Abstract:
Apparatus for developing a pattern in textile goods formed by a tufting operation employs an array of optical fibers to optically scan a replica of the desired pattern. The continuous output scan signal is digitally quantized, and sampled by scan-synchronized strobe circuitry to provide a series of binary information bits descriptive of the scanned pattern with accurate resolution. The serial bits are converted to parallel form, and preserved in a storage medium together with control information as plural bit frames of predetermined format. Pattern implementing control circuitry operates asynchronously under control of the tufting machine to automatically receive present stitch (row) and next stitch information in corresponding holding registers from the pattern storage medium. Pattern controllers are responsive to the binary digital information stored in the present stitch register for determining the pattern-defining operations effected by tufting stations disposed across the width of the tufting machine.
Abstract:
The process of fixing formaldehyde on cellulose or a cellulose ester with the aid of a carbamate and using glycolic acid in the catalyst system is improved by including a buffering agent. Preferably there is also included a hexitol as a scavenger for unreacted formaldehyde.
Abstract:
Method and means for automatically transferring articles from a conveyor belt when the articles are adhered thereto. The articles are shown as being flat and flexible or drapable. The adhesion between the belt and the leading edge of the article is first automatically broken and then the separated leading edge is pulled and guided away from the end of the conveyor. Special exemplary means are disclosed which include a reciprocating blade for breaking loose the leading edge and interleaved doffer belts and guide combs for pulling and guiding the articles from the belt. Pressurized gases may also be blown under the separated leading edge and onto the trailing edge for facilitating the operations.
Abstract:
A PROCESS FOR MAKING A BONDED NONWOVEN FABRIC FROM A BLEND OF NYLON FIBERS AN FIBERS OF ANOTHER KIND OF MATERIAL. THE FIBERS ARE FORMED INTO A WEB WHICH IS TREATED WITH A CONCENTRATED SOLUTION OF A STRONG ACID WHICH AFFECTS THE NYLON BUT DOES NOT SUBSTANTIALLY AFFECT THE OTHER MATERIAL. THE NYLON IS SOFTENED AND SWOLLEN BY THE CONCENTRATED ACID. THEN, THE WEB IS CONTACTEDWITH WATER WHICH DILUTES THE CONCENTRATED ACID AND COAGULATES THE NYLON. SUBSEQUENTLY, THE WEB IS SUBJECTED TO PRESSURE. THE ACID TREATMENT MAKES THE NYLON MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO PRESSURE BUT DOES NOT HAVE THIS EFFECT ON THE FIBERS OF THE OTHER MATERIAL. WHEN PRESSURE IS APPLIED, THE NYLON FLOWS AND CAUSES THE OTHER FIBERS TO BE BONDED TO EACH OTHER.