Patent Publication Number: US-7910503-B2

Title: Ballistic laminate structure

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a ballistic laminate structure in sheet form, and a method of fabricating a ballistic laminate structure. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Unidirectional fiber materials are used in ballistic-resistant structures and are disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,916,000; 4,079,161; 4,309,487 and 4,213,812. A non-woven ballistic-resistant laminate referred to by the trademark “Spectra-Shield” is manufactured by Allied-Signal, Inc. The laminate structure is used in soft body armor to protect the wearer against high-velocity bullets and fragments. “Spectra-shield” was made by first forming a non-woven unidirectional tape, which was composed of unidirectional polyethylene fibers and an elastic resin material that held the fibers together. The resin penetrated the fibers, effectively impregnating the entire structure with the resin product. Two layers, or arrays, of the unidirectional tape were then laminated together (cross-plied) at right angles to form a panel. The panel was then covered on both sides with a film of polyethylene. The film prevented adjacent panels from sticking together when the panels were layered in the soft body armor. The final panel was heavier and stiffer than desired for use as a ballistic-resistant panel. The weight and stiffness were due in part to the penetration of the entire structure with the resin product. 
     Composite ballistic-resistant structures are disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,846,548 and 7,211,291, having a plurality of filaments arranged in a fibrous web that is held together in a unitary structure by a domain matrix. The domain matrix comprises a plurality of separated matrix islands that individually connect, or bond, at least two filaments, to thereby hold the filaments in a unitary structure. Portions of the filament lengths within the unitary structure are free of matrix islands, causing the domain matrix to be discontinuous. The composite may be formed into cross-plied structures. 
     Non-woven ballistic-resistant laminates without resins are disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,437,905; 5,443,882; 5,443,883 and 5,547,536. A sheet of non-woven ballistic-resistant laminate structure was constructed of high performance fibers without using resins to hold the fibers together. Instead of resin, thermoplastic film was bonded to outer surfaces of two cross-plied layers of unidirectional fibers to hold the fibers in place. The film did not penetrate into the fibers. A sufficient amount of film resided between the bonded layers to adhere the layers together to form a sheet. Bonding the two layers of unidirectional fibers cross-plied to one another was necessary to meet structural requirements of the ballistic-resistant panel, such as impact force distribution. The individual sheets were placed loosely in a fabric envelope of an armored garment to form a ballistic-resistant panel. 
     However, known ballistic-resistant laminates are limited in their ability to provide a light weight and flexible ballistic-resistant structure in either sheet or laminate form. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is a ballistic-resistant laminate assembly having a first thin and flexible film and a pair of first and second interlinear arrays of unidirectionally-oriented bundles of high strength filaments with filament bundles of the first array each being arranged substantially interlinear with adjacent filament bundles of the second array and further being in at least intermittent contact therewith. Respective first surfaces the filament bundles of the first array are arranged in close proximity to the first surface of the first film, with substantially continuous thin linear portions of the first surface of the first film being between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles of the first array, and respective second surfaces of the filament bundles of the first array opposite the respective first surfaces thereof being arranged facing away from the first surface of the first film. Respective first surfaces of the filament bundles of the second array are arranged facing away from the first surface of the first film, with respective second surfaces of the filament bundles of the second array being arranged in close proximity to the substantially continuous thin linear portions thereof. Substantially continuous deposits of a coupling agent compatible with each of the first film and the filament bundles of the respective first and second arrays are substantially continuously coupled between the substantially continuous thin linear portions of the first surface of the first film and respective second surfaces of the filament bundles of the second array arranged in close proximity thereto. At least intermittent deposits of the coupling agent are further coupled between at least a portion of each of the filament bundles of the first array and one of either the respective adjacent filament bundles of the second array, or the substantially continuous thin linear portions of the first surface of the first film adjacent thereto. 
     According to one aspect of the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly, the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly also includes a second thin and flexible film opposite from the first film. The second film having a first surface thereof that is arranged in close proximity to respective second surfaces of the filament bundles of the first array and respective first surfaces of the filament bundles of the second array. 
     According to another aspect of the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly, the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly also includes substantially continuous deposits of the coupling agent that are substantially continuously coupled between substantially continuous thin linear portions of the first surface of the second film and respective second surfaces of the filament bundles of the first array arranged in close proximity thereto. 
     According to another aspect of the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly, the first and second films are further films selected from the group of films consisting of: plastic films, thermoplastic films, and metallic films. 
     According to another aspect of the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly, the coupling agent is further a coupling agent selected from the group of coupling agents consisting of: an adhesive, and a polymer. 
     According to another aspect of the ballistic-resistant laminate assembly, the respective second surfaces of the filament bundles of the second array are further arranged substantially coplanar with the respective first surfaces the filament bundles of the first array adjacent to the first surface of the first film. 
     Other aspects of the invention are detailed herein, including methods for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates by example and without limitation a novel method for making an exemplary novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure; 
         FIG. 2  is a plan view of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure that illustrates by example and without limitation one exemplary novel method for making the same; 
         FIG. 3  is a pictorial view of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure that illustrates by example and without limitation one exemplary novel method for making the same; 
         FIG. 4  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates one stage in an exemplary novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure; 
         FIG. 5  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates one exemplary view of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure that illustrates by example and without limitation spaced apart filament bundles of a first array interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles of a second array; 
         FIG. 6  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates the filament bundles of the first and second arrays being compressed between first and second films; 
         FIG. 7  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates the filament bundles of the first and second arrays being compressed before an interlaying step of one exemplary novel method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure wherein the spaced apart filament bundles of the first array are interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles of the second array; 
         FIG. 8  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates one alternative to the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure illustrated in  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10  are close-up cross-section views that illustrate respective additional alternative configurations of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure; 
         FIG. 11  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates another additional alternative configuration of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure in which the second layered array of filament bundles overlaps the first array of filament bundles in the overlapping or “brick” pattern; 
         FIG. 12  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates another additional alternative configuration of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure in which the second layered array of filament bundles again overlaps the first array of filament bundles; 
         FIG. 13  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates another additional alternative configuration of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure in which both first and second filament bundles are further parallelized and closely packed into the respective first and second arrays; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates another exemplary novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure resulting in an alternative embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure wherein a plurality of bundles of the twisted or untwisted high strength filaments or fibers are unidirectional, and the bundles are passed through a comb guide where the plurality of filament bundles are further parallelized and arrayed into a single closely packed array formed of a single layer having a predetermined uniform number of filament bundles per inch of width; 
         FIG. 15  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates another embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure wherein a step of the method is optionally accomplished for anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the first surfaces of the filament bundles of the closely packed array to corresponding portions of the first surface of the first film; 
         FIG. 16  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates another embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure wherein substantially continuous deposits of a coupling agent are alternatively deposited onto the exposed second surfaces of the filament bundles using an appropriate applicator; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates another exemplary novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure resulting in an alternative embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure; 
         FIG. 18  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates a stage in the novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure according to the exemplary alternative embodiment of a novel step of the method for depositing substantially continuous deposits or “beads” of a coupling agent as illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a close-up cross-section view of an exemplary novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure produced by novel step of the method for depositing substantially continuous deposits or “beads” of a coupling agent as illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates another exemplary novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure resulting in an alternative embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure; 
         FIG. 21  is a close-up cross-section view of an exemplary novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure produced by a novel step of the method for depositing substantially continuous deposits or “beads” of a coupling agent as illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 20 ; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates another exemplary novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure resulting in an alternative embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure; 
         FIG. 23  is a close-up cross-section view of an exemplary novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure produced by novel step of the method for depositing substantially continuous deposits of a coupling agent as illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a close-up cross-section view of another exemplary novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure produced by novel step of the method for depositing substantially continuous deposits of a coupling agent as illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 22 ; and 
         FIG. 25  illustrates yet another exemplary novel method for making the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure resulting in an alternative embodiment of the novel ballistic-resistant laminate structure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     In the Figures, like numerals indicate like elements. 
     Unidirectional high performance fiber materials composed, for example, of unidirectional polyethylene fibers, are well known as disclosed in the prior art by U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,916,000; 4,079,161; 4,309,487 and 4,213,812, which are incorporated in entirety herein by reference. Such high performance fiber materials are also known to be formed into composite ballistic-resistant structures as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,846,548 and 7,211,291, which are incorporated in entirety herein by reference. Alternatively, non-woven ballistic-resistant laminates are manufactured without resins as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,437,905; 5,443,882; 5,443,883 and 5,547,536, which are incorporated in entirety herein by reference. 
     First and second high strength filament bundles  11  and  21  of the present invention are elongated bodies of considerable length dimension in relation to their transverse dimensions of width and thickness. The term “filament” is used interchangeably with the term “fiber” and non-exclusively includes a monofilament, multifilament, yarn, ribbon, strip, and the like structures having regular or irregular cross-sectional areas. The filament bundles  11  and  21  for purposes of the present invention are formed of any group of fibers useful to make uni-directional tape and/or cross-plied structures. The preferred filament bundles  11  and  21  are highly oriented ultra high molecular weight polyethylene fiber, highly oriented ultra-high molecular weight polypropylene fiber, aramid fiber, polyvinyl alcohol fiber, polyacrylonitrile fiber, polybenzoxazole (PBZO) fiber, polybenzothiazole (PBZT) fibers, fiberglass, ceramic fibers or combinations thereof. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene&#39;s are generally understood to includes molecular weights of from about 500,000 or more, more preferably from about 1 million or more, and most preferably greater than about 2 million, up to an amount of approximately 5 million. 
     Known high strength filaments or fibers useful for filaments  11  and  21  of the invention include without limitation aramid fibers, fibers such as poly(phenylenediamine terephthalamide), both high and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, graphite fibers, ceramic fibers, nylon fibers, high modulus vinylon, liquid crystal polymer-based fiber, and glass fibers and the like. Aramid fiber is formed principally from aromatic polyamides. Exemplary aramid fibers include poly(-phenylenediamine terephthalamide) fibers produced commercially by DuPont Corporation of Wilmington, Del. under the trade names of Kevlar® 29, Kevlar® 49 and Kevlar® 129. 
     Polyvinyl alcohol (PV-OH) fibers are useful for the high strength filaments  11  and  21  of the invention at weight average molecular weights of at least about 100,000, preferably at least 200,000, more preferably between about 5,000,000 and about 4,000,000 and most preferably between about 1,500,000 and about 2,500,000 as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,559,267 to Kwon et al. 
     Detail on filaments of polybenzoxazoles (PBZO) and polybenzothiazoles (PBZT), may be found in “The Handbook of Fiber Science and Technology: Volume II, High Technology Fibers,” Part D, edited by Menachem Lewin, hereby incorporated by reference. 
     Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers useful in producing ballistic resistant articles are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,535,027. 
     The cross-sections of filaments  11  and  21  for use in this invention may vary widely. They may be circular, flat or oblong in cross-section. They also may be of irregular or regular multi-lobal cross-section having one or more regular or irregular lobes projecting from the linear or longitudinal axis of the fibers. It is particularly preferred that the filaments  11  and  21  be of substantially circular, flat or oblong cross-section Continuous length filaments  11  and  21  are most preferred although fibers that are oriented and have a length of from about 3 to 12 inches (about 7.6 to about 30.4 centimeters) are also acceptable and are deemed “substantially continuous” for purposes of this invention. 
     Both thermoset and thermoplastic resin particles, alone or in combination, may be used as the filaments  11  and  21 . Useful thermosets include, but are not limited to, epoxies, polyesters, acrylics, polyimides, phenolics, and polyurethanes. Useful thermoplastics include, but are not limited to, nylons, polypropylenes, polyesters, polycarbonates, acrylics, polyimides, polyetherimides, polyaryl ethers, and polyethylene and ethylene copolymers. Thermoplastic polymers possess improved environmental resistance, fracture toughness, and impact strength over thermosetting materials. Prepregs having thermoplastic domain matrices have extended shelf life, and greater resistance to environmental storage concerns. 
     The high strength filaments  11  and  21  and networks produced therefrom are formed into composite materials as the precursor or prepreg to preparing composite articles. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates by example and without limitation a method for making a ballistic-resistant laminate structure shown generally at reference numeral  10 . Here, the method includes the following steps, but is not limited to the order recited. 
     The method includes a step A of forming a first or “left” plurality of bundles  11  of untwisted high strength filaments, also referred to as fibers. Alternatively, the filament bundles  11  are twisted to add loft to the filaments. The first plurality of filament bundles  11  may be supplied from separate creeled yarn packages  12 , as shown here, or may be supplied from a warp beam (not shown). The filaments or fibers in the first plurality of filament bundles  11  are unidirectional, and the bundles are passed through a first or “left” comb guide  13  where the first plurality of filament bundles  11  are further parallelized and arrayed into a first or “left” array  14  formed of a single layer having a predetermined uniform number of filament bundles  11  per inch of width with adjacent filament bundles  11  each being spaced apart approximately a width or slightly less than a width of one filament bundle. 
     The method includes a step B in which the first single layer array  14  of filament bundles  11  are passed over a first or “left” film application roller or mandrel  15  where a first or “left” film  16  of thin and flexible polyethylene or other suitable material is applied to the first array  14  of filament bundles  11 . As an alternative to polyethylene, the thin film  16  is optionally another suitable material, including by example and without limitation but not limited to, another plastic or thermoplastic material, or a metallic film such as a thin aluminum or steel foil material, or another metal film. 
     In step B, application of the first film  16  to the first array  14  of filament bundles  11  causes a first surface  17  of the first film  16  to be arranged in close proximity to the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . As illustrated more clearly in subsequent Figures, substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent filament bundles  11  expose substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  as thin strips of the first surface  17  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 . Substantially continuous surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  that face away from the first surface  17  of the first film  16  are also exposed. 
     The method includes a step C of forming a second or “right” plurality of filament bundles  21  of twisted or untwisted high strength filaments or fibers. The second or “right” plurality of filament bundles  21  are supplied from separate creeled yarn packages  22 , as shown here, or may be supplied from a warp beam (not shown). The filaments or fibers in the second plurality of filament bundles  21  are also unidirectional, and the bundles are passed through a second or “right” comb guide  23  where the second plurality of filament bundles  21  are further parallelized and arrayed into a second or “right” array  24  formed of a single layer having a predetermined uniform number of filament bundles  21  per inch of width with adjacent filament bundles  21  each being spaced apart approximately a width or slightly less than a width of one filament bundle. 
     The method includes a step D in which the second single layer array  24  of filament bundles  21  are passed over a second or “right” film application roller or mandrel  25  where a second or “right” film  26  of thin and flexible polyethylene or other suitable material is applied to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21 . Application of the second film  26  to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21  causes a first surface  27  of the second film  26  to be arranged in close proximity to the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . As illustrated more clearly in subsequent Figures, substantially continuous spacings  28  between adjacent filament bundles  21  expose substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  as thin strips of the first surface  27  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21 . Substantially continuous surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  that face away from the first surface  27  of the second film  26  are also exposed. 
     The method includes a step E of depositing substantially continuous deposits  31  of a coupling agent  32 , including any anchoring, bonding or adhering agent, onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  that face away from the first film  16 . The coupling agent  32  is any anchoring, bonding or adhering agent of a type compatible with each of the first and second films  16  and  26  and the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the respective first and second arrays  14  and  24 . By example and without limitation, the coupling agent  32  is selected from the group of anchoring, bonding or adhering agents consisting of: an adhesive agent, and a polymeric agent. 
     For example, when the first and second films  16  and  26  are a thin and flexible polyethylene or other polymer, including thermoplastic polymers, the coupling agent  32  is optionally a polymer or polymeric agent compatible with the films  16 ,  26 . Alternatively, the coupling agent  32  is optionally an adhesive agent even when the films  16 ,  26  are a polymer material of a type compatible with a polymeric agent  32 . 
     Alternatively, when the first and second films  16  and  26  are a thin and flexible metallic film such as a thin aluminum or steel foil material, or another metal film, the coupling agent  32  is a compatible adhesive agent. 
     Step E of the method includes, substantially simultaneously with the depositing substantially continuous deposits  31  of coupling agent  32  onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , depositing substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  onto the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     When thermoset and thermoplastic resin particles, alone or in combination, are used as the filaments  11  and  21 , the high viscosity of thermoplastic polymers does not affect the disconnected application of the coupling agent  32  into the laminate structure  10 . Even at significantly increased amounts, thermoplastic prepregs of the laminate structure  10  are flexible structures. Prepregs containing thermosetting coupling agent  32  are relatively flexible and tacky prior to reaction. 
     The coupling agent  32  may contain polymeric material from polymeric powders, polymeric solutions, polymeric emulsions, chopped filaments, thermoset resin systems, and combinations thereof. Applications of these polymeric anchoring, bonding or adhering agent materials  32  may be by spray, droplets, emulsion, etc. When chopped filaments are used, heat and/or pressure can be used to consolidate the laminate structure  10 , and the chopped filaments should melt at a temperature below that of the filaments  11  and  21 . 
     The filaments  11  and  21 , pre-molded if desired, may be pre-coated with a polymeric material (preferably an elastomer) prior to being arranged in the arrays  14 ,  24  as disclosed by example and without limitation, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,846,548 and 7,211,291, which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     Any suitable elastomeric material may be used for the anchoring, bonding or adhering agent materials  32 . Representative examples of suitable elastomers of the elastomeric material have their structures, properties, and formulations together with cross-linking procedures summarized in the Encyclopedia of Polymer Science, Volume 5, “Elastomers-Synthetic” (John Wiley and Sons Inc., 1964). For example, any of the following materials may be employed: polybutadiene, polyisoprene, natural rubber, ethylene-propylene copolymers, ethylenepropylene-diene terpolymers, polysulfide polymers, polyurethane elastomers, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, polychloroprene, plasticized polyvinylchloride using dioctyl phthalate or other plasticers well known in the art, butadiene acrylonitrile elastomers, poly(isobutylene-co-isoprene), polyacrylates, polyesters, polyethers, fluoroelastomers, silicone elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers, copolymers of ethylene. Useful elastomers are block copolymers of conjugated dienes and vinyl aromatic monomers, including but not limited to, butadiene and isoproprene. Useful conjugated aromatic monomers, include but are not limited to, styrene, vinyl toluene and t-butyl styrene. Block copolymers incorporating polyisoprene may be hydrogenated to produce thermoplastic elastomers having saturated hydrocarbon elastomer segments. The polymers may be simple tri-block copolymers of the type A-B-A, multi-block copolymers of the type (AB)n(n=2 10) or radial configuration copolymers of the type R-(BA).times.(x=3 150): wherein A is a block from a polyvinyl aromatic monomer and B is a block from a conjugated diene elastomer. Many of these polymers are produced commercially by the Shell Chemical Co. and described in the bulletin “Kraton Thermoplastic Rubber”, SC-68-81. 
     Low modulus elastomeric anchoring, bonding or adhering agent materials  32  may also include fillers such as carbon black, silica, glass micro-balloons, etc., and may be extended with oils and vulcanized by sulfur, peroxide, metal oxide, or radiation cure systems using methods well known to rubber technologists of ordinary skill. Blends of different elastomeric materials may be used together or one or more elastomeric materials may be blended with one or more thermoplastics. High density, low density, and linear low density polyethylene may be cross-linked to obtain a material of appropriate properties, either alone or as blends. 
     The proportion (volume percent) of polymeric or other anchoring, bonding or adhering agent materials  32  to the filaments  11  and  21  varies according to the rigidity, shape, heat resistance, wear resistance, flammability resistance and other properties desired. Other factors that affect these properties include the spatial density of the anchoring, bonding or adhering agent materials  32 , void percentage within the arrays  14 ,  24  of the filaments  11  and  21 , and other such variables related to the placement, size, shape, positioning and composition of the anchoring, bonding or adhering agent materials  32  and arrayed filaments  11  and  21 . 
     The substantially continuous deposits  31  and  33  of an coupling agent  32  jointly anchor and maintain the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the respective first and second arrays  14  and  24  in the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  as a unitary structure. These anchors positionally fix the individual filament bundles  11  and  21  in relation to each other, yet permit the unitary ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  to bend as a whole. The total volume of the substantially continuous deposits  31  and  33  is a fraction of the fiber volume that defines volumetric ratio density of the deposits  31  and  33 . 
     The substantially continuous deposits  31  and  33  of the coupling agent  32  are not physically connected to one other, other than by the filament bundles  11  and  21 . As such, the substantially continuous deposits  31  and  33  form a discontinuous anchoring, bonding or adhering material throughout the unitary ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10 . However, as the substantially continuous deposits  31  and  33  permanently anchor relative locations of the filament bundles  11  and  21  in a fixed structure  10 . The disconnects of the filament bundles  11  and  21  between the deposits  31  and  33  permits a higher volume percent of fiber in the structure  10  than would a continuous film of the coupling agent  32 . Additionally, a robust structure is created, i.e., the deposits  31  and  33  of the coupling agent  32  bind the filament bundles  11  and  21  in a unitary structure that is easily handled without a tendency to separate or spread. 
     The discontinuous structure of the deposits  31  and  33  of coupling agent  32 , which leave major sections of the filament bundles  11  and  21  uncoated, or without any of the coupling agent  32 , are necessary to enhance bending of the resultant ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10 . Amounts of coupling agent  32  used are sufficiently small to provide for uncoated filament segments in the prepreg and resultant products, and the deposits  31  and  33  may optionally include only those amounts of the coupling agent  32  that promote areas free of the agent  32 . 
     By providing a distribution of the deposits  31  and  33 , extremely high volumes of fiber can be incorporated to form a ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  which has improved physical integrity during processing and use, such as handling and cutting the composite, and stacking unidirectional prepreg structure. The resulting laminate structure  10  maintains flexibility of the combined predominantly uncoated filament bundles  11  and  21  within the structure. Maintaining the integrity and ability to be handled, the laminate structure  10  retains its structure without yarn separation during processing and use. More than one layer of the laminate structure  10  bound with resin can be built up to form a variety of multi-layer laminates, such as 0/90, +45/−45, +30/−30, 0/60/120, 0/45/90/135, etc. These multi-layer composite laminates have been found to be resistant to impact, and more specifically resistant to ballistic impact. 
     Each section of the composite of the laminate structure  10  has a spatial distribution of the deposits  31  and  33  of coupling agent  32  which effectively hold together, and preferably bond, the filament bundles  11  and  21 , providing areas with and without the coupling agent  32 . Discontinuities between the deposits  31  and  33  of coupling agent  32  between unbonded portions of the filament bundles  11  and  21  permit flexibility of the laminate structure  10 , while areas containing the deposits  31  and  33  remain as anchors that maintain multiple filament bundles  11  and  21  within the laminate structure  10  in a fixed relationship to each other. The deposits  31  and  33  of coupling agent  32  are extremely elongated with length dimensions running with, or parallel to, the length of the filament bundles  11  and  21  and are present only in an amount sufficient to bond adjacent filament bundles  11  and  21  and to maintain structural integrity in use. Although areas with the deposits  31  and  33  of the coupling agent  32  are not as flexible as areas free of the agent  32 , the areas free of the agent  32  preferably impart flexibility to the laminate structure  10  as a whole. Consequently the laminate structure  10  can move more easily than a web where the fibers are fully encased in the coupling agent  32 . 
     Step E of depositing substantially continuous deposits  31  and  33  of coupling agent  32  is accomplished by any suitable method. By example and without limitation, the depositing substantially continuous deposits  31 ,  33  of coupling agent  32  is accomplished using an applicator  34 . For example, the depositing substantially continuous deposits  31 ,  33  of coupling agent  32  is accomplished by spraying an aerosol using a spraying applicator  34 , atomizing and spraying a liquid using a spraying applicator  34 , wiping a gel or liquid, or painting as with a brush or other mass applicator  34 . 
     The method includes a step F of interlaying the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Accordingly, the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are laid into the substantially continuous spacings or gaps  28  between the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 , and the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  14  are substantially simultaneously laid into substantially continuous spacings or gaps  18  between the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     The method includes a step G of contacting the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
     Step G of the method includes, substantially simultaneously with the contacting the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26 , contacting the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  facing away from the first surface  27  of the second film  26  with the substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     Step G of the method is optionally operated substantially simultaneously with step F of interlaying the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
     Optionally, step G of the method further includes the first and second application rollers or mandrels  15  and  25  pressing the first and second arrays  14  and  24  of fiber bundles  11  and  21  onto the first and second films  16  and  26 . By example and without limitation, the first and second application rollers or mandrels  15  and  25  are operated in a known manner to apply pressure therebetween for compressing the first and second arrays  14  and  24  of fiber bundles  11  and  21  between the first and second films  16  and  26 . Accordingly, the interlineated fiber bundles  11  and  21  are flattened and spread across the first surfaces  17  and  27  of the respective first and second films  16  and  26 , as discussed more fully herein. 
     Alternatively, step D of the method in which the second film  26  is applied to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21  is omitted. Instead, the method includes a step H in which the second film  26  is applied to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21  at a later stage after accomplishment of step F of interlaying the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 , and after accomplishment of the portion of step G of contacting the surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  with the substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 , which portion of step G of the method is optionally operated substantially simultaneously with the interlaying of step F. 
     When step D of the method is omitted, and the method includes substitution of the optional step H, the substituted step H is operated following step G. Optional step H, when present, includes passing the interlayered first and second filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24  over the second or “right” film application roller or mandrel  25  where a second or “right” film  26  of thin and flexible polyethylene or other suitable material is applied to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21 . 
     Optional step H, when present, includes contacting the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26 . 
     The method includes a step J of anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  to corresponding portions of the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
     Step J of the method includes, substantially simultaneously with the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  to corresponding portions of the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26 , anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  to corresponding portions of the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     Optionally, the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J of the method includes applying heat, applying pressure, or applying a combination thereof. For example, applying heat, applying pressure, or applying a combination thereof is particularly effective in operating the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J of the method when the first and second films  16 ,  26  are thermoplastic or other polymeric films, and the coupling agent  32  is a compatible polymeric material. By example and without limitation, step J of the method includes passing the combination of the first and second arrays  14 ,  24  of fiber bundles  11 ,  21  and the first and second films  16 ,  26  into an oven  35  to provide the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J between the first and second fiber bundles  11 ,  21  and the deposits  31 ,  33  of coupling agent  32 , as well as between the first and second films  16 ,  26  and the deposits  31 ,  33  of coupling agent  32 . 
     Alternatively, the coupling agent  32  is a polymeric latex deposited onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and onto the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16 , and subsequently bonded thereto with heat and/or pressure. The interlineated fiber bundles  11 ,  21  between the first and second films  16 ,  26  are passed into the nip between pressure rolls  36 . The interlineated fiber bundles  11 ,  21 , with the attached films  16 ,  26  may then be heated, if desired. 
     In another alternative, the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J of the method includes passing the interlineated fiber bundles  11 ,  21 , with the attached films  16 ,  26  between a pre-lamination roller  37  and a heated platen  38 . The heated platen  38  supports the fiber bundles  11 ,  21  and the films  16 ,  26  against pressure exerted by the pre-lamination roller  36 . After heating, the fiber bundles  11 ,  21  and the attached films  16 ,  26  are laminated by passing them through a pair of heated nip rolls  20 ,  21  to supply proper laminating forces. 
     The anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J of the method may also include applying heat, applying pressure, or applying a combination thereof when the coupling agent  32  is an adhesive of a type which curing thereof is promoted by heat, pressure, or a combination thereof. 
     The assembled ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  is then wound onto a take-up beam  39 . Alternatively, curing of the coupling agent  32  takes place after the interlineated fiber bundles  11 ,  21  and the attached films  16 ,  26  are wound onto the take-up beam  39 . For example, when the coupling agent  32  is an aerobic or air-curing adhesive. 
       FIG. 2  is a plan view of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  that illustrates by example and without limitation the method for making the same. This view more clearly illustrates the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent filament bundles  11  that expose the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 . This view of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  also illustrates the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  that face away from the first film  16 . Here, the interlineations of the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
       FIG. 3  is a pictorial view of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  that illustrates by example and without limitation the method for making the same. This view also more clearly illustrates the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent filament bundles  11  that expose the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 . This view of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  also illustrates the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  that face away from the first film  16 . This Figure also illustrates the substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  deposited onto the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show in the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 . 
     Also illustrated are the interlineations of the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
       FIG. 4  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates a stage in the method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10 . Here, the step A of forming the first or “left” plurality of bundles  11  of twisted or untwisted high strength filaments or fibers is already accomplished. The step B of passing the first single layer array  14  of filament bundles  11  over the first or “left” film application roller or mandrel  15  and applying the thin and flexible first or “left” film  16  is also accomplished. This Figure illustrates the first surface  17  of the first film  16  being arranged in close proximity to the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and further illustrates the arrangement of the filament bundles  11  on the first surface  17  of the first film  16  for forming the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent filament bundles  11 , whereby the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  are exposed as thin strips of the first surface  17  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 . 
     Here, also, the depositing step E of the method is accomplished, whereby the substantially continuous deposits  31  of an coupling agent  32  are deposited onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  that face away from the first film  16 . Furthermore, the substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  are deposited onto the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     As illustrated here, the depositing step E of the method may include continuous or intermittent portions  40  of the coupling agent  32  interconnecting the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  that is intentionally or inadvertently leaked or otherwise deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the adjacent substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 . When the coupling agent  32  is deposited by spraying, the interconnecting leakage portions  40  of coupling agent  32  is leaked or otherwise deposited by overspray. When the coupling agent  32  is deposited by painting or other liquid application method, the interconnecting leakage portions  40  of coupling agent  32  is leaked or otherwise deposited, for example by splash, spill, drip or trailing. Accordingly, whether intentional or inadvertent, the interconnecting leakage portions  40  of coupling agent  32  is expected to be intermittent between the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  and the adjacent substantially continuous deposits  33  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16 . By example and without limitation, the interconnecting leakage portions  40  of coupling agent  32  is intentionally applied by directing the spraying or painting applicator apparatus  34  at an appropriate slight angle to the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16 . However, even without intentionally angling the applicator apparatus  34  relative to the film surface  17 , the natural tendency of both brush bristles and spray jets is to be angularly deflected away from higher surfaces or the surfaces first encountered in a multi-surfaced object, such as the filament bundles  11  adjacent to the film surface  17 . Thus, virtually any method for applying the deposits  31 ,  33  of the coupling agent  32  is expected to result in leaking or otherwise depositing of a plurality of the interconnecting leakage portions  40  of coupling agent  32 . 
     Thereafter, the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering step J of the method includes anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering either continuous or at least intermittent portions of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  to the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16 . 
     As also illustrated here, the depositing step E of the method may intentionally or inadvertently include interconnecting continuous or intermittent leakage portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  directly between the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and portions of the adjacent exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16 . In other words, as illustrated in the first sample  42   a  the continuous or intermittent interconnecting leakage portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  may not actually connect with either of the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11 , nor with the adjacent substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  leaked or otherwise deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16 . 
     Alternatively, as illustrated in the second sample  42   b  the continuous or intermittent interconnecting leakage portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  may actually connect with the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11 . 
     Alternatively, as illustrated in the third sample  42   c  the continuous or intermittent interconnecting leakage portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  may actually connect with the adjacent substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16 . 
     Whether intentionally or inadvertently applied, the interconnecting portions  42  may be applied in the manner discussed herein above for the interconnecting portions  40  of coupling agent  32 . 
     As also illustrated here, the step C of forming a second or “right” plurality of bundles  21  of twisted or untwisted high strength filaments or fibers is also already accomplished here. The step D of passing the second single layer array  24  of filament bundles  21  over the second or “right” film application roller or mandrel  25  and applying a thin and flexible second or “right” film  26  is also accomplished. The first surface  27  of the second film  26  is illustrated as being arranged in close proximity to the filament bundles  21  of the first array  24 , and further the arrangement of the filament bundles  21  on the first surface  27  of the second film  26  is illustrated for forming the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  28  between adjacent filament bundles  21 , whereby the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  are exposed as thin strips of the first surface  27  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21 . 
     As also illustrated here, the step F of interlaying the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  is indicated by the arrows  44  and  45 . 
     Accordingly, the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering step J of the method includes anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  to corresponding portions of the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
       FIG. 5  is a cross-section view that illustrates the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . As illustrated here, the portion of step G of contacting the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  is already accomplished. Also already accomplished is the portion of step G of contacting the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  facing away from the first surface  27  of the second film  26  with the substantially continuous deposits  33  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     As also illustrated here, the contacting step G of the method may intentionally or inadvertently include interconnecting a continuous or intermittent portions  47  of the coupling agent  32  directly between the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  directly and a portion of the adjacent exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . By example and without limitation, the interconnecting portions  47  is applied by transferring a portion of the substantially continuous deposits  31  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  directly to the adjacent filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  substantially simultaneously with being laid into the gaps  18  therebetween, as indicated by the arrows  44 ,  45  in  FIG. 4 . 
     Whether intentionally or inadvertently applied, the interconnecting transfer portions  47  may be applied in the manner discussed herein above for the interconnecting portions  40  and  42  of coupling agent  32 . 
     Thereafter, the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering step J of the method includes anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering either continuous or at least intermittent portions of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  at least intermittently to the continuous or at least intermittent portions of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
     The method includes a step J of anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  to corresponding portions of the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
       FIG. 6  is a cross-section view that illustrates the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24  being compressed between the first and second films  16 ,  26 . Accordingly, the filament bundles  11 ,  21  are formed into flatter and more square or oblong shapes from the generally round or cylindrical shapes illustrated in earlier Figures. Such forming of the filament bundles  11 ,  21  into flatter and squarer shapes is accomplished, for example, in the optional stage of step G of the method wherein the first and second application rollers or mandrels  15  and  25  are operated in a known manner for applying pressure for compressing therebetween the first and second arrays  14  and  24  of fiber bundles  11  and  21  onto the first and second films  16  and  26 , as indicated by arrows  48 . Accordingly, the interlineated fiber bundles  11  and  21  are flattened and spread across the first surfaces  17  and  27  of the respective first and second films  16  and  26 . 
       FIG. 7  is a cross-section view that illustrates the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24  being compressed before the interlaying of step F wherein the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 , as indicated by the arrows  44  and  45 . After the subsequent interlaying of step F is accomplished, the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  appears approximately as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . Here, the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are anchored, bonded or otherwise adhered directly to the first surface  17  of the first film  16  by the interconnecting continuous or intermittent leakage portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  intentionally or inadvertently leaked between the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and portions of the adjacent exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the corresponding first film  16 . 
     The filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  are interlaid between the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , whereupon continuous or intermittent portions  47  of the coupling agent  32  are intentionally or inadvertently transferred directly between the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and portions of the adjacent exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . 
     After interlaying of the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24 , the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering step J is accomplished to result in the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  approximately as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . 
       FIG. 8  is a cross-section view that illustrates one alternative to the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  illustrated in  FIG. 6 . Here, the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24  are not compressed together. Rather, sufficient quantities of the coupling agent  32  are deposited in the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  and  28  between adjacent filament bundles  11  and  21  of the respective opposing first and second arrays  14  and  24 . The ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  illustrated here results when the coupling agent  32  is fixed during step J. 
       FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10  are cross-section views that illustrate respective additional alternative configurations of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10 . In each of  FIGS. 9 and 10  the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24  are flattened and laid one over the other in an overlapping or “brick” pattern with the coupling agent  32  therebetween for connecting them together. The first and second films  16  and  26  are overlaid outside the arrays  14 ,  24  of filament bundles  11 ,  21 . 
     Continuous or intermittent interconnecting portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  fix the filament bundles  11 ,  21  to the respective films  16 ,  26 . By example and without limitation, the interconnecting portions  42  of the coupling agent  32  are exuded between the filament bundles  11 ,  21  by passage between the application rollers or mandrels  15 ,  25  during application of the first and second films  16 ,  26 , which may also result in the flattening of the filament bundles  11 ,  21 . 
       FIG. 11  is a cross-section view that illustrates another additional alternative configuration of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  in which the second layered array  24  of filament bundles  21  again overlaps the first array  14  of filament bundles  11  in the overlapping or “brick” pattern with the coupling agent  32  therebetween. Additionally, here the filament bundles  21  are further parallelized and closely packed into the overlaying array  24 . The filament bundles  21  of the closely packed overlaying array  24  effectively capture and confine the deposited coupling agent  32  therebetween. The close packing of filament bundles  21  of the overlaying array  24  obviate the need for the second film  26  illustrated in previous configurations. Rather, the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  can be safely wound onto the take-up beam  39  without the coupling agent  32  contacting or coupling to an outer surface  50  of the first film  16  exposed opposite from its first surface  17  and the arrays  14 ,  24  of filament bundles  11 ,  21  coupled thereto. Accordingly, only the single first film  16  is anchored, bonded or otherwise adhered to the first array  14  of filament bundles  11 , while the second film  26  is optionally omitted. 
       FIG. 12  is a cross-section view that illustrates another additional alternative configuration of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  in which the second layered array  24  of filament bundles  21  again overlaps the first array  14  of filament bundles  11  with the coupling agent  32  therebetween. Additionally, here both filament bundles  11  and  21  are further parallelized and closely packed into the arrays  14  and  24 . The filament bundles  21  of the closely packed arrays  14  and  24  effectively capture and confine the deposited coupling agent  32  between them. The close packing of filament bundles  11  and  21  of the two arrays  14  and  24  obviate the need for either the first film  16  or the second film  26  illustrated in previous configurations. Rather, the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  can be safely wound onto the take-up beam  39  without the coupling agent  32  contacting or coupling to outer surfaces  51  and  53  of the respective filament bundles  11  and  21  of the arrays  14  and  24 . Accordingly, one or both of the first and second films  16  and  26  is optionally omitted. 
       FIG. 13  is a cross-section view that illustrates another additional alternative configuration of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  in which both filament bundles  11  and  21  are further parallelized and closely packed into the arrays  14  and  24 . However, here the filament bundles  11  and  21  of the first and second arrays  14  and  24  are substantially aligned with the coupling agent  32  therebetween. The filament bundles  21  of the closely packed arrays  14  and  24  effectively capture and confine the deposited coupling agent  32  between them. The close packing of filament bundles  11  and  21  of the two arrays  14  and  24  obviate the need for either the first film  16  or the second film  26  illustrated in previous configurations. Rather, the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  can be safely wound onto the take-up beam  39  without the coupling agent  32  contacting or coupling to the outer surfaces  51  and  53  of the respective filament bundles  11  and  21  of the arrays  14  and  24 . Accordingly, one or both of the first and second films  16  and  26  is optionally omitted. 
       FIG. 14  illustrates another exemplary method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein a plurality of the bundles  11 ,  21  of twisted or untwisted high strength filaments or fibers are unidirectional, and the bundles are passed through a comb guide  57  where the plurality of adjacent alternating filament bundles  11 ,  21  are further parallelized and arrayed into a single closely packed array  59  formed of a single layer having a predetermined uniform number of filament bundles per inch of width, for example using conventional equipment  61  and techniques well known in the industry as set forth in the prior art. 
     Substantially continuous deposits  63  of the coupling agent  32  of the type described herein are deposited onto exposed first surfaces  65  of the filament bundles  11 ,  21  using appropriate applicator equipment  34 . 
     The filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59  are passed over the first or “left” film application roller or mandrel  15  where the first or “left” film  16  of thin and flexible polyethylene or other suitable material is applied to the closely packed array  59  of filament bundles. 
     As in step B, above, application of the first film  16  to the closely packed array  59  of filament bundles causes the first surface  17  of the first film  16  to be arranged in close proximity to the filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59  with the substantially continuous deposits  63  of the coupling agent  32  deposited therebetween. Second surfaces  69  of the filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59  opposite from the first surfaces  65  thereof and facing away from the first surface  17  of the first film  16  remain exposed. 
       FIG. 15  is a cross-section view that illustrates another embodiment of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein step J of the method is optionally accomplished for anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering at least a portion of the first surfaces  65  of the filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59  to corresponding portions of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  using the coupling agent  32 . 
       FIG. 16  is a cross-section view that illustrates another embodiment of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein, in addition to the substantially continuous deposits  63  of the coupling agent  32  of the type described herein are deposited onto at least a portion of the first surfaces  65  of the filament bundles  11 ,  21 , substantially continuous deposits  71  of the coupling agent  32  are alternatively deposited onto the exposed second surfaces  69  of the filament bundles  11 ,  21  using appropriate applicator equipment or apparatus  34 . Thereafter, the filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59  are passed over the second or “right” film application roller or mandrel  25  where the second or “right”  26  of thin and flexible polyethylene or other suitable material is applied to the second surfaces  69  of the closely packed array  59  of filament bundles. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates an alternative embodiment of step E of the method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein substantially continuous deposits or “beads”  75  of the coupling agent  32  are provided in substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  77 . As more clearly illustrated in  FIG. 18 , the substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  77  include both substantially continuous deposit portions  75   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and substantially continuous deposit portions  75   b  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11 . Additionally, the substantially continuous deposits  75  of the coupling agent  32  includes substantially continuous deposit portions  75   c  of the coupling agent  32  that interconnect the deposit portions  75   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and the deposit portions  75   b  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposits  75  include: the filament bundle deposit portions  75   a , the film surface deposit portions  75   b , and the interconnect deposit portions  75   c  therebetween in a substantially continuous deposit or “bead” of the coupling agent  32  along the individual filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , or alternatively along the individual filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . The respective filament bundle deposit portions  75   a , the film surface deposit portions  75   b , and the interconnect deposit portions  75   c  of the substantially continuous deposits  75  the coupling agent  32  are substantially simultaneously deposited onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the individual filament bundles  11  of the first or “left” array  14 , onto the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions or “strips”  19  of the first surface  17  of the film  16  that show in the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 , and further interconnecting therebetween. Here, the substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  77  of the deposits  75  of the coupling agent  32  are substantially continuous meltblown serpentine “omega” patterns that are deposited using a bead-type applicator apparatus  79 . By example and without limitation, the applicator apparatus  79  for depositing the individual patterns  77  of the deposits  75  of the coupling agent  32  is a patented applicator apparatus of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,902,540, “Meltblowing Method And Apparatus” issued May 11, 1999, U.S. Pat. No. 5,882,573, “Adhesive Dispensing Nozzles For Producing Partial Spray Patterns And Method Therefor” issued Mar. 16, 1999, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,904,298, “Meltblowing Method And System” issued May 18, 1999, all to Kwok and which all teach a meltblowing method and apparatus for dispensing an adhesive, including fiberized hot melt adhesive, which are all incorporated herein by reference, which machine is available from ITW Dynatec, Hendersonville, Tenn., 37075, USA. Alternatively, the substantially continuous deposits  75  of the coupling agent  32  are substantially simultaneously deposited onto both the exposed surfaces  20  of the individual filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the film  16  in another suitable substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  77  using the same or an alternative applicator apparatus  79  such as is now or may become available at a later time. 
     Thereafter, the interlaying step F of the method is performed, wherein the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Accordingly, the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are laid into the substantially continuous spacings or gaps  28  between the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 , and the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  14  are substantially simultaneously laid into substantially continuous spacings or gaps  18  between the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     The contacting step G of the method contacts the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   a  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  with the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Substantially simultaneously therewith, the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  contact with the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   b  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 . Further substantially simultaneously therewith, the interconnect deposit portions  75   c  of the substantially continuous deposits  75  substantially simultaneously interconnect the deposit portions  75   a  and  75   b  of the coupling agent  32 . 
     If the step D of the method for applying the second film  26  to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21  is omitted, the application step H of the method may be included for applying the second film  26  to the second array  24  of filament bundles  21  at a later stage after accomplishment of the interlaying step F. 
     Regardless of how the substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  77  of the of the coupling agent  32  are applied, the deposit portions  75   a  of the substantially continuous deposits  75  of coupling agent  32  intermittently couple the individual filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  to the substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show in the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  28  between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 , and the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   b  of the coupling agent  32  intermittently couple the individual filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  to the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions  19  of the surface  17  of the first film  16  that show in the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . Furthermore, as more clearly shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , when the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  are interlaid one with the other, the substantially continuous interconnecting deposit portions  75   c  of the coupling agent  32  couple directly between the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  directly and a portion of the adjacent exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  by transferring a portion of the substantially continuous interconnecting deposit portions  75   c  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  directly to the adjacent filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  substantially simultaneously with being laid into the gaps  18  therebetween, as indicated by the arrows  44 ,  45  in  FIG. 18 . 
     The anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J of the method results in the laminate structure  10  as disclosed herein. 
       FIG. 18  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates a stage in the method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  according to the alternative embodiment of step E of the method for depositing substantially continuous deposits or “beads”  75  of the coupling agent  32 , as illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 17 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposits or “beads”  75  of the coupling agent  32  are illustrated as being applied in the substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  77  that includes deposit portions  75   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , deposit portions  75   b  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11 , and the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   c  of the coupling agent  32  that interconnect the deposit portions  75   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and the deposit portions  75   b  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16 . 
       FIG. 19  is a close-up cross-section view that illustrates the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Here, the portion of contacting step G of the method is illustrated according to the alternative embodiment of step E of the method illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 17 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   a  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  contact the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Substantially simultaneously therewith, the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  contact with the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   b  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and further substantially simultaneously therewith, the coupling agent  32  of the interconnect deposit portions  75   c  of the substantially continuous deposits  75  substantially simultaneously interconnect the substantially continuous deposit portions  75   a  and  75   b  of the coupling agent  32 . 
     Furthermore, the alternative embodiment of step E of the method illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 17  is optionally used to result in a variety of alternative configurations of the different ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10 , including the different configurations disclosed, by example and without limitation, in  FIGS. 8 through 13  herein. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates another alternative embodiment of step E of the method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein a substantially continuous deposit or “bead”  81  of the coupling agent  32  is provided in a substantially continuous random deposit pattern  83  that includes deposit portions  81   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and deposit portions  81   b  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  that show between the adjacent fiber bundles  11 . Additionally, the substantially continuous deposit  81  of the coupling agent  32  includes substantially continuous deposit portions  81   c  of the coupling agent  32  that interconnect the deposit portions  81   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and the deposit portions  81   b  on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposit  81  includes: the filament bundle deposit portions  81   a , the film surface deposit portions  81   b , and the interconnect deposit portions  81   c  in a substantially continuous deposit or “bead” of the coupling agent  32  across the first array  14  of the filament bundles  11 . The respective filament bundle deposit portions  81   a , the film surface deposit portions  81   b , and the interconnect deposit portions  81   c  of the substantially continuous deposits  81  of the coupling agent  32  are substantially simultaneously deposited onto the exposed surfaces  20  of the individual filament bundles  11  of the first or “left” array  14 , onto the substantially continuous thin lengthwise portions or “strips”  19  of the first surface  17  of the film  16  that show in the substantially uniform and continuous spacings  18  between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11 , and further interconnecting therebetween. Here, the deposit pattern  83  of the deposits  81  of the coupling agent  32  are substantially continuous patterns that are deposited across the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  using, for example, the bead-type applicator apparatus  79 . Alternatively, the substantially continuous deposit  81  of coupling agent  32  is accomplished by spraying an aerosol using a spraying applicator  34 , atomizing and spraying a liquid using a spraying applicator  34 , wiping a gel or liquid, or painting as with a brush or other mass applicator  34 . 
     The substantially continuous random deposit pattern  83  of the substantially continuous deposit  81  of coupling agent  32  is optionally formed in individual unconnected lines  85  of the substantially continuous deposits  81 . Else, the substantially continuous random deposit pattern  83  of the substantially continuous deposit  81  of coupling agent  32  is optionally formed as a substantially continuous pattern throughout the length of the laminate structure  10 . Accordingly, when the substantially continuous random deposit pattern  83  of the substantially continuous deposit  81  of coupling agent  32  is optionally formed as a substantially continuous pattern throughout at least a substantial portion of the length of the laminate structure  10 , as illustrated here by example and without limitation, joining portions  87  are formed between adjacent individual and otherwise substantially unconnected lines  85  of the substantially continuous deposits  81 . 
     The alternative embodiment of step E of the method disclosed in  FIG. 20  for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  produces substantially the laminate structure  10  disclosed in  FIG. 21 . 
       FIG. 21  is a cross-section view that illustrates the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Here, the portion of contacting step G of the method is illustrated according to the alternative embodiment of step E of the method illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 20 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposit portions  81   a  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  contact the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  29  of the first surface  27  of the second film  26  that show between adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Substantially simultaneously therewith, the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  contact with the substantially continuous deposit portions  81   b  of the coupling agent  32  deposited on the exposed substantially continuous thin lengthwise strip portions  19  of the first surface  17  of the first film  16  between the adjacent fiber bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and further substantially simultaneously therewith, the coupling agent  32  of the interconnect deposit portions  81   c  of the substantially continuous deposits  81  substantially simultaneously interconnect the substantially continuous deposit portions  81   a  and  81   b  of the coupling agent  32 . 
       FIG. 22  illustrates an alternative embodiment of step E of the method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein substantially continuous deposits or “beads”  89  of the coupling agent  32  are provided in substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  91  generally of the type disclosed herein in  FIG. 17 . However, here the substantially continuous individual deposit patterns  91  of substantially continuous deposits  89  are used for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  as disclosed by example and without limitation in  FIG. 14 . Here, the individual deposit patterns  91  of substantially continuous deposits  89  are applied to the single layer of parallelized filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  include both deposit portions  89   a  on the substantially continuous exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and deposit portions  89   b  on the substantially continuous exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Additionally, the substantially continuous deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  includes substantially continuous deposit portions  89   c  of the coupling agent  32  that interconnect the deposit portions  89   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and the deposit portions  89   b  on the exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposits  89  include: the first filament bundle deposit portions  89   a , the second filament bundle deposit portions  89   b , and the interconnect deposit portions  89   c  therebetween in a substantially continuous deposit or “bead” of the coupling agent  32  along the individual filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  and adjacent ones of the individual filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Alternatively, substantially continuous deposit or “bead”  89  of the coupling agent  32  is applied along the individual filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  and adjacent ones of the individual filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . 
     Here, the deposit patterns  91  of the deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  are substantially continuous serpentine “omega” patterns that are deposited using the bead-type applicator apparatus  79  disclosed herein or an alternative applicator apparatus  79  such as is now or may become available at a later time. 
     Alternatively, the deposit patterns  91  of the deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  are applied after the interlaying step F of the method is performed, whereby the spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are first interlaid with the spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . In the interlaying step F, the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14  are laid into the substantially continuous spacings or gaps  28  between the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 , and the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  21  of the second array  14  are substantially simultaneously laid into substantially continuous spacings or gaps  18  between the adjacent spaced apart filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 . Accordingly, the filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the first and second arrays  14 ,  24  are interlaid into a single layer of parallelized filament bundles  11 ,  21  as a closely packed array generally of the type indicated generally at reference numeral  59 . Thereafter, the deposit patterns  91  of the deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  are applied as disclosed herein. 
     After the deposit patterns  91  of the deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  are applied, the second or “right” thin film  26  is applied. Thereafter, the anchoring, bonding or otherwise adhering of step J of the method results in the laminate structure  10  as disclosed herein. 
     Furthermore, the alternative embodiment of step E of the method illustrated by example and without limitation in  FIG. 22  is optionally used to result in a variety of alternative configurations of the different ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10 , including the different configurations disclosed, by example and without limitation, in  FIG. 15  herein. Additionally, when this alternative step E is performed on both opposing first and second surfaces of the closely packed array generally of the type indicated generally at reference numeral  59 , e.g., according to the description of  FIG. 14 , both the first and second films  16  and  26  are optionally adhered to the respective first and second surfaces  65  and  69 . Accordingly, operating this alternative step E produces the resultant ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  of  FIG. 16  having the first and second films  16 ,  26  on the opposite surfaces  65 ,  69  of the closely packed array  59 . 
       FIG. 23  illustrates the resultant ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  produced by operating the alternative step E of  FIG. 22 , wherein the coupling agent  32  is limited to an agent that is curable prior to being wound onto the take-up beam  39 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the curable coupling agent  32  is a thermoplastic elastomer or thermoplastic resin adhesive that is compatible with the high strength filaments  11 ,  21 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the pressure rolls  36  are instead “chill” rolls. Such “chill” rolls  36  are generally well-known as disclosed, for example, by Mahn in U.S. Pat. No. 4,390,387, “Flocked Material Having First Thermosetting Adhesive Layer And Second Thermoplastic Adhesive Layer” issued Jun. 28, 1983, which is incorporated herein by reference. Accordingly, step J of the method is accomplished by passing through the oven  35 . The resultant ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  with the curable coupling agent  32  being now fully cured is passed around at least a portion of the chill roll  36 , such that the curable coupling agent  32  is fully cured before being wound onto take-up beam  39 . 
     The curing of the curable coupling agent  32  prior to winding the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  onto the take-up beam  39  obviates the need for either of the first or second films  16 ,  26 , which are present primarily for separating adjacent layers of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  on the take-up beam  39 . Rather, the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  can be safely wound onto the take-up beam  39  without the already cured coupling agent  32  adhering, bonding or otherwise coupling to an adjacent layer of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  on the take-up beam  39 . Therefore, except as may be desirable for some end-user applications, one or both of the first or second films  16 ,  26  are optionally omitted. 
       FIG. 24  illustrates another resultant ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  produced by operating the alternative step E of  FIG. 22 , wherein the coupling agent  32  is limited to an agent that is curable prior to being wound onto the take-up beam  39 . Furthermore, as illustrated here, the substantially continuous deposits  71  of coupling agent  32  are deposited onto the exposed second surfaces  69  of the filament bundles  11 ,  21 , as disclosed herein by example and without limitation in  FIG. 14 . When the curable coupling agent  32  is the curable thermoplastic or thermoplastic resin coupling agent, the curable coupling agent  32  is cured prior to winding the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  onto the take-up beam  39 , which obviates the need for either of the first or second films  16 ,  26 . Rather, the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  can be safely wound onto the take-up beam  39  without the already cured coupling agent  32  adhering, bonding or otherwise coupling to an adjacent layer of the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  on the take-up beam  39 . Therefore, except as may be desirable for some end-user applications, one or both of the first or second films  16 ,  26  are optionally omitted. 
       FIG. 25  illustrates another alternative embodiment of step E of the method for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  wherein a substantially continuous deposit or “bead”  93  of the coupling agent  32  is provided in a substantially continuous random deposit pattern  95  generally of the type disclosed herein in  FIG. 20 . However, here the substantially continuous individual deposit pattern  95  of the substantially continuous deposits  93  are used for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  as disclosed by example and without limitation in FIG.  14 . Here, the substantially continuous random deposit pattern  95  of substantially continuous deposits  93  are applied to the single layer of parallelized filament bundles  11 ,  21  of the closely packed array  59 . 
     Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposits  93  of the coupling agent  32  include both deposit portions  93   a  on the substantially continuous exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and deposit portions  93   b  on the substantially continuous exposed surfaces  30  of the filament bundles  21  of the second array  24 . Additionally, the substantially continuous deposits  89  of the coupling agent  32  includes substantially continuous deposit portions  93   c  of the coupling agent  32  that interconnect the deposit portions  93   a  on the exposed surfaces  20  of the filament bundles  11  of the first array  14 , and the deposit portions  93   b  on the exposed surfaces  30  of the adjacent filament bundles  21  of the second array  24  when the first and second arrays  14 ,  24  are further parallelized and arrayed into the single closely packed array  59 , as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the substantially continuous deposits  93  include: the first filament bundle deposit portions  93   a , the second filament bundle deposit portions  93   b , and the interconnect deposit portions  93   c  therebetween in a substantially continuous deposit or “bead” of the coupling agent  32  across the closely packed array  59  of alternately interlaid filament bundles  11 ,  21 . Alternatively, substantially continuous deposit or “bead”  93  of the coupling agent  32  is applied along as individual unconnected lines  97  of the substantially continuous deposits  93 . Else, the substantially continuous random deposit pattern  95  of the substantially continuous deposit  93  of coupling agent  32  is optionally formed as a substantially continuous pattern throughout at least a substantial portion of the length of the laminate structure  10 . Accordingly, when the substantially continuous random deposit pattern  95  of the substantially continuous deposit  93  of coupling agent  32  is optionally formed as a substantially continuous pattern throughout the length of the laminate structure  10 , as illustrated here by example and without limitation, joining portions  99  are formed between adjacent individual and otherwise substantially unconnected lines  97  of the substantially continuous deposits  93 . 
     The alternative embodiment of step E of the method disclosed in  FIG. 25  for making the ballistic-resistant laminate structure  10  results in substantially the laminate structure  10  disclosed in  FIGS. 23 and 24 . The alternative embodiment of step E of the method disclosed in  FIG. 25  produces substantially the laminate structure  10  disclosed in  FIGS. 15 and 16  when one or both of the first and second films are attached. 
     While the preferred and additional alternative embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the inventor makes the following claims.