the peripheral surface of the infeed rollers or the first, second rotatable members). Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b may facilitate centring of the incoming raw material to ensure alignment through the decortication process, hence making more effective decortication. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b may facilitate a substantially constant purchase on the leaf as the grooves / flutes are always constantly engaging the raw material as compared the toothed approach where the engagement is sequential and rhythmic with each tooth. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b may facilitate easier cleaning because there are not sharp or deep recessions such as is present with the toothed approach. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b may facilitate less reliance on timing of the relative rotation of the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b. Furthermore, the spiral or helical flutes or grooves provided with the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b may facilitate quieter and less complex (or clunky) operation less vibration as compared the toothed approach where the teeth hit each other which can send vibrations through the assembly or equipment to the decorticator which may cause balancing issues to the critical and fine tolerance between the beater bar 50’ and beater drum 35”.

[0250] The upper infeed roller 15’b is supported by a shaft 15’a-s and bearings mounted on the sliding blocks

[0251] Sa, Sb that can move up and down along tubes Ta, Tb (seen in Figure 12c) to comply with the incoming leaf thickness, similar in function to the embodiment of Figure 1a. A pair of bracing plates BPa, BPb (on other side, but seen in Figure 12b) to rigidly brace (thereby constraining) the two sliding blocks Sa, Sb together to assist in ensuring that the shaft bearings are protected from heavy axial loads. The configuration of the sliding blocks Sa, Sb and the brace plates BPa, BPb in their movement along in respect of the tubes Ta, Tb helps ensure that the arrangement remains more ‘square’ and is more tolerant of the loadings involved (eg. shaft and bearings being protected from heavy axial loads). Keyways are not used in the assembly 5’ between the infeed rollers 15’a, 15’b and their respective shafts, in favour of respective shaft locking rings.

[0252] Reference is now to made to Figure 13a and Figure 14 which show schematic diagrams of a drive assembly 400 used to drive the infeed gears 15a, 15b of the feed assembly 10. The drive assembly 400 has been designed so as to operate in a safe and efficient manner.

[0253] The drive assembly 400 comprises an arrangement of pulleys and belts that are configured so as to drive each of the infeed gears 15a, 15b with a single motor drive in a counter-rotating direction (relative each other) in synchronisation with each other, while allowing for the upper disposed infeed gear 15b to be translatable along the axis Z as shown in Figure 12a in response to varying thickness of the leaf as each are fed toward the assembly 5 for stripping.

[0254] The operable intention of the feed assembly 10 and the drive assembly 400 is to feed the raw material (ie. leaf) in at a constant rate. This prevents the leaf from being pulled through the machine prematurely and prevents the leaf from being wrapped around the beater drum 35. From those mechanisms working, it allows fibres to be extracted at the quality that is acceptable to be fed into existing tape and yarn machines.

[0255] The drive assembly 400 is configured to operate first 402 and second 404 timing belt arrangements (or driven arrangements) which are arranged so as to rotate respective infeed gears 15a, 15b so that each rotate counter to the other in a contra rotating manner. Both first 402 and second 404 timing belt arrangements are driven by a drive pulley 405. The drive pulley 405 is driven by a motor means or drive (not shown but implied).

[0256] The first timing belt arrangement 402 operates to rotate the infeed gear 15a (lower disposed gear), and the second timing belt arrangement 404 operates to rotate the infeed gear 15b (upper disposed gear).

[0257] As can be seen in Figure 13a, the first timing belt arrangement 402 comprises a timing belt 402a which operates or interacts with a pulley 402b (which drives rotation of the lower disposed infeed gear 15a), a pulley 440, the drive motor pulley 405 (driven by the driving motor means), and a drive transfer pulley 430a of a drive transfer pulley arrangement 430. As can be seen, Figure 13a shows the direction of travel of the timing belt 402a in rotating the infeed gear 15a. For the embodiment shown, the timing belt 402a is provided in the form of a double-sided timing belt (gates twin power timing belt) with elastomeric teeth on both sides which allows high-loading capacity synchronisation from both driving surfaces so as to be driven by the drive motor pulley 405, and also power the drive transfer pulley 430a. The drive motor drives the gates twin power belt 402a. As seen in Figure 13a, the backside of the timing belt 402a (the gates twin power timing belt) drives the drive transfer pulley shaft 605 (see Figure 15) in a contra rotational direction to the rest of the pulleys that the gates twin power belt 402a interacts with.

[0258] The second timing belt arrangement 404 comprises a timing belt 404a which operates or interacts with a pulley 404b (which drives rotation of the upper disposed infeed gear 15b), a pulley 410, the drive transfer pulley 430a, and the pulley 420. As can be seen, Figure 13a shows the direction of travel of the timing belt 404a in rotating the infeed gear 15b. For the embodiment shown, the timing belt 404a is provided in the form of a single-sided timing belt (gates GT single sided timing belt) for transferring power from the drive transfer pulley 430a to the infeed gear 15b. It will be seen that the drive transfer pulley 430a receives drive from the first timing belt 402a of the first timing belt arrangement 402, whereby the timing belt 404a is in driving relation with the drive motor pulley 430a as shown.

[0259] The first timing belt 402a is arranged in driving relation with the pulley 402b so that driving of the belt 402a drives rotation of the pulley 402b, and consequentially the infeed gear 15a. Similarly, the second timing belt 404a is arranged in driving relation with the pulley 404b so that driving of the belt 404a drives rotation of the pulley 404b, and consequentially the infeed gear 15b.

[0260] As can be seen in the Figure 13a, the timing belt 402a (being of gates twin power timing belt) interacts with pulley 402b, pulley 440 and drive pulley 405 on the same side, and with the pulley 430a (via shaft 605) on the alternate side. The timing belt 404a (the single sided timing belt) interacts with the pulley 404b, the pulley 430a and the pulley 410 on the same side of the timing belt 404a.

[0261] Through the drive assembly 400, both of the first 402a and second 404a timing belts are arranged in driving relation with the single motor drive in driving the infeed gears 15a, 15b. The timing belts 402a and 404b are both selected to ensure appropriate timing and synchronisation of the infeed gears 15a, 15b relative to each other during operation. This allows accurate meshing of the infeed gears 15a, 15b to be achieved thereby increasing or maximising leaf feed performance and reducing or minimising any mechanical conflicts between the infeed gears 15a, 15b during operation.

[0262] The drive assembly 400 further comprises first 402-T and second 404-T tensioning arrangements that are operable for tensioning the timing belts 402a, 404a of the respective timing belt arrangements 402, 404. Each of the first 402-T and second 404-T tensioning arrangements enable adjustment of the respective timing belts to ensure appropriate operation of the infeed gears 15a, 15b in feeding leaf into the assembly 5.

[0263] Pulley 420 is fixed in position, but pulley 410 is arranged so as to be moveable as part of a tensioning arrangement 404-T that is configured so as to enable the second timing belt arrangement 404 to be tensioned as needed to enable the appropriate tension to be applied in the timing belt 404a. As seen in Figures 14 and 16, the tensioning arrangement 404-T comprises an arm 450 that carries the pulley 410 and enables it to be rotated about the axis T so as to adjust the belt’s 404a tension. The tensioning arrangement 404-T operates to provide consistent belt tension as the upper infeed gear 15b goes through its travel.

[0264] Pulley 440 is arranged so as to be moveable (by way of being carried on an adjustable slider 460) as part of a tensioning arrangement 402-T that is configured so as to enable the first timing belt arrangement 402 to be tensioned as needed to enable the appropriate tension to be applied in the timing belt 402a. The adjustable tensioning arrangement 402-T on the upper feed pulley 440 is operable with the adjustable slider 460 can be quickly adjusted which can suit varying leaf thickness to ensure constant input feed rate and traction.

[0265] The pulley 440 is driven by the drive motor pulley 405 by way of the double-sided timing belt 402a which drives the lower disposed infeed gear 15a by way of its pulley 402b. In this manner, drive transfers to the drive transfer pulley 430a which drives the single sided timing belt 404a which drives the upper disposed infeed gear 15b by way of its pulley 404b. In operation, the adjustable slider 460 is locked when appropriate tension applied to belt. It is fixed before and during operation.

[0266] The drive transfer pulley 430a is supported by way of a bearing arrangement 430 which is configured so as to support the drive transfer pulley’s 430 driving shaft 430c (Figure 14).

[0267] With reference to Figure 15, an end view of the drive transfer pulley arrangement 430 is shown. As seen, the drive transfer pulley arrangement 430 is supported on structure S which supports bearings 600a and 600b. Bearings 600a, 600b support a drive transfer shaft 605 that is keyed with the pulley 430a. The pulley 430a is configured having a first drive portion 610 which drives the infeed gear 15a via the timing belt 402a of the first timing belt arrangement 402. The pulley 430a is configured having a second drive portion 615 that drives the infeed gear 15b via the timing belt 404a of the second timing belt arrangement 404.

[0268] In this manner, the one side of the gates twin belt 402a transfers drive from the pulley 405 (driven by the motor means) to the drive transfer pulley 430a thereby providing drive to the timing belt 404a for driving the infeed gear 15b. The alternative side of the gates twin belt 402a provides drive to the pulley 402b for driving the infeed gear 15a.

[0269] Figure 13b shows an embodiment 400’ of a drive assembly which is a variant of the drive assembly 400 described above. The drive assembly 400’ comprises many of the features of the drive assembly 400 and operates to achieve substantially the same functionality, but represents, in substance, a simplified approach.

[0270] With reference to Figure 13b, like the drive assembly 400, the drive assembly 400’ comprises an arrangement of pulleys and belts that are configured so as to drive each of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b with a single motor drive in a counter-rotating direction (relative each other) in synchronisation with each other, while allowing for the upper disposed infeed gear 15’b to be translatable along the axis Z’ as shown in Figure 13b in response to varying thickness of the leaf as each are fed toward the assembly 5’ for stripping. The drive assembly 400’ is also used to drive the embodiment of the beater drum 35”. As with the feed assembly 10, the operable intention of the feed assembly 10’ and the drive assembly 400’ is to feed the raw material (ie. the raw phormium leaf) into the assembly at a constant rate. This prevents the leaf from being pulled through the machine prematurely and prevents the leaf from being wrapped around the beater drum 35”. From those mechanisms working, it allows fibres to be extracted at the quality that is acceptable to be fed into existing tape and yarn machines.

[0271] The drive assembly 400’ is configured to operate first 402’ and second 404’ timing belt arrangements (or driven arrangements) which are arranged so as to rotate respective infeed gears 15’a, 15’b so that each rotate counter to the other in a contra rotating manner. Both first 402’ and second 404’ timing belt arrangements are driven by a drive pulley 405’. The drive pulley 405’ is driven by a motor means or drive (not shown but implied).

[0272] The first timing belt arrangement 402’ operates to rotate the infeed gear 15’a (lower disposed gear), and the second timing belt arrangement 404’ operates to rotate the infeed gear 15’b (upper disposed gear).

[0273] As can be seen in Figure 13b, the first timing belt arrangement 402’ comprises a timing belt 402a’ which operates or interacts with a pulley 402’b which drives rotation of the lower disposed infeed gear 15’a, a pulley 440’ (which operates as a tensioning pulley in a similar manner as 410 for the drive assembly 400), and the drive motor pulley 405’ (driven by the driving motor means). The first timing belt 402’a is arranged in driving relation with the pulley 402’b so that driving of the belt 402’a (by the driving motor pulley 405’) drives rotation of the pulley 402’b, and consequentially the infeed gear 15’a. As can be seen, Figure 13b shows the direction of travel of the timing belt 402’a in rotating the infeed gear 15’a. For the embodiment shown, the first timing belt 402’a is single sided and receives drives directly from the drive motor pulley 405’.

[0274] As noted, the pulley 440’ is configured so as to be moveable by way of a spring tensioner arrangement in the directions shown in Figure 13b, for the purposes of providing a means of adjusting the tension in the first timing belt 402’a. In one form, the means of tensioning the first timing belt 402’a may be substantially similar as the tensioning arrangement 404-T for the driving assembly 400 described above. The skilled reader will be well aware of the various approaches that can be used to tension timing belts in drive machinery.

[0275] The second timing belt arrangement 404’ comprises a timing belt 404’a which operates or interacts with a pulley 404’b which drives rotation of the upper disposed infeed gear 15’b, the driving motor pulley 405’, a pulley 410’, and a pulley 415’ (which operates as a tensioning pulley in a similar manner as pulley 440 for the drive assembly 400). The second timing belt 404’a is arranged in driving relation with the pulley 404’b so that driving of the belt 404’a (by the driving motor pulley 405’) drives rotation of the pulley 404’b, and consequentially the infeed gear 15’b. As can be seen, Figure 13b shows the direction of travel of the timing belt 404’a in rotating the infeed gear 15’b. For the embodiment shown, the timing belt 404’a is provided in the form of a double-sided timing belt (gates twin power timing belt) for transferring power from the drive transfer pulley 405’ to the infeed gear 15’b. The timing belt 404’a is provided with elastomeric teeth on both sides which allows high-loading capacity synchronisation from receiving drive from the drive motor pulley 405’, and to transfer drive to the pulley 404’b. The pulleys 410’ and 415’ are arranged so as to be operable for enabling the timing belt 404 ’a to be operable for driving the pulley 404’b in the opposite direction to that of the pulley 402’b.

[0276] As noted, the pulley 415’ is configured so as to be moveable by way of a spring tensioner arrangement in the directions shown in Figure 13b, for the purposes of providing a means of adjusting the tension in the second timing belt 404’a. In one form, the means of tensioning the second timing belt 404’a may be substantially similar as the tensioning arrangement 402-T for the driving assembly 400 described above. The skilled reader will be well aware of the various approaches that can be used to tension timing belts in drive machinery.

[0277] Through the drive assembly 400’, both of the first 402’a and second 404’a timing belts are arranged in driving relation with the single motor drive pulley 405’ for driving of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b. The timing belts 402’a and 404’b are both selected to ensure appropriate timing of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b relative to each other during operation. This allows accurate meshing of the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b to be achieved thereby increasing or maximising leaf feed performance and reducing or minimising any mechanical conflicts between the infeed gears 15’a, 15’b during operation.

[0278] Figure 16 shows one embodiment of the drive assembly 400. The main features shown in Figures 13 and 14 can be readily seen.

[0279] In operation of the feed 10 and drive 400 assemblies, the infeed gears 15a, 15b can be driven in a counter-rotating manner relative each other for enabling feeding of the leaf toward the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50. Furthermore, the sliding mechanism 220 enables varying thickness of the leaf to be accommodated during the feeding process so as to not cause mechanical conflict with the operation of the engagement by the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50 for the stripping process. Furthermore, the drive assembly 400 allows both infeed gears 15a, 15b to be driven by a single motor drive while allowing for the tensioning of both respective pulley arrangements that are driving respective infeed gears 15a, 15b - while accommodating movement of the infeed gear 15b during an operational run. As such, one or both tensioning arrangements 402-T, 404-T can be adjusted with the coil springs 260 so as to enable a consistent pressure to be applied to the incoming leaf so that it can be fed or introduced into the assembly 5 at a generally constant or consistent rate or speed at about 2 metres per second.

[0280] Accordingly, the biasing means 260 and / or one or both tensioning arrangements 402-T, 404-T can be varied or adjusted so that a contact pressure applied to the incoming leaf remains substantially consistent irrespective of its thickness as it is engaged by the infeed gears 15a, 15b, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the leaf toward the beater drum 35 and the beater bar 50.

[0281] The drive assembly 400 comprises electrical speed drives that enables a diverse range of speeds to draw upon that can be used to adjust for varying leaf stripping requirements. In one embodiments, variable speed drives are selected having a direct torque control function, which can enable a higher degree of speed control when heavy loads are applied while stripping large leaf. In one mode of operation, the feed assembly 10 is configured so that an input feed between from about 300 to 720 revolutions per minute (RPM) can be selected. In one operational embodiment, the input feed speed is selected to be about 400 RPM. The motor drive driving the infeed gears 15a, 15b may be one from ABB, for example. The skilled reader will be aware of the types of motor drives appropriate for use with the present technology.

[0282] An advantage of the design of the drive assembly 400 as described as been to provide a generally slim line arrangement. This slimline arrangement can then enable the host machine to be much smaller than usual machines, enabling a narrower form / profile form. This has the advantage of saving factory space, enables transportability of the host machine or the respective assemblies, and is safer than existing designs.

[0283] The skilled reader would be well aware of materials from which any of the component / features described herein should be formed from given the connect of the present disclosure.

[0284] Another aspect of the present disclosure involves a method 100 for use in extracting a natural fibre from its raw state using suitable fibre extraction equipment or machinery (for example, decorticator equipment or machinery) comprising embodiments of the assembly 5. In one embodiment of a process shown in Figure 7, such a natural fibre extraction method involves, at 105, providing or harvesting raw material, such as for example, phormium leaf.

[0285] At 110, the extraction method 100 further involves stripping the raw material (or phormium leaf) for extracting its natural fibrous content by way of suitable equipment or machinery having an assembly configured in accordance with the assembly 5 as described herein.

[0286] The extracted fibrous content resulting from operation of the assembly (5) may then be collected (at 115) and be subject to any of the following subsequent processes considered necessary for conditioning the extracted fibre for use in existing yarn and tape forming equipment / machinery. Such processes may include any of the following: a drying process 120, a hackling process 125, a scutching process 130, a chemical treatment process 135, a carding process 140, a spinning process 145.

[0287] The skilled person will be aware of the nature and function of each of the above noted processes.

[0288] In an embodiment, the method further comprises forming a yarn or tape from the extracted fibrous content. In other embodiments, the method may further comprise using the formed yarn and / or tape to form other types of textiles or fabrics, which textiles or fabrics can be used for forming composite materials.

[0289] In another aspect, the present disclosure also concerns textiles and fabrics created using hollow natural fibres in multiple textile configurations and combinations. In one context, the present disclosure relates to the use of individual hollow fibres, such as for example extracted phormium fibre from phormium leaf using the assembly (5) and extraction method (100) described herein. In using the principles of the assembly (5) and extraction method (100) described herein, it is possible to form the extracted phormium fibre into both yarn and tapes using the principles of the present disclosure.

[0290] As noted above, textiles and fabrics are used in conjunction with resins to create composite materials. These fabrics, when not used with resin can be utilised for other purposes. The principles embodied in the operation of the assembly 5 enables, as one example, processing of phormium leaf to be undertaken in manner which makes it suitable for processing into yarns and tapes using existing yarn / tape forming machinery. As noted, existing extraction / stripping machinery are unable to prepare the phormium fibre from its raw harvested leaf form to a quality that is sufficient for input into existing yarn / tape forming machinery.

[0291] As the skilled reader will be aware, and with reference to Figure 8 (a) the hollow fibre yarn 200 is a generally circular cross section yarn incorporating multiple different hollow fibres 205 held together in a long yarn configuration. Different yarn configurations are shown in Figure 9(a).

[0292] With reference to Figures 8 and 9, hollow fibre tape 210 is a flat multiple or singular layered rectangular cross section tape incorporating multiple individual hollow fibres 205 (see Figure 9(b) showing a multiple layered configuration where layer 205-L1 is stacked atop layer 205-L2) to any width.

[0293] With reference to Figures 10 and 11 , such yarns 200 and tapes 210 can be made into textiles of twill (see Figure 10(d)), generally weave (see Figure 10(c)), unidirectional, biaxial (see Figure 10(b)) and triaxial (see Figure 10(a)) forms (as seen), suiting different applications involving composite materials. Moreover, these yarns and tapes can be made into textiles and fabrics in conjunction with other materials, whether of natural fibre origin or synthetic.

[0294] With specific reference to Figure 11 , a number of different textile configurations and construction are shown.

[0295] Figure 11 (a) shows a schematic perspective view an example of a portion of a textile constructed out of combination of hollow fibres in tape or yarn form, and which can be formed as multiple configurations such as twill, biaxial, triaxial, unidirectional etc.

[0296] Figure 11 (b) shows a cross-section view of a twill configuration of a textile using multiple hollow fibres brought into the textile in a tape form.

[0297] Figure 11 (c) shows another cross-section view of a twill configuration of a textile using multiple hollow fibres brought into the textile in a yarn form.

[0298] Figure 11 (d) shows a cross-section view of a biaxial configuration of a textile using multiple hollow fibres brought into the textile in a yarn form.

[0299] Figure 11 (e) shows a cross-section view of a biaxial configuration of a textile using multiple hollow fibres brought into the textile in a tape form.

[0300] Figure 11 (f) shows another cross-section of a biaxial configuration of a textile using multiple hollow fibres brought into the textile in a yarn form, with stitching between the layers to hold the layers of textile together.

[0301] Figure 11 (g) shows a cross-section of a biaxial configuration of a textile using multiple hollow fibres brought into the textile in a tape form with stitching between the layers to hold the layers together.

[0302] Figure 11 (h) shows a cross-section of a unidirectional textile made from a plurality of yarns in a single plane, with each yarn being constructed of a multiple of hollow fibres.

[0303] Figure 11 (i) shows a cross-section of a unidirectional textile made from a plurality of tape in a single plane, with each tape being constructed of a multiple of hollow fibres.

[0304] An embodiment provides a textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprises a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of fibres being arranged about an axis of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly 5 or assembly 5’ described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method 100 of extraction described herein.

[0305] In some embodiments, the plurality of hollow fibres are arranged so as to be substantially coaxial with the axis of the textile. The respective axes of the hollow fibres may extend generally in accordance with the axis of the textile. Respective hollow regions of the hollow fibres may extend in substantially in accordance with a respective axis of the relevant hollow fibre. The plurality of hollow fibres may be associated with adjacent hollow fibres by way of twisting or wrapping of the fibres together. The plurality of hollow fibres may be associated with adjacent fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The plurality of the fibres may be a first set of fibres, and wherein the textile comprises one or more further sets of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged about the axis of the textile. The or each further set of hollow or solid fibres may be associated with the first set of fibres by way of twisting or wrapping of the sets of fibres together (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The or each further set of hollow or solid fibres may be associated with the first set of fibres and or each other by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The or each further set of hollow or solid fibres may be any of: non-natural fibres, synthetic fibres, carbon fibres, fibreglass fibres, Kevlar® fibres. One or more sets of fibres may be arranged so as to run in accordance with or relative the axis in a substantially helical or non-helical manner. Any of the latter configurations may be used to provide a yarn.

[0306] An embodiment provides a textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprises a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of hollow fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing a respective layer of said fibres running in accordance with an axis of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly 5 or assembly 5’ described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method 100 of extraction described herein.

[0307] In some embodiments, respective axes of the hollow fibres may extend generally in accordance with the axis of the textile. Respective hollow regions of the hollow fibres may extend substantially in accordance with a respective axis of the relevant hollow fibre. The plurality of hollow fibres may be associated with adjacent fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). The plurality of the hollow fibres may be a first set of fibres forming said respective layer, and wherein the textile may comprise one or more further sets of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing one or more further respective layers. The hollow or solid fibres may form a respective layer are associated with adjacent fibres of the relevant layer by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement. The first and second layers of fibres may be arranged in stacked relation, the first and second layers of fibres being arranged at an angle with respective to each other having regard to a direction their respective fibres extend or run. The first and second layers of fibres may be arranged in stacked relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a biaxial configuration. The textile may further comprise a third set of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing a third respective layer of fibres, and wherein the first, second and third layers of fibres may be arranged in stacked relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a triaxial configuration. A layer of fibres may be associated with an adjacent layer of fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement (the skilled reader will be aware of other arrangements). One or more of further sets of fibres may be any of: non-natural fibres, synthetic fibres, carbon fibre, fibreglass fibres, Kevlar® fibres. The first set of plurality of fibres and or one or more of the further sets of fibres may be derived from phormium plant. Any of the latter configurations may be used to provide a tape.

[0308] Furthermore, an embodiment provides a textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile may comprise one or more first textiles arranged in accordance with any of the textiles described herein, and / or one or more second textiles arranged in accordance with any of the textiles described herein.

[0309] An embodiment may provide a textile for use in forming a composite material. The textile may comprise a first layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin. The plurality of hollow fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the first layer. The textile may comprise a second layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres, the plurality of hollow or solid fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer. The first and second layers may be arranged in stacked or layered relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a biaxial, a weave, or a twill configuration of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly 5 or assembly 5’ described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method 100 of extraction described herein. An embodiment may provide a textile for use in forming a composite material. The textile may comprise a first layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin. The plurality of hollow fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the first layer. The textile may comprise a second layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres. The second set of hollow or solid fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer. The textile may comprise a third layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres. The third set of hollow or solid fibres may be arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer. The first, second, and third layers may be arranged in stacked or layered relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a triaxial, a weave, or a twill configuration of the textile. The hollow natural fibre may be phormium fibre as extracted using an embodiment of the assembly 5 or assembly 5’ described herein, and / or with an embodiment of the method 100 of extraction described herein.

[0310] An embodiment may provide a fabric comprising or formed from one or more embodiments of a textile, any of which textiles may be as those described herein or otherwise. An embodiment may provide a composite material comprising or formed from any embodiment of a textile as described herein, and / or any embodiment of a fabric as described herein or otherwise. An embodiment may provide a composite material comprising a textile arranged according to any embodiment described herein, and / or any embodiment of a fabric as described herein, wherein the textile or fabric, whichever is relevant, may be substantially encapsulated, enveloped or impregnated by or with a cured or uncured resin.

[0311] In the claims that follow and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments. Similarly, throughout the preceding description and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “include” or variations such as “includes” or “including”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0312] Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0313] It is to be understood that the following claims are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Features may be added to or omitted from the provisional claims at a later date so as to further define or re-define the invention or inventions.

Claims

Claims1 . An extraction assembly for operable use with a decorticator for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the equipment having a feeding means configured operable for receiving raw material, the extraction assembly comprising: a first part having an axis and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the assembly, the first part comprising or carrying a plurality of material engaging portions, a second part spaced relative the first part so that, during operation of the assembly, the rotating plurality of material engaging portions and the second part cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing force(s) for extraction of the fibre when fed via the feeding means, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged with or about the first part so as to be operable for maintaining substantially consistent and / or even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating material engaging portions as the raw material passes between the first and second parts during operation of the assembly.

2. An extraction assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a support assembly configured for moveably supporting the second part in an eccentric manner so that a space between the first and second parts is selectively adjustable during use (or otherwise) in a measured or controllable manner for accommodating incoming raw material of different or varying thicknesses.

3. The extraction assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first part is of annular or cylindrical form and extends along the axis providing first and second opposite ends defining a circumferential lateral side therebetween running about its axis.

4. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are disposed at or near the circumferential lateral side of the first part generally coaxial with its axis.

5. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are of elongate form and are arranged relative each other so that adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are disposed or positioned at an angle to each other.

6. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or each of the plurality of material engaging portions are shaped so as to be substantially straight, having substantially parallel edges.

7. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein adjacent or neighbouringmaterial engaging portions are configured so that respective end portions of adjacent or neighbouring material engaging portions are substantially continuous in transition from one to other in providing substantially consistent / even contact or engagement with the raw material.

8. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged relative each other in a generally zig-zag like manner and connected or joined so as to run from one to the other substantially continuously along the circumferential lateral side of the first part.

9. The extraction assembly of claim 8, wherein the generally zig-zag manner of the arrangement of the plurality of material engaging portions along the circumferential direction of the circumferential lateral side of the first part operates, during operation, to bias or prejudice the raw material toward a central region between the first and second ends of the first part, thereby enabling the raw material to substantially self-centre when engaged by the first part and the rotating material engaging portions during operation of the assembly .

10. The extraction assembly of any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein one of said straight edges is a leading edge and the alternate is a trailing edge, and wherein the leading edge precedes the trailing edge relative to a direction of rotation of the first part about the axis.11 . The extraction assembly of claim 10, wherein the leading edge of the or each respective material engaging portions is rounded having a radius.

12. The extraction assembly of claim 10 or claim 11 , wherein the radius of the leading edge is about 0.5mm.

13. The extraction assembly of claims 5 to 12, wherein said angle is between from about 18 degrees to about 22 degrees, or about 20 degrees, or about 19.4 degrees.

14. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged relative to the axis of the first part at an angle of between from about 8 degrees to about 12 degrees, or about 10 degrees, or about 9.7 degrees.

15. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first part comprises of SGNiResist Iron material or comprises high chrome cast iron.

16. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of the material engaging portions are formed by way of a machining process, or a machining process following a casting process, or by machining from a block of steel.

17. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of the material engaging portions are formed as a protrusion in the circumferential lateral side or byway of a depression provided in the circumferential lateral side.

18. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a spacing between material engaging portions of or carried by the first part and the second part during operation of the assembly is arranged so as to be less than about 0.20mm or not greater than about 0.4mm, or about .25mm, or wherein the spacing between material engaging portions of or carried by the first part and the second part during operation of the assembly is arranged so as to be less than about 0.1 mm or not greater than about 1 .45mm.

19. The extraction assembly of any one of claims 2 to 17, wherein supporting of the second part in an eccentric manner by the support assembly enables adjustment of the space between the first and second parts to be selectively adjustable to a high degree of resolution of the thickness of the incoming raw material.

20. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second part is of elongate cylindrical form having first and second opposite ends, a circumferential lateral side extending between the first and second opposite ends, and an axis that is, when the second part is positioned relative with the first part for operation of the assembly, substantially parallel with the axis of the first part.21 . The extraction assembly of claim 20, wherein the circumferential lateral side of the second part provides a material engaging surface which engages raw material during use of the assembly.

22. The extraction assembly of claim 20 or claim 21 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the second part is supported by the support assembly at or near the first and second ends of the second part by respective end supports of the support assembly so that the respective end supports are supported coaxially relative each other in respect of a shared axis.

23. The extraction assembly of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein each end support comprises a respective body having a respective aperture formed or provided therein and dimensioned for receiving a respective end of the second part, the respective apertures formed substantially eccentric of the shared axis of the respective end supports of the second part so as to offset the axis of the second part from the shared axis when supporting the second part with the extraction assembly or relative to the first part.

24. The extraction assembly of any one of claims 22 to 23, wherein each of the respective end supports supporting the second part are configured so as to support the second part about at or near respective end regions of the second part in a manner allowing the second part to be selectively moveable relative or about the shared axis of the respective end supports thereby enabling it to be moveable relative to a peripheral region of the first part for enabling the space between the first and second parts to be adjusted in the measured or controllable manner during or operation of the equipment or otherwise.

25. The extraction assembly of claim 24, wherein at least one of the respective end supports is configured having a lever portion extending from a body of the relevant support, the lever portion being arranged in operable association with an adjustment assembly by which the lever portion can be selectively moved in respect of the shared axis of the end supports and the peripheral of the first part.

26. The extraction assembly of claim 25, wherein the adjustment assembly comprises a rod screw arranged in operable association with a travelling member such that rotation of the rod screw enables consequential movement of the travelling member along a portion of the length of the rod screw, and wherein the travelling member is operably associated with the lever portion so that the movement of the travelling member along the rod screw causes rotational movement of the respective end supports about the shared axis thereby causing movement of the second part about the shared axis in a substantially manner.

27. The extraction assembly of claim 26, wherein the lever portion and the travelling member are operably connected by way of a linking member, the linking member being rotatably connected with the lever portion at or near a first end of the linking member, the linking member being rotatably connected with the travelling member at or near a second end of the linking member, and wherein the first and second ends of the linking member represent opposite ends of the linking member.

28. The extraction assembly of any one of claims 26 to 27, wherein the rod screw is aligned that an axis about which it is rotatable is aligned be substantially traverse of the shared axis of the respective end supports.

29. The extraction assembly of any one of claims 22 to 28, wherein the respective end supports supporting the second part are provided in the form of eccentric position adjustment enabling bushings which may be arranged with the second part by way of respective shrink rings or disc assemblies.

30. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the feed assembly comprises an inlet region providing an opening through which raw material is introduced into the assembly.31 . The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the feed assembly further comprises a pair of feed rollers driven in a counter-rotating or synchronous manner by a driving assembly, each roller comprising facing annular sides configured so as to engage raw material introduced into the assembly via the inlet region’s opening and move the raw material toward the first and second parts for engagement thereby.

32. The extraction assembly of claim 31 , wherein the feed rollers each have a peripheral surface configured having a plurality of spiral or helically shaped grooves formed therewith forinteracting with raw material being introduced for interaction with the first and second parts of the assembly, one or more of the spiral of helically shaped grooves of the first, second infeed rollers being configured so as to be aligned substantially concentric relative to respective axes about which the first, second infeed rollers rotate.

33. The extraction assembly according to claim 32, wherein the pair of feed rollers comprise first and second rotatable members arranged in driving relation with a driving means so as to be rotatable thereby when in use.

34. The extraction assembly according to claim 33, wherein one of the first, second rotatable members is arranged so as to be moveable relative to the other so that, when in use, a spacing between the first, second rotatable members through which raw material is engaged for feeding to the equipment can be variably responsive to the raw material so that the engagement of the raw material by the rotatable members facilitates a generally consistent rate of movement toward the equipment.

35. The extraction assembly according to claim 33 or claim 34, wherein the first and second rotatable members rotate about their respective axes of rotation in opposing directions of rotation.

36. The extraction assembly according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein movement of the moveable rotatable member relative to the other rotatable member is substantially linear along an axis.

37. The extraction assembly according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein movement of the moveable rotatable member along the axis is in response to its engagement with the incoming raw material.

38. The extraction assembly according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein movement of the moveable rotatable member is in response to a thickness of the raw material as it engages with the first, second rotatable members.

39. The extraction assembly according to any one of claims 34 to 38, wherein the response of the moveable rotatable member to a thickening of the raw material engaging same causes the moveable member to adjust position in respect of the other rotatable roller.

40. The extraction assembly according to any one of claims 33 to 39, wherein the moveable rotatable member is operable with a biasing means, which biasing means is operable for biasing or prejudicing movement of the moveable rotatable member in a direction along the axis that is toward the raw material.41 . The extraction assembly according to claim 40, wherein the biasing means is configured so asto be variable or adjustable so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second rotatable members, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material.

42. The extraction assembly according to any one of claims 33 to 41 , wherein the axis along which the moveable rotatable member moves relative to the other rotatable member is inclined or angularly offset relative to a vertically aligned plane or axis, or is substantially aligned with the vertically aligned plane or axis.

43. The extraction assembly of any one of any one of claims 33 to 42, wherein, during operation of the assembly, the feed rollers of the feed means are driven in a counter-rotating or synchronous manner at about 400 revolutions per minute enabling a raw material feed rate of about 2 metres per second, and rotatable driving of the first part is driven by driving means at about 2,100 revolutions per minute44. The extraction assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the raw material is phormium leaf.

45. A feed assembly for use with equipment operable for extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the feed assembly configured operable for feeding a raw material into the equipment, the feed assembly comprising: first and second infeed rollers configured so as to be cooperable for engaging a raw material for feeding to the equipment, wherein one of the first, second infeed rollers is arranged so as to be moveable relative to the other so that, when in use, a spacing between the first, second infeed rollers through which raw material is engaged for feeding to the equipment can be variably responsive to the raw material so that the engagement of the raw material by the infeed rollers facilitates a generally consistent rate of movement toward the equipment for interaction with the first and second parts of the assembly.

46. The feed assembly according to claim 45, wherein the first and second infeed rollers have a peripheral surface configured having a plurality of spiral or helically shaped grooves formed therewith for interacting with raw material being introduced for interaction with the first and second parts of the assembly, one or more of the spiral of helically shaped grooves of the first, second infeed rollers being configured so as to be aligned substantially concentric relative to respective axes about which the first, second infeed rollers rotate.

47. A feed assembly according to claim 45 or claim 46, wherein the first and second infeed rollers of the feed assembly are arranged in driving relation with a driving means so as to be rotatablethereby when in use.

48. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein the first and second infeed rollers of the feed assembly rotate about their respective axes of rotation in opposing directions of rotation.

49. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein movement of the moveable infeed roller of the feed assembly relative to the other infeed roller of the feed assembly is substantially linear along an axis.

50. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 49, wherein movement of the moveable infeed roller along the axis is in response to its engagement with the incoming raw material.51 . A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 50, wherein movement of the infeed rollers is in response to a thickness of the raw material as it engages with the first, second infeed rollers.

52. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 51 , wherein the response of the moveable infeed roller to a thickening of the raw material engaging same causes the moveable infeed roller to increase its spacing from the other infeed roller.

53. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 52, wherein the moveable infeed roller is operable with a biasing means, which biasing means is operable for biasing or prejudicing movement of the moveable infeed roller in a direction along the axis that is toward the raw material.

54. A feed assembly according to claim 53, wherein the biasing means is variable or adjustable so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second infeed rollers, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material.

55. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 54, wherein the axis along which the moveable infeed roller moves relative to the other infeed roller is inclined or angularly offset relative to a vertically aligned plane or axis, or is substantially aligned with the vertically aligned plane or axis.

56. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 55, wherein the driving means is provided in the form of a drive assembly.

57. A feed assembly according to claim 56, wherein the drive assembly comprises a first driven arrangement operable for providing drive to the first infeed roller, the first driven arrangement configured in driving relation with a driving module.

58. A feed assembly according to claim 57, wherein the drive assembly comprises a second driven arrangement operable for providing drive to the second infeed roller, the second driven arrangement configured in driving relation with the driving module.

59. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 56 to 58, wherein the drive assembly comprises a drive transfer means arranged operable with the driving module and configured for receiving drive therefrom and transferring drive to (i) the first driven arrangement for driving the first infeed roller, and (ii) the second driven arrangement for driving the second infeed roller.

60. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 57 to 59, wherein the first driven arrangement comprises a timing belt configured having a first side arranged in driving engagement with the drive transfer means for receiving drive therefrom for driving of the first infeed roller by way of the first side.61 . A feed assembly according to any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein the second driven arrangement comprises a timing belt configured having a first side arranged in driving engagement with the drive transfer means for receiving drive therefrom for driving of the second infeed roller by way of the first side.

62. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 60 to 61 , wherein the timing belt of the first driven arrangement comprises a second side operably engaged with the first infeed roller, and wherein drive received by the timing belt of the first driven arrangement by way of the first side is transferred to the first rotatable member for driving same.

63. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 57 to 62, wherein the drive assembly comprises respective means for tensioning of the timing belts of the first and second driven arrangements.

64. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 53 to 63, wherein the biasing means and / or said respective means for tensioning of the belts of the first and second driven arrangements is variable or adjustable so that a contact pressure applied to the raw material remains substantially consistent irrespective of a thickness of the raw material as it is engaged by the first, second infeed rollers, thereby facilitating the generally consistent rate of movement of the raw material the equipment.

65. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 64, wherein the feed assembly is configured so that the moveable infeed roller is the first infeed rollers.

66. A feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 65, wherein the feed assembly may be used with or incorporated within decorticator equipment or machinery having a beater drum, and wherein the beater drum is operably associated with the driving module so as to be driven by same.

67. A decorticator comprising an extraction assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 44.

68. A decorticator according to claim 67, wherein the feeding means is a feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 66.

69. A method for use in extracting a natural fibre from its raw state, the method comprising: providing or harvesting raw material, stripping the raw material for extracting fibrous content by way of an apparatus or fibre extraction equipment having an extraction assembly comprising: a first part having an axis and configured so as to be rotatable thereabout during operation of the extraction assembly, the first part comprising or carrying a plurality of material engaging portions, a second part spaced relative the first part so that, during operation of the extraction assembly, the rotating plurality of material engaging portions and the second part cooperate for subjecting the raw material passing therebetween to shearing force(s) for extraction of the fibre, wherein the plurality of material engaging portions are arranged with the first part so as to be operable for maintaining substantially continuous / consistent and even contact or engagement with the raw material when transitioning between successive rotating material engaging portions as the raw material passes between the first and second parts during operation of the extraction assembly, and collecting the extracted fibrous content resulting from operation of the extraction assembly.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein the extraction assembly is configured according to the extraction assembly of any one of claims 1 to 44.71 . The method of claim 69 or claim 70, wherein the collected extracted fibre is subject to any of the following methods or processes: a drying process, a hackling process, a scutching process, a chemical treatment process, a carding process, a spinning process.

72. The method of any of claims 69 to 71 , further comprising forming a yarn or tape from the extracted fibre, and wherein the raw material is phormium leaf.

73. The method of any of claims 69 to 72, further comprising forming a textile according to any one of claims 74 to 102, or forming a fabric according to claim 103, or forming a composite material according to any one of claims 104 to 105.

74. A textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprising: a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of fibres being arranged about an axis of the textile.

75. A textile according to claim 74, wherein the plurality of hollow fibres are arranged so as to be substantially coaxial with the axis of the textile.

76. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 75, wherein respective axes of the hollow fibres extend generally in accordance with the axis of the textile.

77. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 76, wherein respective hollow regions of the hollow fibres extend in substantially in accordance with a respective axis of the relevant hollow fibre.

78. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 77, wherein the plurality of hollow fibres are associated with adjacent hollow fibres by way of twisting or wrapping of the fibres together.

79. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 78, wherein the plurality of hollow fibres are associated with adjacent fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement.

80. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 79, wherein the plurality of the fibres is a first set of fibres, and wherein the textile comprises one or more further sets of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged about the axis of the textile.81 . A textile according to any of claims 74 to 80, wherein the or each further set of hollow or solid fibres are associated with the first set of fibres by way of twisting or wrapping of the sets of fibres together.

82. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 81 , wherein the or each further set of hollow or solid fibres are associated with the first set of fibres and or each other by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement.

83. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 82, wherein the or each further set of hollow or solid fibres are any of: non-natural fibres, synthetic fibres, carbon fibres, fibreglass fibres, Kevlar® fibres.

84. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 83 wherein the first set of hollow fibres and or one or more of the further sets of fibres are derived from phormium.

85. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 84, wherein one or more sets of fibres are arranged so as to run in accordance with or relative the axis in a substantially helical or non-helical manner.

86. A textile according to any of claims 74 to 85, wherein the textile provides a yarn.

87. A textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprising: a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of hollow fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing a respective layer of said fibres running in accordance with an axis of the textile.

88. A textile according to claim 87, wherein respective axes of the hollow fibres extend generally in accordance with the axis of the textile.

89. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 88, wherein respective hollow regions of the hollow fibres extend substantially in accordance with a respective axis of the relevant hollow fibre.

90. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 89, wherein the plurality of hollow fibres are associated with adjacent fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement.91 . A textile according to any of claims 87 to 90, wherein the plurality of the hollow fibres is a first set of fibres forming said respective layer, and wherein the textile comprises one or more further sets of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing one or more further respective layers.

92. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 91 , wherein the hollow or solid fibres forming a respective layer are associated with adjacent fibres of the relevant layer by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement.

93. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 92, wherein the first and second layers of fibres are arranged in stacked relation, the first and second layers of fibres being arranged at an angle with respective to each other having regard to a direction their respective fibres extend or run.

94. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 93, wherein the first and second layers of fibres are arranged in stacked relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a biaxial configuration.

95. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 94, further comprising a third set of a respective plurality of hollow or solid fibres arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing a third respective layer of fibres, and wherein the first, second and third layers of fibres are arranged in stacked relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a triaxial configuration.

96. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 95, wherein a layer of fibres is associated with an adjacent layer of fibres by way of: a bonding or adhesive system, stitching arrangement.

97. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 96, wherein one or more of further sets of fibres are any of: non-natural fibres, synthetic fibres, carbon fibre, fibreglass fibres, Kevlar® fibres.

98. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 97, wherein the first set of plurality of fibres and or one or more of the further sets of fibres are derived from phormium.

99. A textile according to any of claims 87 to 98, wherein the textile provides a tape.

100. A textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprising: one or more first textiles arranged in accordance with the textile of any one of claims 74 to 86, and / or one or more second textiles arranged in accordance with the textile of any one of claims 87 to 99.

101. A textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprising: a first layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of hollow fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the first layer, a second layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres, the plurality of hollow or solid fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer, the first and second layers being arranged in stacked or layered relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a biaxial, a weave, or a twill configuration of the textile.

102. A textile for use in forming a composite material, the textile comprising: a first layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of substantially hollow fibres of natural or organic derivation or origin, the plurality of hollow fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the first layer, a second layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres, said second set of hollow or solid fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer, and a third layer comprising a set of fibres being a plurality of hollow or solid fibres, said third set of hollow or solid fibres being arranged in a substantially side-by-side manner for forming or providing the second layer,the first, second, and third layers being arranged in stacked or layered relation at an angle with respective to each other so as to provide a triaxial, a weave, or a twill configuration of the textile.

103. A fabric comprising one or both of a first textile arranged according to any one of claims 74 to 102 and a second textile arranged according to any one of claims 74 to 102.

104. A composite material comprising a textile arranged according to any one of claims 74 to 102 or a fabric arranged according to claim 103.

105. A composite material comprising a textile arranged according to any one of claims 74 to 102 or a fabric arranged according to claim 103, wherein the textile or fabric, whichever is relevant, is substantially encapsulated, enveloped or impregnated by or with a cured or uncured resin.

106. The method of any of claims 69 to 72, further comprising forming a textile according to any one of claims 74 to 102, or forming a fabric according to claim 103, or forming a composite material according to any one of claims 104 to 105, wherein the raw material comprises at least phormium, and wherein fibre from the phormium is extracted or processed using equipment, machinery or a decorticator comprising an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 44 and / or a feed assembly according to any one of claims 44 to 66.

107. A textile according to any one of claims 74 to 102, or a fabric according to claim 103, or a composite material according to any one of claims 104 to 105, wherein a constituent raw material comprises at least phormium, and wherein fibre from the phormium is extracted or processed using equipment, machinery or a decorticator comprising an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 44 and / or a feed assembly according to any one of claims 45 to 66.

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