Patent ID: 6502288
Filing Date: 2003-01-07
Classification: D04H,D06C

Abstract:
A method of making a nonwoven fabric, comprising the steps of:providing a precursor web comprising a fibrous matrix; providing a three-dimensional image transfer device having a movable foraminous imaging surface facing outwardly of said three-dimensional image transfer device; providing at least one manifold having a plurality of orifices for creating high pressure liquid streams, advancing said precursor web onto said image transfer device so that said web moves with said imaging surface and said web is positioned between said manifold and said imaging surface; and hydroentangling said precursor web on said image transfer device to form an imaged and patterned nonwoven fabric by direction of said liquid streams directly against said precursor web and through said foraminous image transfer device, wherein said advancing step includes advancing said precursor web onto said movable imaging surface of said image transfer device at a rate substantially equal to the rate of movement of said movable imaging surface.