PATENT IN APPAREL INDUSTRY

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

Submitted in partial fulfilment of the degree of Masters of Fashion Management from

National Institute of Fashion Technology

Submitted by:
Anurag Khanna (MFM/16/317)

Geethika Madala (MFM/16/209)

Harshika Gupta (MFM/16/763)

Prachi Sinha (MFM/16/313)

Rohit Srivastav (MFM/16/231)

S. Smruti Ranjan Sahoo (MFM/16/821)

Under the guidance of:

Dr. B.B Jena

(Asst. Professor, FMS)

Submitted to:

Department of Fashion Management Studies

National Institute of Fashion Technology
(Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India)
NIFT Campus, IDCO Plot No-24,
Bhubaneswar, Odisha-751024.
www.nift.ac.in
WRINKLE FREE GARMENT AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

Publication number US8336474 B2

Publication type: Grant
Application number: US 11/273,188
Publication date: Dec 25, 2012
Filing date: Nov 14, 2005
Priority date: Oct 18, 2001
Fee status: Paid
Also published as: CA2463677A1, 14 More
Inventors: Yugao Zhang, Tian-Xi Li, Bai-Shun Chen
Original Assignee: Yugao Zhang, Tian-Xi Li, Bai-Shun Chen

ABOUT

Its a method of manufacturing wrinkle-free garment. A garment therefrom comprises

a.) Placing a bonding element comprising a thermal adhesive between garment

components;
b.) Stitching along a seam line;
c.) Applying heat and/or pressure to cause the adhesive to melt and flow along the seam
to bond at least one garment component.
The thermal adhesive has a melting point of higher than about 150 C., preferably in the
range about 160 C. to about 190 C. Alternatively, a bonding element comprising any
adhesive material and having a substantially U shape is used to make various seams, such as
a yoke seam, a shoulder seam, a side seam, a pocket seam, a hem button stay seam, a sleeve
seam, a collar seam, etc. Wrinkle free garments, such as shirts, pants, blouses, skirts, etc.,
incorporating the seams are produced.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to wrinkle free garment seams and methods to manufacture them. More
specifically, it is directed to an improved garment seam and method of manufacture which
reduces the tendency of the seam to bunch or wrinkle around a sleeve attachment area and
other similar areas after laundering.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The garment industry has long been plagued by a wrinkling phenomenon at seam lines. Seam
wrinkle is typically caused by thread shrinkage which occurs during laundering of a garment.
In particular, after a garment is purchased by a garment consumer it is subjected to laundering
cycles as the shirt is worn and becomes soiled. During these laundering and drying cycles the
sewing thread typically undergoes a shrinkage, such as longitudinal shrinkage. The thread
shrinkage rate may be greater than the surrounding shirt material, which creates wrinkling at
a seam joining two panels of fabric. In addition, the sewing thread contracts upon being
laundered and pulls on opposing garment components at the garment seam which in turn
causes the garment components to buckle and thereby creating wrinkles along the garment
seam. Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a method of manufacturing garments
which would be substantially free of wrinkle and which would maintain a smooth seam
which is wrinkle free even after multiple laundering operations.

Numerous efforts have been made to reduce seam wrinkle. For example, one such attempt to
reduce seam wrinkle utilizes special garment material. Specifically, the garment components
sewn together at the seam are manufactured from material which stretches during the sewing
process and which relaxes after the sewing process is complete. This relaxation provides for
slack in the sewing thread.

Other attempts include altering the nature of the sewing thread used in the sewing process.
For example, a composite sewing thread has been utilized in which one component of the
thread is water soluble. During the laundering process the water soluble component dissolves
gradually, thereby creating slack in the sewing thread which compensates for thread
shrinkage.

In spite of the progress made in the art to reduce seam puckering, there continues to exist a
need for an improved wrinkle-free seam and method of manufacture which produces a
wrinkle-free seam for various garment components.
Amazon on-demand clothing manufacturing warehouse

Publication number: US9623578 B1

Publication type: Grant
Application number: US 14/970,874
Publication date: Apr 18, 2017
Filing date: Dec 16, 2015
Priority date: Dec 16, 2015
Inventors: Rouzbeh Safavi Aminpour,
Original Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
Export Citation: BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan

ABOUT

According to the patent, the computerized system could capture orders from anywhere on the
planet and then swiftly develop the most efficient plan for producing and providing the
clothing. Factors that could go into determining the most efficient means of fulfilment could
include geographic location, fabric type, assembly process and more. Amazon applied for the
patent in late 2015

The inventors of this patent made it clear, however, that they believe such a system could
work in other categories, such as footwear, bedding, curtains, Towels and be made of
materials including but not limited to paper, plastic, leather, rubber and other materials.

PROCESS

As Amazon explains it in the patent, By aggregating orders from various geographic

locations and coordinating apparel assembly processes on a large scale, the networked
environment provides new ways to increase efficiency in apparel manufacturing.

Based on the orders, an automated system at an Amazon facility would produce the clothes.
A textile printer would create the various fabrics needed. The fabrics would then be
automatically fed over to a textile cutter, which would cut out pattern pieces from the sheets
of fabric to be assembled into the finished garments.

Cameras would monitor the process, and an image analyser could spot if anything went
wrong, such as the textiles bunching, stretching, or being cut incorrectly. The system would
adjust itself to correct the issue, signal an attendant for assistance, or flag the panel as a
misprint to be discarded. Eventually the finished products would be checked for quality,
packed, and shipped.
 Sun protective clothing system

Publication number US20120047624 A1

Publication type Application

Application number US 12/869,562

Publication date Mar 1, 2012

Filing date Aug 26, 2010
Priority date Aug 26, 2010

Inventors Michael Hubsmith

Original Assignee Coolibar, Inc.

ABSTRACT

A protective clothing system is disclosed and includes in one embodiment a short sleeve
garment and right and left long-sleeves having a tubular shape so that the wearer can slide an
arm into a respective one of each of the long-sleeves so that one end of the long-sleeve
reaches the upper arm at a position above the hem of the short-sleeve, and the other end of
the long-sleeve reaches to the wrist of the wearer, each of the long-sleeves hemmed at least
on the other end. In another example embodiment the short-sleeve garment and long sleeves
each constructed substantially of a sun-protective fabric having an Ultraviolet Protection
Factor (UPF) of substantially 15 or greater, wherein the fabric used for the short-sleeve
garment and long-sleeves matches or is compatible in color and pattern, and wherein the
fabric used for the long-sleeves is a stretch fabric and the long-sleeves are sized to form-fit on
at least a portion of the wearer's arm so that the long-sleeves stay in place on the wearer's
upper arm when the user is engaging in physical activity involving the movement of the
wearer's arm. Further, in another example embodiment, the sun-protective fabric further
includes at least one UV blocking component selected from the group of: a chemical that
diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation or a particle that diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV
radiation.
Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technology relates generally to sun protective clothing and more particularly to
sun protective garments that protect the upper body and arms from harmful UV radiation.

BACKGROUND

Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of all cancers in the U.S. and the number of cases
continues to rise. It is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells that results in tumors
that are either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). There are three main types of
skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell and
squamous cell cancers are less serious types and make up 95% of all skin cancers. Also
referred to as non-melanoma skin cancers, they are highly curable when treated early.
Melanoma, made up of abnormal skin pigment cells called melanocytes, is the most serious
form of skin cancer and causes 75% of all skin cancer deaths. Left untreated, it can spread to
other organs and is difficult to control. Cumulative sun exposure causes mainly basal cell and
squamous cell skin cancer, while episodes of severe sunburns, usually before age 18, can
cause melanoma later in life. Other less common causes are repeated X-ray exposure and
occupational exposure to certain chemicals.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the number one cause of skin cancer. Accordingly,
the importance of avoiding excessive exposure to the sun is well understood. Protection from
exposure is typically obtained by applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15
or greater, using cosmetic products and contact lenses that offer UV protection, wearing
sunglasses with total UV protection, avoiding direct sun exposure as much as possible during
peak UV radiation hours between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and increasingly by wearing sun-
protective clothing. While sunscreen is an effective protection to UV radiation, the protection
it affords is limited in time due to the sunscreen being rubbed, washed off or evaporated from
the skin. Accordingly, sun-protective clothing is a more reliable, long lasting and durable
protection.
Sun protective clothing was originally popularized in Australia as an option or adjunct to
sunscreen lotions and sunblock creams. Sun protective clothing and UV protective fabrics in
Australia now follow a lab-testing procedure regulated by a federal agency: ARPANSA. This
standard was established in 1996 after work by Australian swimwear companies. The British
standard was established in 1998. The NRPB (National Radiological Protection Board) forms
the basis of the British Standards Institute standard. Using the Australian method as a model,
the USA standard was formally established in 2001, and now employs a similar testing
protocol. UPF testing is now very widely used on clothing used for outdoor activities. Unlike
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) that measures only UVB, UPF measures both UVA and UVB.
This UPF standard was developed in 1998 by Committee RA106 of American Association of
Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC). The testing standard for sun protective fabrics in
the United States, also adopted by the AATCC, is the Test Method 183. This method is based
on the original guidelines established in Australia in 1994. AATCC 183 method defines the
UPF rating for a fabric/textile as the ratio of UV measured without the protection of the fabric
(compared to) with protection of the fabric. For example, a fabric rated UPF 30 means that if
30 units of UV fall on the fabric only 1 unit will pass through. A UPF 30 fabric that diffuses,
absorbs or blocks or absorbs 29 out of 30 units of UV is therefore blocking 96.7% UV. UPF
tests are normally conducted in a laboratory with a spectrophotometer or a spectroradiometer.

AATCC 183 is sometimes used in conjunction with other related standards including
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D 6544 and ASTM D 6603. ASTM D
6544 specifies simulating the life cycle of a fabric so that a UPF test can be done at the end of
a fabric's life cyclewhich is when most fabrics provide the most reduced level of UV
protection. This method includes fabric, longevity, sunlight exposure and washability. ASTM
D 6603 is a consumer format recommended for visible hangtag and care labelling of sun
protective clothing and textiles. A manufacturer may publish a test result to a maximum of
UPF 50+.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGS. 1, 2 3A and 3B illustrate an

example embodiment of a sun-protective clothing system

FIG. 4 illustrates an example embodiment of a clothing system 100 assembled for distribution
and/or delivery to a wearer of the system 100.

FIGS. 5 through 10 illustrate alternate example embodiments of system 100.

DESCRIPTION

Described herein is a sun-protective garment system that is adapted for warm weather uses
and that protects both a torso of user and in particular also the forearms, without the
limitations of requiring a long-sleeve shirt. In addition, the sun-protective garment system is
adapted to be used in sports requiring vigorous use of the arms such as tennis, golf, baseball,
soccer, cricket and other outdoor sports involving running or throwing. This system offers
those engaging in outdoor activities a superior alternative to use of sunscreen on the forearms
and to wearing a long-sleeve shirt, which many resist due to the restraint of movement, over-
heating discomfort and perhaps even more so due to fashion objections. As a result, the
inventive system described herein offers both individuals and the health care system a greater
opportunity to protect the forearms from sun damage and from the accompanying higher risk
of cancer and other skin ailments resulting from excess UV exposure.

According to one example embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3A and 3B, there is provided
a sun-protective clothing system 100 including a short sleeve garment 110 having a first torso
portion 112 to cover a wearer's torso 114 and right and left short-sleeves 120 and 122 to
cover the wearer's upper arms 124 and 126. The short-sleeves 120 and 122 extend down from
the shoulder 132 of the user to cover a substantial portion of the wearer's upper arm 134 and
terminate in a hem 136. In one embodiment, the short sleeve 120/122 covers all or a portion
of the wearer's bicep 135. Garment 110 further includes a collar 116.

Right and left long-sleeves 140 and 142 each have a tubular shape so that the wearer can slide
an arm into a first end 144 of the long-sleeve 140 or 142 and so that one end of the long-
sleeve reaches the upper arm 124/126 at a position above the hem 136 of the short sleeve
garment 110, and the other end 146 of the long-sleeve 124/126 reaches to the wrist 148 of the
wearer, wherein each of the long-sleeves have a hem 150 at least on the wrist end 146, but
preferably on both ends. In one embodiment, sleeves 140/142 are sized to reach above the
bicep of a wearer on end 144.

The sizes of short sleeve garment 110 and sleeves 140/142 are coordinated so that the sleeves
140/142 are of a length and diameter that will at least cover the wearer's expected arm size
given any particular size of garment 110. For example, in one example embodiment, each of
extra-large, large, medium and small (or other sizes) will have a sleeve that is
correspondingly extra-large, large, medium and small (or other sizes) to accommodate the
typical arm size of a person wearing each respective size of garment 110. In another
embodiment, a single sleeve size may accommodate more than one arm size such as the
extra-large and large, with another for medium and small, or alternatively there may be a one-
size fits all. In any event, the sleeves are sized so that they will not stretch so much that they
lose their rated UV protection due.

According to still another example embodiment, as illustrated in the plan view of FIG. 3B,
long-sleeves 140/142 are tapered from end 144 to end 146 to accommodate the larger size of
the upper arm compared to the lower arm, and includes a seam 137 wherein the fabric
forming the sleeves is sewn together to form the tubular shape. As indicated elsewhere
herein, the tapering and sizing of the sleeves 140/142 may be adjusted or modified to provide
more room in the sleeve in elbow if desired to minimize binding when the wearer is
engaging in sports activities, or to cause some portions of the sleeve to fit less snugly than
other portions, for example the forearm portion may be sized for a relatively looser fit than
the upper arm portion. As may be readily appreciated, because the short-sleeve garment and
long-sleeves are not connected, the wearer's arms are not restricted by potential binding
between the garment engaging the forearm and the garment engaging the upper arm, shoulder
or torso.

According to one example embodiment, the short-sleeve garment 110 and long sleeves
140/142 are each constructed substantially of a sun-protective fabric having an Ultraviolet
Protection Factor (UPF) of at least 50, wherein the fabric used for the short-sleeve garment
and long-sleeves matches or is compatible in color and pattern, or is otherwise visually
pleasing or compatible, for example with contrasting or fashion-compatible colors or
patterns. In addition, the fabric used for the long-sleeves is in one example embodiment a
stretch fabric or a fabric constructed with a stretchable weave. In one example embodiment,
the long-sleeves 140/142 are sized to form-fit on the entire arm, including the forearm
125/127, elbow 128/129 and upper arm 124/126. In another alternate embodiment, only the
end 144 that is positioned over the upper arm is constructed of stretch fabric to grip at least
the upper arm 124/126 so that the long-sleeves stay in place on the wearer's upper arm when
the user is engaging in physical activity involving the movement of the wearer's arm. In the
case where stretch fabric is used for the entire or substantially all of the long-sleeves, the
elasticity of the fabric is selected so that it is snug but not uncomfortably tight or substantially
restrictive of arm movement, particularly at the elbow and wrist.
According to one example embodiment, the sun-protective fabric(s) used for the short-sleeve
garment or long-sleeves is one of the following fabrics (or combinations thereof) having a
minimum UPF of 15, and in one example embodiment at least a UPF of 50:

1) Microfiber fabricsfor example tightly woven;

2) Microfiber fabrics containing enhanced titanium dioxide (an UV diffuser);

3) Microfiber fabrics optionally combined with a mesh fabric such as CoolMax, (in one
embodiment a four-channel polyester fiber construction where the fibers are structured to
provide consistent air permeability and do not require chemical treatments to maintain this
function), for ventilation and moisture management;

4) A plaited fabric in which the weave and cover factor of the cotton exterior provides
protection, optionally combined with CoolMax fabric (interior wicks away moisture,
keeping the skin dry);

5) A knitted polyester/Lycra blend fabric that has a high cover factor, moisture management
and some stretch;

6) Tightly knitted synthetics that provide UV protection, stretch well, and are chlorine and
salt water resistant;

7) A natural cotton canvas with a tight weave that creates a good cover factor;

8) Optionally fabrics are treated with the UV-absorbent compound TINOSORBFD (a

constitution of two UV-B-absorbing moieties bound to a UV-A absorbing structure),
developed by Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corporation, applied to the fabric as an invisible dye
that permeates the cloth's fibers so it does not block clothing porosity or change the fabric's
texture;

9) Fabrics incorporating Nano crystalline zinc oxide particles in a polymer matrix;

10) Fabrics having added chemicals or particles such as UV absorbers or UV diffusers; and

11) Any other fabrics with a weave that diffuses, absorbs or blocks sun.
According to another example embodiment; the sun-protective fabric(s) 162 used for the
long-sleeve garment is constructed of one or more of the above fabrics constructed to allow
the fabric to stretch and form-fit on the wearer's arm. Further, according to one example
embodiment, a combination of the above-listed fabrics 160 or 162 may be used to construct
garment 110 or sleeves 140/142. According to still another example embodiment, the fabrics
for the garment and/or sleeves are selected both to provide the desired UV-blocking level and
also for their properties to provide ventilation, breathability, cooling, and/or moisture
wicking.

According to another example embodiment, the fabrics for the garment or sleeves may be
formed from fabrics with no additional UV-blocking enhancement if the fabrics achieve the
desired UV-blocking based on their inherent fiber structure, density of weave, and dye
componentsespecially darker colors and indigo dyes. Examples of these fabrics contain full
percentages and/or blends of heavy weight natural fibers like cotton, linen and hemp or light-
weight synthetics such as polyester, nylon, Lycra and polypropylene, Natural or synthetic
indigo dyed denim, twill weaves and canvas are other examples.

According to one example embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, short-sleeve garment 110
is a tennis shirt, also called a polo shirt or a golf shirt. More particularly, garment 110 is a T-
shaped shirt with a collar and two or three buttons down a slit below the collar. Alternatively,
the slit may be outfitted with a zipper as opposed to buttons. Garment 110, in another
example embodiment, may also include two small slits 111 on the bottom of either side of the
garment, and an optional pocket.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, sun protection system 100 is packaged for distribution in a package
300 wherein the garment 110 and sleeves 140/142 are folded and positioned inside the
package 300. Package 300 optionally includes a printed label 310 either affixed on the
outside of the package and/or the printed label 310 is inserted in the package, or both.
Alternatively, labels are provided sewn into or attached to the short sleeve garment 110 or
sleeves 140/142. Label 310 (or the labels in the garment or sleeves) includes, in one example
embodiment, a human-understandable depiction of the system 100 informing a prospective
user of the system as to how the garment 110 is used in combination with the sleeves 140/142
to obtain sun protection for the torso and arms, and also a size for the system, such as men's
or women's sizes in US, European or other size standards, and the UPF rating (or other sun-
protective rating) of the garment system and/or fabric used in the garment system. Further, in
one example embodiment, the package 310 is transparent at least enough in whole or in part
to allow a prospective user of the system to see the design of the garment 110, and optionally
the sleeves 140/142. In another example embodiment, system 100 is fastened together with
pins, clips or other fasteners, or hung on a hanger, with the short sleeved garment 110 and
sleeves 140/142 tethered, fastened or otherwise kept together as a system for distribution to a
wearer. Optionally, system 100 is fastened together with fasteners 320 and includes one or
more labels 310 but is not placed in a package 300.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 through 10 there is illustrated alternate embodiments for garment
110. In alternate embodiment 110A shown in FIG. 5, the garment 110A is a T-shirt with no
collar. In FIG. 6, the shirt 11013 has a slit for the neck but no collar. In FIG. 7, the garment
110C is a crew-neck, and in FIG. 8, the garment 110D is a turtle neck. Further, other alternate
embodiments of the short-sleeve garment 110 are also possible, including a collared button-
down garment 110E as show in FIG. 9. In another example embodiment shown in FIG. 10,
system 100 includes a swim shirt or one-piece swimsuit 110F with short sleeves.

According to yet another example embodiment, the fabrics described herein for garment 110
and sleeves 140/142 are tested in accordance with AATCC 183. In addition, these fabrics are
also lifecycle tested in accordance with a standard at least as rigorous the ASTM D 6544,
Further, the garment 110 and sleeves 140/142 may be labelled in accordance with ASTM D
6603.

Further, according to still another example embodiment, the fabrics used for the garment or
sleeves may have a UV rating greater or lesser than substantially 50, and in particular may
have a rating of substantially 15 or greater, or in another example embodiment at least
substantially great enough to meet one or more of any minimum standard established by a
Government body or a trade organization for clothing that can claim sun-protective properties
according to such standard.

Accordingly, the inventive technology described above provides a sun-protective garment

system that is adapted for warm weather uses and that protects both a torso of user and in
particular also the forearms, without the limitations of requiring a long-sleeve shirt. In
addition, the sun-protective garment system is adapted to be used in sports requiring vigorous
use of the arms such as tennis, golf, baseball, soccer, cricket and other outdoor sports
involving running or throwing. This system offers those engaging in outdoor activities a
superior sun-protective alternative to use of sunscreen on the forearms (that can wear or wash
off) and to wearing a long-sleeve shirt, which may result in unwanted restraint of arm
movement, over-heating discomfort and perhaps even more so appear odd to wear on a hot,
sunny day. As a result, the inventive system described herein offers both individuals and the
health care system a greater opportunity to protect the forearms from sun damage and from
the accompanying higher risk of cancer and other skin ailments resulting from excess UV
exposure.

It is understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive.
Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the
above description. The scope of the inventive subject matter should, therefore, be determined
with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such
claims are entitled.

CLAIMS

1. A protective clothing system comprising:

a short sleeve garment having a first torso portion to cover a wearer's torso and right and left
short-sleeves to cover the wearer's upper arms, the short-sleeves extending down from the
shoulder of the user to cover a substantial portion of the wearer's upper arm and terminating
in a hem, the short sleeve garment having a polyester fiber construction where the fibers are
structured to provide air permeability for ventilation and moisture management;

right and left long-sleeves having a tubular shape so that the wearer can slide an arm into a
respective one of each of the long-sleeves so that one end of the long-sleeve reaches the
upper arm at a position above the hem of the short-sleeve, and the other end of the long-
sleeve reaches to the wrist of the wearer, each of the long-sleeves hemmed at least on the
other end, the long-sleeves tailored so that a portion is sized to cover the wearer's upper arm
and is relatively greater in diameter than a portion is sized to cover the wearer's forearm;

the short-sleeve garment and long sleeves each constructed substantially of a sun-protective
fabric having an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of substantially 15 or greater, wherein
the fabric used for the short-sleeve garment and long-sleeves is substantially the same fabric
and matches or is compatible in color and pattern, and wherein the fabric used for the long-
sleeves is a stretch fabric and the long-sleeves are sized to form-fit on at least a portion of the
wearer's arm so that the long-sleeves stay in place on the wearer's upper arm when the user is
engaging in physical activity involving the movement of the wearer's arm;

The short sleeve garment and long-sleeves having a coordinated size so that the long-sleeves
are sized to substantially fit an expected arm size for a wearer of the corresponding short-
sleeve garment size;

the sun-protective fabric further including at least one UV-blocking component selected from
the group of: (i) a chemical that diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation or (ii) a particle that
diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation; and

The UPF rating for the sun-protective fabric being determined for the fabric according to a
test that determines compliance with a sun-protective rating system established by a standards
body.

2. A protective clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the fabric is a micro-fiber

fabric.

3. A protective clothing system according to claim 1 wherein the short sleeve garment is
selected from the group of a T-shirt, a tennis shirt, a swim shirt, a button down shirt, a crew
neck shirt or a turtle-neck shirt.

4. A protective clothing system comprising:

a short sleeve garment having a first torso portion to cover a wearer's torso and right and left
short-sleeves to cover the wearer's upper arms, the short-sleeves extending down from the
shoulder of the user to cover a substantial portion of the wearer's upper arm and terminating
in a hem;

right and left long-sleeves having a tubular shape so that the wearer can slide an arm into a
respective one of each of the long-sleeves so that one end of the long-sleeve reaches the
upper arm at a position above the hem of the short-sleeve, and the other end of the long-
sleeve reaches to the wrist of the wearer, each of the long-sleeves hemmed at least on the
other end;

the short-sleeve garment and long sleeves each constructed substantially of a sun-protective
fabric having an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of substantially 15 or greater, wherein
the fabric used for the short-sleeve garment and long-sleeves matches or is compatible in
color and pattern, and wherein the fabric used for the long-sleeves is a stretch fabric and the
long-sleeves are sized to form-fit on at least a portion of the wearer's arm so that the long-
sleeves stay in place on the wearer's upper arm when the user is engaging in physical activity
involving the movement of the wearer's arm;

The sun-protective fabric further including at least one UV-blocking component selected
from the group of: (i) a chemical that diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation or (ii) a
particle that diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation;

The short sleeve garment and long-sleeves having a coordinated size so that the long-sleeves
are sized to substantially fit an expected arm size for a wearer of the corresponding short-
sleeve garment size;

One or more fasteners and/or a package to hold the short sleeve garment and the long-sleeves
together for distribution to wearers;

One or more labels on the short-sleeve garment and/or the package to indicate the size of the
garment system to enable a prospective wearer of the system to select the correct sized
system for their use; and

the UPF rating for the sun-protective fabric being determined for the fabric according to a test
that determines compliance with a sun-protective rating system established by a standards
body, and further wherein the one or more labels includes indicia specifying the UPF rating
for the fabric or garment.

5. A protective clothing system according to claim 4 wherein the fabric includes titanium
dioxide.

6. A protective clothing system according to claim 4 wherein the short sleeve garment is
selected from the group of a T-shirt, a tennis shirt, a swim shirt, a button down shirt, a crew
neck shirt or a turtle-neck shirt.

7. A protective clothing system comprising:

a short sleeve garment having a first torso portion to cover a wearer's torso and right and left
short-sleeves to cover the wearer's upper arms, the short-sleeves extending down from the
shoulder of the user to cover a substantial portion of the wearer's upper arm and terminating
in a hem;
right and left long-sleeves having a tubular shape so that the wearer can slide an arm into a
respective one of each of the long-sleeves so that one end of the long-sleeve reaches the
upper arm at a position above the hem of the short-sleeve, and the other end of the long-
sleeve reaches to the wrist of the wearer, each of the long-sleeves hemmed at least on the
other end;

the short-sleeve garment and long sleeves each constructed substantially of a sun-protective
fabric having an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of substantially 15 or greater, wherein
the fabric used for the short-sleeve garment and long-sleeves matches or is compatible in
color and pattern, and wherein the fabric used for the long-sleeves is a stretch fabric and the
long-sleeves are sized to form-fit on at least a portion of the wearer's arm so that the long-
sleeves stay in place on the wearer's upper arm when the user is engaging in physical activity
involving the movement of the wearer's arm;

The sun-protective fabric further including at least one UV-blocking component selected
from the group of: (i) a chemical that diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation or (ii) a
particle that diffuses, absorbs or blocks UV radiation;

The short sleeve garment and long-sleeves having a coordinated size so that the long-sleeves
are sized to substantially fit an expected arm size for a wearer of the corresponding short-
sleeve garment size; and

One or more fasteners and/or a package to hold the short sleeve garment and the long-sleeves
together for distribution to wearers.

8. A protective clothing system according to claim 7 wherein the fabric is a micro-fiber.

9. A protective clothing system according to claim 7 wherein the short sleeve garment is
selected from the group of a T-shirt, a tennis shirt, a swim shirt, a button down shirt, a crew
neck shirt or a turtle-neck shirt.
 SELF-TYING SHOE

Publication number US20050198867 A1

Publication type Application

Application number US 11/078,986

Publication date Sep 15, 2005

Filing date Mar 11, 2005
Priority date Mar 12, 2004

Inventors Frederick Labbe

Original Assignee Frederick Labbe

ABSTRACT

A self-tying shoe wherein the weight of a user who, upon sliding his foot inside the shoe will
depress a hingedly movable inner sole which actuates a mechanism which pulls on the laces
so as to close in the tongue of the shoe towards the user's foot, thus lacing the shoe. The user
can simply pump the inner sole or walk a couple of steps to accomplish the lacing of the
shoes. Using his other foot, the user can move a knob in either one of two positions, one
being for tying and the other being for untying the shoe. Most of the mechanical components
are situated underneath the movable inner sole and are interconnected in a way reminiscent of
the cooperating interconnections of clockwork.
DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the invention

The invention relates generally to footwear but more particularly to a system for tying down
shoes.

2. Background of the Invention

Lacing shoes is boring business and several inventors have tried over the years to simplify the
matter.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,741,115 shows a ski boot with an operating assembly for the closing and
adjustment and comprises a power source supported by the ski boot and operating a driving
gearwheel which is selectively engageable with driven gearwheels for the winding of cables
of closing and/or adjustment devices of the boot.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,205,055 shows a shoe member including a plurality of securement webs
directed about a lacing gap within the shoe upper, wherein the webs are each mounted
slidably within associated cavities, with tether lines mounted to the webs operative above a
crank pulley, with the crank pulley in operative engagement with a slidable actuator rod to
effect projection of the securement webs forcibly within each respective cavity, wherein a gas
cylinder is operative to effect rotation of the crank pulley by use of an associated slide rod
within a guide cylinder to effect winding of each associated tether line relative to each
associated securement web.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,335,401 shows a device for quickly tightening shoelaces on a shoe and for
locking the tightened laces without the need for tying a bow or other knot. The device
includes a body unit with a slotted opening formed with a chamfered edge along one side of
the slot. A rotatable shaft which includes a set of chamfered ridges rolls laterally across the
width of the slot. A shoelace introduced through the slot becomes pinched between the
chamfered edge of the slotted opening and the chamfered ridges of the shaft. The shaft is
spring biased to automatically lock the laces in place upon being tightened to the desired
tension. A quick release lever retracts the shaft to unpinch the lace.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,325 shows a shoe having a central rotary closure arranged on the heel of
the upper in the area above the location at which the heel bone is received and having at least
one tightening element which has a tightening section running from the central rotary closure
towards each side of the shoe. The tightening sections are coupled by a coupling element with
at least one strap which runs from each tightening section or coupling element over the instep
or/and by the arch to the other tightening section or coupling element.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,600,874 shows a central closing device for shoes with a rotationally supported
cord disc for at least one cord-type tensioning member for closing the shoe in such a way that
the number of rotations of the cord disc is limited without any increasing the space required.
Both the cord disc and a stationary member each have mutually-cooperating tooth profiles
having the same tooth pitch but of different diameters. Located in the intermediate space
created due to the different diameters of the tooth profiles is an idling pinion of the same
pitch, which meshes with the two tooth profiles. At least one stop is provided to limit the
travel of the idling pinion.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,021 shows a device for tying a shoelace on a shoe. The device includes a
base and a cover hingedly mounted on the base so as to be pivotable between an open
position and a closed position. The base includes a top surface, a bottom surface and first and
second holes which are sized and shaped so that the shoelace can be inserted there through.
The cover includes a top surface, a bottom surface and first and second pins which are
aligned so as to project into the first and second holes, respectively, when the cover is in the
closed position. The cover also includes a locking tab which engages with a tip on the base to
releasable lock the cover in the closed position.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,210 shows a shoe incorporating adjustable straps that are positioned to
tighten the shoe casing around a wearer's instep. A retractor mechanism incorporates elastic
members. The elastic members are charged when the wearer loosens the shoe by pulling on
the straps. The stored energy is released when a catch is disengaged and releases the elastic
members to tighten and cinch the shoe on the wearer's foot.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,202,953 shows a footwear lacing system that includes a lace attached to a
tightening mechanism. The lace is threaded through a series of opposing guide members
positioned along the top of the foot and ankle portions of the footwear. The lace and guide
preferably have low friction surfaces to facilitate sliding of the lace through the guide
members so that the lace evenly distributes tension across the footwear member. The
tightening mechanism allows incremental adjustment of the tension of the lace. A release
mechanism allows a user to quickly loosen the lace.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,467,194 shows an automated tightening shoe with crisscrossed laces and a
tightening mechanism which operates in one direction to cause automatic tightening of the
crisscrossed laces to tighten the shoe about a wearer's foot, and which can be released easily
so that the shoe can be removed from the wearer's foot.

Some inventions are concerned with maintaining a proper tension to the laces while other
systems use straps as means for tying the shoe, the latter being rather restrictive since it limits
the outer design choices of the shoe since because of the proprietary straps. Still another
system involves the use of pneumatic means which adds undue complexity to the shoes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known devices now present in the
prior art, the present invention, which will be described subsequently in greater detail, is to
provide objects and advantages which are:

To provide for fast simple tying and untying of shoe laces.

To attain this end, the present invention provides for an efficient way of tying shoes using the
weight of the user who, upon sliding his foot inside the shoe will depress a hingedly movable
inner sole which actuates a mechanism which pulls on the laces so as to close in the tongue of
the shoe towards the user's foot, thus lacing the shoe. The user can simply pump the inner
sole or walk a couple of steps to accomplish the lacing of the shoes. Using his other foot, the
user can move a knob in either one of two positions, one being for tying and the other being
for untying the shoe. Most of the mechanical components are situated underneath the
movable inner sole and are interconnected in a way reminiscent of the cooperating

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the invention in
order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order
that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features
of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of
the claims appended hereto.
In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be
understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and
to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in
the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and
carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology
employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this
disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures,
methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is
important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions
insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark
Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in
the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly
from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the
application. The abstract is neither intended to define the invention of the application, which
is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in
any way.

These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty
which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to
and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating
advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the
accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there is illustrated preferred
embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 See through isometric view of the shoe unlaced with the inner sole in an
upward position.

FIG. 2 See through isometric view of the shoe laced with the inner sole in a
downward position.
FIG. 3 Isometric view of the interior mechanism with the inner sole in an upward position.

FIG. 4 Isometric view of the interior mechanism with the inner sole in a downward position.
FIG. 5 See through side elevation with the inner sole in a downward position.

FIG. 7 Exploded view of the interior mechanism.

FIG. 7 bc Side cutaway detail of the peg and sleeve showing the open and closed positions

respectively

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 a self-tying shoe (30) has an interior mechanism (32) which consists of visible
elements such as an inner sole (7) hingedly attached to a base (1) set inside the shoe (30). In
this illustration, the inner sole (7) is in an up position. An <<M>> shaped lace holding rod
(20) is integrated within a standard tongue (not shown) typically found on a shoe, at least one
long lace or a pair of laces (21) preferably made of a strong resilient material which makes
them thinner than laces known in the art. A tying/untying button (14) situated on the side of
an outer sole (34) selects the tying or untying mode. The laces (21) pass through ordinary
shoe grommets (not shown). The holding rod (20) is a biasing means normally in an outward
configuration, as illustrated, and which pulls on the laces (21).

FIG. 2 shows an example of a tied shoe (30) wherein the inner sole (7) is in a downward
position and the laces (21) are tied.
FIG. 3 A biasing means (9) counteracts the downward pressure created by a user and allows
for the inner sole (7) to return to its upward position once the weight of the user is removed.
The inner sole (7), as stated hereinabove, is hingedly attached to the shoe by mechanical
fasteners (19) connected to mechanical fastening holes (500) which provide a limited range
of pivoting motion.

FIG. 7 The interior mechanism (32) has a base (1) within which are found most of the
components. A ratcheted wheel (2) acts as a winch to wind the laces (21) which are, as
described earlier, very thin so that they can easily be wound around the ratcheted wheel (2) as
it rotates and without taking up too much space. The rotation of the ratcheted wheel (2) is
provided by a power screw (4) which does not rotate when a downward motion is induced to
it from the weight of a user as applied on the inner sole (7), this has for effect of inducing a
counter clockwise rotation on the top plate (5) which has a central threaded hole (510) so
threaded as to match threads of the power screw (4). Since the top plate (5) is mechanically
connected to the ratcheted wheel (2), by stubs (193) engaging notches (194) found on the
ratcheted wheel (2), it causes the ratcheted wheel (2) to also turn and wind the laces (21). An
elastomer absorber (3) is sandwiched between the top plate (5) and the ratcheted wheel (2) to
act as both a cushioning means and biasing means. The ratcheted wheel (2) is allowed to
rotate in only one direction for as long as a lower pawl (15) is engaged to it. A toothed wheel
(6) is allowed to rotate in one direction by being locked by a pawl (8) which makes it so that
it blocks the power screw (4) from rotating when a downward motion is induced to it as
explained hereinabove but when pressure is released, which involves other steps describes
hereinafter, the ratcheted wheel (2) and the top plate (5) do not rotate but the power screw (4)
does, so it induces rotation onto the toothed wheel (6) which is mechanically connected to the
power screw (4) by a multisided top (195) engaging a multisided opening (196) in the toothed
wheel (6). At this stage there is more friction on the ratcheted wheel (2) than on the toothed
wheel (6) so the rotating toothed wheel (6) allows the rotation of the power screw (4). The
toothed wheel (6) frictionally rotates against the smooth surface of a disc (197) extending
integrally from underneath the inner sole (7). The function of the toothed wheel (6) is simply
to block rotation of the power screw (4) so that the power screw (4) can induce rotation of the
ratcheted wheel (2). The rotation of the toothed wheel (6) per se does not accomplish any
other function. By being allowed to rotate in only one direction, the ratcheted wheel (2) can
only tie down the laces (21). In this arrangement, the absorber (3), the power screw (4), the
top plate (5), the toothed wheel (6), and the pawl (8) all cooperate and interact together.
When the shoe (30) is sufficiently tied, a balance is reached between the tension applied by
the laces (21) to the user's foot and the biasing means (9) which stops any additional motion
from the inner sole (7) so that the power screw (4) can no longer induce rotation of the
ratcheted wheel (2).

A hood (11), mechanically fastened to the base (1) by mechanical fasteners (19) engaging
mechanical fastening holes (500), creates a containment within which some of the
components such as the ratcheted wheel (2), the lower pawl (15), an actuator (16) and an
actuator biasing means (17) are and it also supports a casing (10) fastened on top of it by
mechanical fasteners (19). The casing (10) holds within it the components of the
tying/untying button (14) which consist of a double pin (12, 13), similar in construction to the
mechanism used in ballpoint pens that brings the tip in or out of the pen. The tying/untying
button (14), when depressed, pushes against the double pin (12, 13), which in turn pushes on
an actuator (16) and the actuator (16) in turn pushes against both the lower pawl (15) and the
upper pawl (8) in order to free both the ratcheted wheel (2) and the toothed wheel (6), which
releases the laces (21) so that the lace holding rod (20) can pull on the laces (21). Freeing
both the lower pawl (15) and the upper pawl (8) allows for the rotation of the power screw (4)
briefly discussed hereinabove. Pushing once more on the tying/untying button (14) brings the
actuator (16) back to its initial configuration which allows for the reengagement of both the
lower pawl (15) and the upper pawl (8). An actuator biasing means (17) helps in bringing the
actuator to its initial position. A pair of tubes (18) guide the laces (21) to laces passageways

FIGS. 7 ab In order to limit vertical motion of the inner sole (7), mechanical fastener (400) is
fastened to a peg (192) and is allowed to slide within sleeve (191) which has a narrow
opening (190) through which the head (189) of mechanical fastener (400) cannot pass, thus

As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and operation of the present invention, the
same should be apparent from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion
relating to the manner of usage and operation will be provided. With respect to the above
description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of
operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the
art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the
specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.
Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention.
Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the
art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and
described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to,
falling within the scope of the invention.

CLAIMS

1. A self-tying shoe comprising:

A lace holding rod integrated within a standard shoe tongue;

At least one set of lace;

A tying/untying button situated on the side of an outer sole to select a tying or an untying
mode;

Said lace holding rod being a biasing means normally in an outward configuration so as to
pull on said lace;

An inner sole hinged attached to a base by mechanical fasteners connected to mechanical

fastening holes which provide a limited range of pivoting motion;

Said base set inside said shoe;

A biasing means to counteract the downward pressure created by a user and allowing for said
inner sole to return to an upward position once the weight of said user is removed;

A ratcheted wheel acting as a winch to wind said lace around itself;

a power screw inducing rotation to a top plate having a central threaded hole so threaded as to
match threads of said power screw;

Rotation of said top plate being mechanically connected to say ratcheted wheel inducing
rotation of said ratcheted wheel;

mechanical connection of said top plate to said ratcheted wheel being by way of stubs
engaging notches situated on said ratcheted wheel;
An elastomer absorber being sandwiched between said top plate and said ratcheted wheel to
act as both a cushioning means and biasing means;

a lower pawl interacting with said ratcheted wheel to limit said ratcheted wheel to only one
rotational direction for as long as said lower pawl is engaged to said ratcheted wheel;

a pawl interacting with a toothed wheel to limit said toothed wheel to only one rotational
direction for as long as said pawl is engaged to said toothed wheel;

said power screw inducing rotation onto said toothed wheel which is mechanically connected
to said power screw by a multisided top engaging a multisided opening in said toothed wheel;

Said toothed wheel frictionally rotating against the surface of a disc extending integrally from
underneath said inner sole.

a hood mechanically fastened to said base by mechanical fasteners engaging mechanical

fastening holes to create a containment within which are said ratcheted wheel, said lower
pawl, an actuator, and an actuator biasing means;

said hood also supporting a casing fastened on top of said hood by said mechanical fasteners;

said casing holding within it a double pin;

a tying/untying button pushing against said double pin when depressed;

said tying/untying button also pushing on an actuator and said actuator in turn pushing
against both said lower pawl and said upper pawl in order to free both said ratcheted wheel
and said toothed wheel;

said released ratcheted wheel releasing said lace.

2. A self tying shoe having an inner sole, a top plate and a power screw having the following
method of use:

The weight of a user is applied on said inner sole, this has for effect of inducing rotation of
said top plate;
Said power screw not rotating when said inner sole inducing a downward motion onto it but
inducing rotation to said top plate having a central threaded hole so threaded as to match
threads of said power screw;

Rotation of said ratcheted wheel being provided by said top plate mechanically connected to
said ratcheted wheel by stubs engaging notches found on said ratcheted wheel;

Said ratcheted wheel winding at least one lace around itself;

Winding said lace causing tying of said shoe;

when said shoe is sufficiently tied, a balance is reached between the tension applied by the
lace to the user's foot and a biasing means stops any additional motion from said inner sole so
that said power screw no longer induces rotation of said ratcheted wheel;

a tying/untying button, when depressed, pushes against a double pin, which in turn pushes on
an actuator and said actuator in turn pushes against both a lower pawl engaging said ratcheted
wheel and an upper pawl engaging said toothed wheel in order to free both said ratcheted
wheel and said toothed wheel, which releases said lace so that a lace holding rod can pull on
said lace;

pushing once more on said tying/untying button brings said actuator back to its initial
configuration which allows for the reengagement of both said lower pawl and said upper
pawl.
 PROCESS FOR RECYCLING DENIM WASTE

Publication number US5369861 A

Publication type Grant

Application number US 08/184,110

Publication date Dec 6, 1994

Filing date Jan 21, 1994
Priority date Jan 21, 1994

Fee status Lapsed

Inventors Darlene L. Ball, Max H. Hance

Original Assignee Burlington Industries, Inc.

PROCESS FOR RECYCLING DENIM WASTEMA

Majority of fiber lengths greater than about 0.4 inches, and an average length greater than 0.5
inches. the denim fibers are then opened, and subjected to low-tension carding, as by using a
rieter c-4 card with conveyor belt. the carded denim fibers are spun into filling yarn having a
yarn count between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1, and/or a warp or knitting yarn having a yarn count
between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1. the warp or knitting yarn may be plied with like reclaimed
warp yarn, or with virgin fiber warp yarn. there may also be the steps of adding lubricant to
the fibers, sorting the denim waste by color and separately processing different colors of
denim waste, making the denim fabric into apparel, dyeing the yarn or fabric to provide a
substantially uniform color or fabric, and/or cleaning the fibers between the opening and
carding steps. the denim fabric produced has strength and related properties sufficient for
consumer
DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an era of scarce resources and increasing population, it is desirable to reclaim and reuse as
many resources as possible. In the textile industry, for many years wool clothing and other
types of woolen products have been torn apart using a process known as garnetting and the
fibers reused in clothing and wool rugs. Garnetting is a process by which material such as
threads, rags, woven cloth scraps, and the like are broken up and returned to a substantial
fluffy, fibrous condition simulating the original condition of the fiber. This is done by first
chopping the material to small pieces (e.g. two to six inches) and then running the pieces
through a series of high speed cylinders which can be covered with wire (e.g. saw wire), steel
spikes, or the like. The treatment breaks up the material into individual fibers typically having
a length of one and one-eighth inches or less.

Despite the known desirability of reusing resourcesCLAIMS(20)

What is claimed is:

1. A method of making denim fabric comprising tile steps of substantially sequentially:

(a) collecting denim waste;

(b) removing starch and size from tile denim waste;

(c) garnetting tile denim waste to produce denim fibers having the vast majority of fiber
lengths greater than about 0.4 inches;

(d) opening the denim fibers;

(e) low-tension carding the opened denim fibers;

(f) spinning tile carded denim fibers into yarn; and

(g) weaving or knitting tile yarn into fabric having at least about 40% of the total fiber
content of the fabric from the denim waste collected in step (a).
2. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising tile further step, between steps (c) and (d), of
adding lubricant to the fibers to reduce friction among fibers during tile practice of steps (e)
and (f).

3. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (g) is practiced by weaving, and step (f) is
practiced to produce filling yarn.

4. A method as recited in claim 3 wherein step (f) is also practiced to produce warp yarn, and
wherein step (g) is practiced using both filling and warp yarn from step (f), and wherein step
(c) is practiced so that the average length of fiber produced is greater than 0.5 inches.

5. A method as recited in claim 4 comprising the further step of plying warp yarns from step
(f) together before practicing step (g).

6. A method as recited in claim 4 comprising the further step of plying warp yarns from step
(f) together with virgin denim yarn before practicing step (g).

7. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step of adding some virgin denim
fiber, up to about 50% of the total fiber content, to the denim fibers from step (c) prior to step
(e).

8. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (g) is practiced by knitting the yarn into fabric.

9. A method as recited in claim 8 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce knitting
yarn having a yarn count between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1.

10. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (b) is practiced by treating the denim
material with amylase enzyme.

11. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (a) is practiced by collecting only pre-
consumer denim waste.

12. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (a) is practiced by collecting post-consumer
denim waste, and comprising the further step of removing non-denim materials from the post-
consumer denim waste.
13. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (a) is practiced by collecting both pre-
consumer and post-consumer denim waste, and comprising the further step of removing non-
denim material from the post-consumer denim waste.

14. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising tile further step, between steps (a) and (b), of
sorting the denim waste by color, and separately processing different colors of denim waste.

15. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising tile further step of making the denim fabric
into denim apparel.

16. A method as recited in claim 3 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce denim
fabric having approximately 100% of the fiber content thereof from the fiber collected in step
(a).

17. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step, after either step (f) or step (g),
of dyeing the yarn or fabric to provide a substantially uniform color of fabric from step (g).

18. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (e) is practiced using a Rieter C-4 card with
conveyor belt.

19. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step of cleaning the fibers between
steps (d) and (e), and wherein step (g) is practiced to produce fabric having at least about
60% of the total fiber content of the fabric from the denim waste collected in step (a).

20. A method as recited in claim 4 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce filling
yarn having a yarn count between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1, and warp yarn having a yarn count
between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1., and the known recycling of woolen products for many years,
attempts to reclaim and reuse cotton fibers from old garmeCLAIMS(20)

19. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step of cleaning the fibers between
steps (d) and (e), and wherein step (g) is practiced to produce fabric having at least about
60% of the total fiber content of the fabric from the denim waste collected in step (a).

20. A method as recited in claim 4 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce filling
yarn having a yarn count between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1, and warp yarn having a yarn count
between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1.ere may also be the further step, between the opening and
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic box diagram schematically illustrating exemplary method steps in the
practice of the method according to the present invention:
FIG. 2 is a side schematic view illustrating an exemplary cleaner used in practicing the
"clean" step of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 3 is a schematic view illustrating the operation of a low-tension card machine in the
practice of the method of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

CLAIMS

What is claimed is:

1. A method of making denim fabric comprising tile steps of substantially sequentially:

(a) collecting denim waste;

(b) removing starch and size from tile denim waste;

(c) garnetting tile denim waste to produce denim fibers having the vast majority of fiber
lengths greater than about 0.4 inches;

(d) opening the denim fibers;

(e) low-tension carding the opened denim fibers;

(f) spinning tile carded denim fibers into yarn; and

(g) weaving or knitting tile yarn into fabric having at least about 40% of the total fiber
content of the fabric from the denim waste collected in step (a).

2. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising tile further step, between steps (c) and (d), of
adding lubricant to the fibers to reduce friction among fibers during tile practice of steps (e)
and (f).

3. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (g) is practiced by weaving, and step (f) is
practiced to produce filling yarn.

4. A method as recited in claim 3 wherein step (f) is also practiced to produce warp yarn, and
wherein step (g) is practiced using both filling and warp yarn from step (f), and wherein step
(c) is practiced so that the average length of fiber produced is greater than 0.5 inches.

5. A method as recited in claim 4 comprising the further step of plying warp yarns from step
(f) together before practicing step (g).

6. A method as recited in claim 4 comprising the further step of plying warp yarns from step
(f) together with virgin denim yarn before practicing step (g).

7. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step of adding some virgin denim
fiber, up to about 50% of the total fiber content, to the denim fibers from step (c) prior to step
(e).

8. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (g) is practiced by knitting the yarn into fabric.

9. A method as recited in claim 8 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce knitting
yarn having a yarn count between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1.
10. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (b) is practiced by treating the denim
material with amylase enzyme.

11. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (a) is practiced by collecting only pre-
consumer denim waste.

12. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (a) is practiced by collecting post-consumer
denim waste, and comprising the further step of removing non-denim materials from the post-
consumer denim waste.

13. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (a) is practiced by collecting both pre-
consumer and post-consumer denim waste, and comprising the further step of removing non-
denim material from the post-consumer denim waste.

14. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising tile further step, between steps (a) and (b), of
sorting the denim waste by color, and separately processing different colors of denim waste.

15. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising tile further step of making the denim fabric
into denim apparel.

16. A method as recited in claim 3 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce denim
fabric having approximately 100% of the fiber content thereof from the fiber collected in step
(a).

17. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step, after either step (f) or step (g),
of dyeing the yarn or fabric to provide a substantially uniform color of fabric from step (g).

18. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein step (e) is practiced using a Rieter C-4 card with
conveyor belt.

19. A method as recited in claim 1 comprising the further step of cleaning the fibers between
steps (d) and (e), and wherein step (g) is practiced to produce fabric having at least about
60% of the total fiber content of the fabric from the denim waste collected in step (a).

20. A method as recited in claim 4 wherein steps (f) and (g) are practiced to produce filling
yarn having a yarn count between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1, and warp yarn having a yarn count
between about 4.0/1 to 16.0/1.
Patent name - Stone washed denim jeans

Patent year - 1987

Process and invention - Novozymes, a Danish, biotech

company specializing in enzymes and microorganisms
pioneered the use of enzymes in the treatment of fabrics.
Though not previously involved in the textile industry, in 1987
the company developed and patented a technology for the
treatment of stone washed denim jeans.

This technology is based on an enzyme called cellulose, which removes some of the indigo
dye from denim so as to give the fabric a worn look. Within three years, most of the denim
finishing industry was using cellulose under license from Novozymes. Today, Novozymes
technology for improving production methods and fabric finishing has been licensed
worldwide. The company holds more than 4,200 active patents and patent applications, and
pursues a pro-active licensing strategy to maximize royalty revenue from these IP assets.

Patent name - Suberis fabric

Patent year - 1998

Process and invention - The Italian company Grindi Srl. invented

Suberis, an innovative fabric made of cork, said to be as smooth as
velvet, light as silk, washable, unscratchable, stain-resistant,
waterproof and fireproof. After testing and codifying the treatment,
Grindi filed an international patent application under the Patent
Cooperation Treaty (PCT) in 1998 to protect its unique product in a large number of
countries. The Suberis fabric is used in the manufacture of clothing, footwear and sportswear,
as well as in many other applications.
PATENT US 20090326406 A1

Wearable electromyography-based controllers for human-computer interface

A Wearable Electromyography-Based Controller includes a plurality of

Electromyography (EMG) sensors and provides a wired or wireless human-computer
interface (HCl) for interacting with computing systems and attached devices via electrical
signals generated by specific movement of the user's muscles.
Following initial automated self-calibration and positional localization processes,
measurement and interpretation of muscle generated electrical signals is accomplished by
sampling signals from the EMG sensors of the Wearable Electromyography-Based
Controller.
In operation, the Wearable Electromyography-Based Controller is donned by the user
and placed into a coarsely approximate position on the surface of the user's skin.
Automated cues or instructions are then provided to the user for fine-tuning placement
of the Wearable Electromyography-Based Controller.
Examples of Wearable Electromyography-Based Controllers include articles of
manufacture, such as an armband, wristwatch, or article of clothing having a plurality of
integrated EMG-based sensor nodes and associated electronics.
Publication Number US8170656 B2
Filing date Mar 13, 2009
Publication date May 1, 2012
Original Assignee Microsoft Corporation
Inventors Desney Tan, T. Scott Saponas, Dan
Morris, Jim Turner

They got patent under 18 claim conditions which means under the 18 conditions no one can
copy the technology.
PATENT US 7192152 B1

Actuated battery operated lighted garment

An outer garment or vestment comprising a front panel and rear panel that includes an
electrical circuit of neon wire, a battery operated power pack and toggle switch so as to be
illuminated to allow play, such as touch football, tag and the like, in the darkness where the
neon wire is mounted in a lens on the rear panel with a configuration defining a focal point
such as a spiral shape and is operatively connected to the toggle switch so that depressing the
lens causes the illuminated neon wire to be turned off and a portion of the neon wire mounted
on the front panel and configured to designate each of the sides of the players. This invention
is intended for use in sports activity that is played in the night time.

Publication Number US7192152 B1

Filing date Aug 19, 2004

Publication date Mar 20, 2007

Original Assignee Hesse Martin K

Inventors Martin K. Hesse

They have given patent under 9 claim conditions under which the technology cannot be
copied.
Waterproof, breathable fabric for outdoor athletic apparel :

A layered fabric for constructing active sportswear. The fabric generally comprises the
following three layers:

(1) a shell fabric comprised of a blend of polypropylene filaments and LYCRA brand
spandex fibers

(2) a waterproof membrane laminated to the back of the shell fabric, and

(3) a mesh lining, attached to the back of the membrane.

The fabric has the qualities of being waterproof, breathable, and elastic and possesses a
number of other qualities which are highly desirable in action sportswear.

Publication number US5415924 A

Publication type Grant

Application
US 08/014,237
number

Publication date 16 May 1995

Inventors Daniel J. Herlihy, Jr.

Breastfeeding cover:

The present invention is directed to a wearable breastfeeding cover, such as a nursing

overshirt. The cover is comprised of a garment having sleeves or arm holes, a front panel
having at least one access port, and a flap member secured to the front panel

A breastfeeding cover comprising:

a fabric panel having a front side and a rear side;
at least one opening extending through the fabric panel; and
a flap member operatively attached to the fabric panel and layer over the fabric panel
such that the flap member conceals the opening

Publication
US20070124845 A1
number

Publication type Application

Application
US 11/599,916
number

Publication date 7 Jun 2007

Inventors Elizabeth McCoy