Abstract:
Among other things, the inventive subject matter generally relates to bulk fill materials suitable for an insulative or cushioning material. The bulk fill material consists of a plurality of discrete units comprising clusters or loose webs of fibers. The fibers consist of superfine fibers and/or fibers in a range of 1 to 5 denier; the fibers being entangled to form the clusters or loose webs. In some embodiments the clusters or webs are multinode fiber structures that mimic natural down. The inventive subject matter is also directed to related methods of production.
Abstract:
Among other things, the inventive subject matter generally relates to systems and methods for collecting fibers of any scale in agglomerations of generally parallel strands for use in forming yarns, for example.
Abstract:
In some embodiments, the inventive subject matter relates to a fiber construct suitable for use as a fill material for insulation or padding, comprising: a primary fiber structure comprising a predetermined length of fiber; a secondary fiber structure, the secondary fiber structure comprising a plurality of relatively short loops spaced along a length of the primary fiber. In some embodiments, the inventive subject matter relates to insulative fiber structures that mimic the structure and scale of natural down and thereby provide similar properties
Abstract:
Among other things, the inventive subject matter generally relates to nonwoven textiles consisting of webs of superfine fibers, i.e., fibers with diameters in nanoscale or micronscale ranges, for use in articles that have, for example a predetermined degree of waterproofness with breathability, or windproofness with breathability.
Abstract:
Constructs consisting of diatomized fibers, filaments, yarns, woven and non-woven textiles, fiber-based films, mats, and membranes, other constructs and finished products made from the foregoing. The inventive subject matter is particularly directed to apparel products and molded footwear outsoles, and other molded or textile-based products, wherein a plurality of diatomite particles embedded in the surface of a construct impart desired functionalities, such as moisture management, odor control, or traction or grip enhancement, water and dirt repellency, and wear resistance.