The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Mar. 10, 1998
Filed:
Oct. 11, 1996
William D Milligan, Matthews, NC (US);
Fritz Witt, Charlotte, NC (US);
Hong Peng, Greensboro, NC (US);
Tubular Textile LLC, Lexington, NC (US);
Abstract
A method and apparatus for finish processing of knitted fabric. Fabric, supplied in substantially dry condition and in generally flat form, is directed through an open bottom, vertically oriented steam chamber, constantly supplied with fully saturated steam at atmospheric pressure. Upon exiting the steam chamber, the knitted fabric is laterally distended to a predetermined width, and then subjected to finish processing, such as calendering or compacting. A sensing device in the steam chamber maintains a steam-air interface slightly above the open bottom of the chamber. More effective moisturizing of the fabric is accomplished, enabling the steaming operation to be performed prior to the spreading operation, without compromising the finish processing operations. Improved performance is realized, along with extraordinary savings in operating costs.