Windproof waterproof breathable seamed articles

[0001] The invention relates generally to waterproof and breathable seamed products that have high durability and provide users with high flexibility and durability. The invention particularly relates to the use of hand-maneuvering skirts and foot-conforming covers.

Background of the Invention [0002] Waterproof breathable products are used for a variety of purposes, such as outdoor activities, sports activities, skiing, cycling, military operations and fire fighting activities. Seamed products, such as gloves, can be waterproof because the material of their outer layer is waterproof. Alternatively, such gloves can also be considered waterproof according to the state of the art, wherein the outer layer material is air and water permeable, and the second layer is placed on the back side of the outer layer material, which consists of a functional layer material that is waterproof and permeable to water vapor (this layer is commonly referred to as the glove insert). Some materials suitable for such functional layers include PTFE, foamed PTFE provided with hydrophilic impregnating agents and / or breathable layers, polyurethane layers or elastomers such as their copolyether ester and their laminates.

[0003] Due to the high protective requirements of these products, they are commonly composed of many layers of material that are usually connected around the perimeter of the gloves. Usually, the increased thickness of gloves is directly related to the loss of tactile sensitivity and maneuverability. Tactile sensitivity and maneuverability are traditionally improved by using thin glove designs or by coating the surface of the gloves with a sticky or adhesive material, such as a low modular polymer coating applied to the outer surface of the glove's finger and palm area. However, these coatings have drawbacks such as lack of finger feel and control when applied to gloves over 10 mm (254 μm) thick. Several attempts have been made to improve tactile sensitivity and maneuverability, but all results have been limited.

[0004] Alternative thermoplastic coating structures have also been implemented, and in them also the entire liner or seam is surrounded by a thermoplastic coating. Unfortunately, these thick polyurethane seams are stiff by nature, making them unsuitable for glove inserts. In addition, these thick polyurethane coatings practically do not breathe, which also makes them the most unwanted materials for making gloves or other clothing.

[0005] US Patent No. 5,325,541 discloses a waterproof sock coating consisting of an inner lining made of waterproof, permeable

Steam, a substantially non-stretchable material, the waterproof, vapor-permeable inner liner material being heat-sealable.

[0006] US Patent No. 5,981,019 discloses a preferred membrane composite material that consists of a porous coating of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) laminated to a substrate material.

[0007] US Patent No. 5,036,551 describes elastomeric composite materials that have a layered structure and are made of a microporous polymeric membrane, a vapor-permeable polymer and an elastomeric thermoplastic nonwoven material. Materials in the form of an elastomer composite provide barrier properties while maintaining water vapor permeability and are used in clothing and other products that are compatible with another purpose.

[0008] Although attempts have been made to create a thinner material with greater maneuverability and durability, as well as a waterproof and non-textile seamed article, none of these materials have met the needs described above.

[0009] WO 2006/057822 describes welded products that are made of non-textile materials with a microporous polymer layer and a polymer layer, especially seams connecting materials.

[0010] The invention solves the long-felt need in this field for a multi-layered, non-textile, welded structure that is capable of creating flexible products without the need for a folding or folding technique. The invention provides seamed articles that are waterproof, breathable, thin, non-textile, and which are particularly suitable for use on the inserts of gloves covering hands and providing dexterous maneuvering, or which can be used alone as hand covers. The invention has additional advantages as being resistant during assembly works in factories, allowing the work to be carried out without damage and being permanently waterproof during application.

Summary of the Invention [0011] The invention provides a seam barrier article comprising a first non-textile material having a first microporous polymer layer and a first polymer layer, a second non-textile material having a second microporous polymer layer and a polymer layer, as well as a seam joining said first non-textile material and second non-textile material, wherein the first layer of the composite microporous polymer has at least two layers of foamed PTFE. This seam has a stiffness below 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) and a strength greater than 4 pounds per linear inch (pli) (0.7 N / mm). The seamed product has surprising watertightness and abrasion resistance.

[0012] The invention further provides a seamed article comprising a first non-textile material having a first layer of microporous polymer and a first layer

- 3 thermoplastic polymer, a second non-textile material having a polymer layer and a seam connecting the first non-textile material to the second non-textile material, the seam having a stiffness below 25 g / w (0.984 g / mm) and a strength greater than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm).

[0013] The invention further provides a seamed article comprising a first non-textile material having a first microporous polymer layer and a first thermoplastic polymer layer, a second non-textile material having a second microporous polymer layer and a polymer layer and a seam connecting the first non-textile material with the second non-textile material, the first non-textile material exhibits abrasion resistance and water resistance at over 63 cycles, using the ASTM D3886 test method.

[0014] The invention further provides a glove system, comprising an outer layer material, having a side with a hand hole and an edge on the insertion side, and an insert comprising a first non-textile material, having a microporous polymer layer and a first thermoplastic polymer coating layer; a second non-textile material having a microporous polymer layer and a second layer of polymer coating, and a seam connecting the first non-textile material to the second non-textile material, the seam having a rigidity less than 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) and a strength greater than 4 pli (0, 7 N / mm), the glove insert being conveniently dimensioned so that it can be placed inside the respective outer layer.

[0015] The invention further provides a glove system comprising an outer layer material having a side with a hand hole with an edge on the hand insertion side; and an insert comprising a first non-textile material having a microporous polymer layer and a first thermoplastic polymer coating layer; a second non-textile material having a microporous polymer layer and a second layer of polymer coating, and a seam connecting the first non-textile material to the second non-textile material, the seam having a stiffness less than 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) and withstand greater than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm), and the glove insert is conveniently dimensioned so that it can be properly positioned inside the outer layer, and also the first non-textile material of the liner exhibits abrasion resistance and waterproof properties for over 300 cycles using the ASTM d3886 test method.

Brief description of the drawings [0016]

Figure 1 is a partial perspective cross-section of the upper part of the glove insert, showing the placement of the layers.

Figure 2 shows a cross-section of a thermoplastic polymer layer adhering to the microporous layer through the adhesive layer.

Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a thermoplastic polymer layer adhering to the microporous polymer layer through the adhesive layer.

Figure 4 shows a cross-section of a waterproof, welded edge formed by joining two identical non-textile materials.

Figure 5 shows a cross-section of a waterproof, welded edge formed by joining two different non-textile materials.

Figure 6 shows a cross-section of a waterproof welded edge formed by joining two non-textile materials, the seam being formed by welding a thermoplastic polymer layer with a microporous polymer layer, resulting in a layer of adhesion surface.

Figure 7 shows a hand covering system made using three main layers, the insulation layer being provided with a breathable waterproof insert that matches the outer layer of the hand covering according to the invention.

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the barrier non-textile material of the thermoplastic polymer layer adhering to the microporous composite layer through the adhesive.

Detailed Description of the Invention [0017] The invention provides a material suitable for making waterproof, breathable, welded products useful for use in the field of hand covers, glove system liners, foot covers and other clothing.

[0018] For the purposes of this application, the following terms as defined below should be regarded as meaningful, unless otherwise indicated:

"Adhering" or "adhering to each other" means that the polymer material (e.g., foamed PTFE coating) and textile material are joined together by suitable binders. Binding agents can be binder points, binder used as a continuous mesh pattern, binder used in the form of continuous lines; a continuous, breathable adhesive layer, the adhesion surface resulting from bonding by melting and pressure or any other material that provides adhesion between the desired layers.

"ASTM D3886 Test Method" - for the purposes of this patent, the ASTM D3886 Test Method refers to a method by which the omnidirectional mode with emery emery paper 0 is used as an abrasive on the first non-textile material, the first non-textile material being held in a position determined by by means of a pneumatic membrane, whereby 4-psi (276 mbar) pressure is applied to the membrane and a load of 1 pound (0.454 kg) is applied to the abrasive. For comparative results, emery 0 emery paper from Norton Abrasives Worchester, Mass., A621 Emery Grit 0 should be used; Part number to be used 662611 01290.

"Breathable" refers to materials with a water vapor permeability (MVTR) of at least about 1000 (g / (m²) (24 hours)).

"Composite" refers to a material formed of two or more parts. For example, a composite material can be formed of many layers of compounds, each of which

The layer can be connected to the other layer by means of suitable binders. The composite materials of the invention do not require any textile layer.

"Dexterity maneuvering" refers to the ability to quickly and efficiently perform difficult operations with your hands or to facilitate maneuvering speed. Gloves that allow skillful maneuvering provide the ability to perform difficult actions without having to remove gloves. "Foamed PTFE" or ePTFE is used to indicate a membrane that contains a microporous PTFE structure in which there are PTFE nodes connected to each other through PTFE fibrils. The basic structure and properties of foamed PTFE are described in a number of references, including U.S. Patent Nos. 3,953,566, 3,962,153, 4,096,227, and 4,187,390, all of which are incorporated by reference.

"Insert" refers to a seamed article that provides the user with barrier protection that protects against skin contamination from toxic and / or non-toxic fluids. The insert may provide waterproofing and / or breathability properties of the seamed product. An example of an insert is a glove layer that is inserted between the outer layer and the user's hand to provide protection for the user's hand.

"Adhesion surface layer" refers to a layer formed by joining two polymer layers. For example, in the method of the invention, the adhesive surface layer is formed by welding a thermoplastic polymer layer to a microporous polymer layer, resulting in an adhesive surface layer where heat allows the thermoplastic polymer layer to attach to the microporous polymer layer.

"Laminate" - for the purposes of this application, "Laminate" means a composite comprising a polymer layer and at least one textile layer, which layers usually adhere to each other.

"Microporous" is used to denote a continuous layer of material composed of microscopic pores. The invention preferably uses a microporous polymer membrane with a microscopic hole structure connecting the microvoids. It exhibits air permeability and thus causes or is not water vapor permeable. The microporous membrane used is usually from 5 microns to 125 microns thick, and most preferably from 5 microns to 40 microns. Useful polymers of the microporous membrane material include plastic polymers as well as elastomeric polymers. Examples of suitable polymers include polyesters, polyamide, polyolefins containing polypropylenes and polyesters, polysulfones, polyketones, polycarbonates, fluoropolymers, polyacrylates, polyurethanes, copolyethers, copolyethers and the like. Preferred polymers are polymers of plastics. The most preferred material of the microporous polymer membrane is foamed microporous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). These materials are characterized by a multitude of open, connecting microscopic gaps, high volume of gaps, high strength, softness, flexibility, stable chemical properties, high water vapor permeability and a surface that

- 6 has good contamination protection properties. U.S. Patent Nos. 3,953,566 and 4,187,390 describes a process for producing such microporous membranes from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene and are incorporated herein by reference. "Tactile sensitivity" refers to the ability to feel or touch and react to stimulate the sense of touch. For example, touch gloves provide finger feel and control.

"Thermoplastic" refers to materials that can be softened repeatedly with increasing temperature and cured by reducing the temperature. It refers to those materials which, when heated, are subjected to significant physical rather than chemical transformations, and which, at the stage of softening, can be shaped into products by molding or extrusion or by melting and pressing with other material. "Textile" is used to designate a woven, knitted or nonwoven fabric, material using synthetic fibers, natural fibers or a mixture of synthetic and natural fibers.

"Waterproof" refers to materials that have been tested for water resistance as follows: materials or composites (or uniform materials with seams or composites) are tested for water resistance using a modified Suter test device that presents a challenge in terms of low water pressure on entrance. The water circulation is forced towards the sample area with an area of ​​about 4 / d inches (10.8 cm) in diameter sealed with two rubber gaskets in the mounted system. The sample is open to atmospheric conditions and is visible to the operator. The water pressure per sample increases to approximately 1 kPa (69 mbar) from a pump connected to the water tank as indicated by a suitable instrument and adjusted by means of an in-line valve. The test sample is at an angle and the water is recycled to ensure contact of water and not air with the bottom surface of the sample. The upper surface of the sample is observed for a period of 3 minutes until any traces of water appear, the circulation of which could be forced through the sample. Liquid water visible on the surface is interpreted as leakage. A positive assessment or approval of water resistance is given if there is no visible sign of liquid water within 3 minutes. Passing this test is the term "water resistance" used in the description.

The "Total Glove Tightness Test" (WGLT) is used to determine the glove's water resistance. The entire glove leak tester is a device that uses air pressure in relation to the inside of the finished (whole) glove to detect holes in waterproof components. This test is described in U.S. Patent No. 4,776,209, incorporated by reference. The leaking air is seen as air bubbles passing through the water tank. This test is a non-destructive test. Specifically, this test is carried out with an air pressure set to 2 psig (manometer 138 mbar).

[0019] In one embodiment, the invention provides a seamed article comprising a first non-textile material, consisting of a first microporous polymer layer and a first thermoplastic polymer layer, a second non-textile material,

- 7 consisting of a second microporous polymer layer and a polymer layer, as well as a seam connecting the first non-textile material to the second non-textile material to form a product. Surprisingly, the seam shows stiffness below 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm). Stiffness below 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) is desirable to ensure good dexterity of the seamed product. Even more surprising is that the seam has a strength greater than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm). A seam strength of more than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm) is considered to ensure proper durability under operating conditions and ease of manufacture.

[0020] The first non-textile material consists of a first microporous polymer layer adhering to the first thermoplastic polymer layer. The second non-textile material comprises a second microporous polymer layer and a polymer layer. In another embodiment, the second non-textile material may contain only one polymer layer.

[0021] The first non-textile material and the second non-textile material may have some similar properties independently of each other, taking into account, but not limited to, breathability, waterproofness, abrasion resistance, and windproofness.

[0022] For example, the first non-textile material and the second non-textile material may exhibit breathability. The first non-textile material and the second non-textile material may exhibit water resistance properties. In some preferred embodiments, the first non-textile material and the second non-textile material have breathability and are waterproof. These material properties may depend in part on the materials selected for the desired applications.

[0023] In another embodiment of the invention, the first non-textile material and the second non-textile material exhibit differing properties. For example, both the first non-textile material and the second non-textile material do not exhibit breathability and / or water resistance.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the microporous polymer layers comprises foamed polytetrafluoroethylene. In yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the microporous polymer layer of the first non-textile material and the microporous polymer layer of the second non-textile material consists of foamed polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first thermoplastic polymer layer comprises thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0026] The seam joining the first non-textile material with the second non-textile material has a noticeable elasticity, except that the seam has a stiffness of less than 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm), and in addition has a greater strength than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm) ). The seam is noteworthy because it is softer and more flexible than the waterproof waterproof seams previously available.

[0027] As is generally understood by those skilled in the art, examples of suitable welding means for forming seams include, but are not limited to, pulse welding, radio frequency welding, ultrasonic welding, microwave welding, and heat welding. In a preferred embodiment, the seam is made by heat welding using a welding tool. When forming the weld as a result of welding, the first microporous polymer layer or the second microporous polymer layer acts as a release agent to prevent the layer from adhering to the welding tool during contact.

[0028] In another embodiment of the invention, the seamed products exhibit amazing abrasion resistance. For example, at least the first non-textile material may further exhibit water resistance and abrasion resistance over 63 cycles using the ASTM D3886 test method. In a preferred embodiment, at least the first non-textile material has an abrasion resistance of over 300 cycles.

[0029] Figs. 1 to 7 are shown to illustrate the invention. Fig. 1 shows a seamed article in the form of a glove insert 5 according to the invention. The glove insert 5 is shaped to include a finger portion 6 surrounding the user's fingers, a dorsal or posterior portion (not shown) that covers the back of a user's hand, a thumb portion covering a user's thumb, a palm portion covering a user's hand, a cuff portion covering a user's wrist, and hand hole 70 through which the user inserts his hand into the glove insert 5. The finger portion 6 is shown in these figures as having four separate finger coatings. It may very well be in the form of a single-finger or three-finger glove (two separate finger covers) without compromising the principle of the invention.

[0030] The glove insert 5 is formed of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20. The first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20 are connected around the desired circumference by means of suitable connecting means to form the seam 30. It is preferred that the seam is waterproof welded edge. An opening 70 is provided to allow a user's hand to be inserted into the glove insert.

[0031] The first piece of non-textile material 10 forms one side of the glove insert 5 with the first palm portion 11 of the palm or the front side of the glove insert 5, as well as the first thumb side 12 of the thumb portion 7. The second piece of non-textile material 20 forms the opposite side of the finger portion, the other side the thumb part of the thumb, as well as the other palm portion of the back side of the glove insert 5. The palm portion of the glove insert is thus formed of the first palm portion 11 of the first piece of non-textile material 10 and the second palm portion of the second piece of non-textile material 20, which are adjacent, as will be described later with reference to the following figures.

[0032] The thumb portion 7 of the glove insert 5 has a thumb tip 8, an outer edge of the thumb from the finger side 9 on the side of the thumb portion adjacent to the thumb portion and an outer edge of the thumb from the radial side 3 on the radial side of the glove insert 5. The thumb portion 7 is formed from the first thumb side 12 of the first piece of non-textile material 10 and the second thumb side of the second piece of non-textile material 20. The finger portion 6 has a finger radial side 4 on the radial side of the glove insert 5 and the elbow side of the finger 2 on the elbow side of the glove insert 5. The fork 31 is located between the thumb portion 7 and the finger portion

6. The bifurcation 31 is thus located at the point where the finger radial side 4 intersects the outer edge of the thumb from the finger side 9. The cuff part 75 (present on both the dorsal and elbow parts) of the glove insert 5 adjoins the hand entrance 70 of the glove insert 5 and has an outer edge of the cuff from the ulnar side 85 on the ulnar side of the glove insert 5.

[0033] According to Fig. 2, the first non-textile material 10 consists of a first microporous polymer layer 40 adhering to the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60. The first microporous polymer layer 40 and the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 may adhere to each other using adhesive 50. Similarly according to Fig. 3, the second non-textile material 20 consists of a second microporous polymer layer 45 adjacent to the polymer layer 80. The second microporous polymer layer 45 and the polymer coating layer may adhere to each other by means of the second binder 55. Bonding layers, including both binder 50 and second binder 55, may be applied continuously or discontinuously depending on the desired result. If a breathable product area is required, the bonding layer must be either a breathable continuous adhesive or a discontinuous adhesive. The breathable binder refers to a hydrophilic binder. The breathable hydrophilic adhesive is selected to provide high water vapor transmission and good film adhesion. Examples of breathable binders include, but are not limited to polyether polyurethanes and moisture cured polyether polyurethanes. The binder layer may additionally contain fillers as needed. The discontinuous binder may be either breathable or non-breathable. The use of a discontinuous binder layer to glue the microporous polymer layer to the polymer layer or thermoplastic polymer layers can be achieved in a number of ways, such as, but not limited to, screen printing, gravure printing and spraying, all of which are known to those skilled in the art. .

[0034] The microporous polymer layers 40 and 45 may consist of similar or different materials as shown in Figs. 2 and 3. The microporous polymer layer may contain foamed PTFE, microporous coatings made of thermoplastic polymers, microporous coatings made of thermosetting polymers and coatings microporous made of elastomeric polymers. Examples of suitable polymers include polyesters, polyamide, polyolefins containing polypropylene and polyester, polyketones, polysulfones, polycarbonates, fluoropolymers, polyacrylates, polyurethanes, copolyethers, copolyethers and the like. Foamed PTFE is a preferred microporous polymeric material. In general, the microporous polymer layer may vary in thickness.

[0035] The microporous polymer layer used according to the invention may optionally be coated with one or more additional continuous polymer layers, such as binders or oleophobic layers. In terms of breathable structures, the polymer layer used is a hydrophilic polymer. The hydrophilic layer selectively carries water by diffusion, but does not support pressure-controlled liquid or air flow. This feature is suitable for the barrier layer, as well as for products made of it, such as socks or gloves, providing good pollution control properties by acting as a barrier to all sizes of pollution. In addition, water vapor conveying the properties of the material enables comfort to the user. It is preferred that at least one of the 40 or 45 microporous polymer layers consists of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0036] The thermoplastic polymer layer 60 may comprise thermoplastic polyurethane layers, silicone layers, copolyether polyester layers, copolyether ester amide layers, individual or in combination with other suitable continuous water vapor permeable polymers. It is preferred that the thermoplastic polymer layer consists of polymer polyurethanes with continuous water vapor permeability, especially those containing oxyethylene units, as described, for example, in US Patent No. 4,533,166.

[0037] The thermoplastic polymer layer 60 may be monolithic or microporous. The specific type of polymer used should be chosen such that its bonding temperature is within the range desired for making welded seam 30, as shown in Figure 4. It is preferred that the melting point of the thermoplastic polymer is below the melting or decomposition temperature of the microporous polymer.

[0038] Thermoplastic polymers with a joining temperature between 50 ° C and 200 ° C are desirable. Thermoplastic polymers with higher bonding temperatures can be used according to the invention provided that their bonding temperature is below about 400 ° C, the temperature at which microporous membrane materials, such as foamed PTFE, begin to soften or melt. The use of a thermoplastic polymer allows the template to be heated around the desired circumference to weld pieces of template material together.

[0039] Thin layers of thermoplastic polyurethane are particularly useful because they can form flexible, soft, ductile composite layers, which in turn can create more agile and tactile gloves that contain these composites. It is desirable that the thermoplastic polymer layer has a thickness less than 2 mm (50.8 μm), and even more preferably a parameter less than 1.5 mm (38.1 μm), and in the most preferred conformation, less than or equal to 1 mil (25, 4 μm). Thin thermoplastic polyurethane coatings are available from a variety of sources known to those skilled in the art

- 11 in this field. A preferred embodiment comprises a monolithic thermoplastic polyurethane in the form of a first thermoplastic polymer layer 60.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 4, a seamed article can be made according to the invention by means of two opposing layers of the same non-textile material, so that the opposite sides of the seamed article consist of identical materials. As shown in Figure 4, the first non-textile material 10 consists of a first microporous polymer layer 40 and a first thermoplastic polymer layer 60. The first microporous polymer layer 40 and the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 may be joined by means of an adhesive 50. To simplify the illustration when showing similar components, Fig. 4 shows two layers consisting of elements 40, 50, and 60. Two identical layers of thermoplastic polymer 60 are positioned so that they are in contact with both. To this end, the two layers of thermoplastic polymer are joined by means of a weld 30 which has an edge welded waterproof using heat welding. However, any other suitable weld can be used depending on the desired application. When the invention is used in this way, using the first non-textile material and the second non-textile material consisting of identical materials, the composition and properties of the product are uniform. However, the person reading this description should understand that all described components of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20 must be in fact in the structure of the invention. Thus, it is possible to have a first microporous polymer layer 40 and a second microporous polymer layer 45 consisting of the same material. In addition, it is possible for the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 and the polymer layer to contain the same material and that the layers are joined using a bond layer 50, which can be identical to the second bond layer 55, if structural uniformity is desired throughout the product.

[0041] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the waterproof welding edge formed by joining one sheet of the composite layer shown in Fig. 2 and one sheet of the composite layer shown in Fig. 3. According to Fig. 5, the seamed article thus consists of different layers of non-textile materials. As shown below in Fig. 5, the second non-textile material consists of a second microporous polymer layer 45, which differs from that of the first microporous polymer layer 40 of the first non-textile material. In addition, the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 differs in composition from this polymer coating layer 80. A person skilled in the art may want to use different materials in the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20 depending on the intended use of the seamed article. Similarly, a person skilled in the art may choose to use different binders or methods of using binders in different areas of the product. It is important to note that while the presence of a thermoplastic polymer in the first non-textile material is required, such thermoplastic polymer need not be present in the second non-textile material. It is only required that the second non-textile material has a polymer coating layer that can,

- 12 but does not have to be a thermoplastic polymer. In addition, it is important to note that the thermoplastic polymer can be coated with both a microporous polymer layer as well as a polymer layer of material opposite to the seam 30.

[0042] According to Figure 5, different materials may be used in the polymer layers of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20. The weld may be used to bond the opposite composite layers of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20. The composite layer designated as the second non-textile material 20 can be made of foamed PTFE or another second microporous polymer layer 45, a second layer of weld 55 that can be the same or different from the weld 50 connecting the first microporous thermoplastic polymer layer 40 to layer 60. Any or all of the polymer layers 80 may be different from the materials used for layers 40, 50 and 60, respectively, in the composite layer designated as the first non-textile material 10. The specific polymer layer 80 may be selected to give certain specific properties unattainable for the first polymer layer thermoplastic 60. For example, maneuverable, durable liners can be made using one first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 to form a bond with a different adjacent layer of a second non-textile material. Thus, the polymer coating layer 80 may be selected to impart desired properties to the second non-textile material 20, while the first thermoplastic polymer layer of the first non-textile material 10 may be selected to impart other physical properties, thereby providing a seamed article that can be effectively designed to meet the needs of specific user requirements in the light of environmental or application requirements.

[0043] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the welded seam of the waterproof article. The seam is formed by joining two non-textile materials. In this case, the thermoplastic polymer layer is welded to the microporous layer, whereby a separation surface 35 is formed, where two polymer layers meet. The separation surface 35 provides strength and durability of the structure, while ensuring maneuverability. As can be understood by those skilled in the art, the seamed articles of this invention may take shape, and if desired be shaped into a clothing insert, hand or foot covering adapted to the particular application. In addition, the hand-shaped insert can be incorporated as an integral part of the glove system or can be used in autonomous applications for use in the form of a thin hand covering for dexterity.

[0044] Fig. 7 generally shows the glove system 95. The glove system according to the invention comprises an outer layer of protective material 90 and an insert 5. The insert 5 consists of a first non-textile material comprising a microporous polymer layer and a first layer of thermoplastic polymer coating; a second non-textile material comprising a microporous polymer layer and a second coating layer

- 13 polymer and a weld connecting the first non-textile material with the second non-textile material. It is preferred that the seam has a stiffness below 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) and a strength greater than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm), whereby the glove insert is conveniently sized so that it can fit into a suitably sized layer external. The glove system may further comprise an insulation layer 92. In some applications, it may be desirable to use a glove liner placed or lined within the outer layer material, the glove insert being between the glove liner and the outer layer material.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the glove system pad allows breathing. In yet another preferred embodiment, the first non-textile material of the glove system liner exhibits water resistance and abrasion resistance for more than 63 cycles using the ASTM D3886 test method. It is even more preferred that the first non-textile material of the liner exhibits water resistance and abrasion resistance for more than 300 cycles.

[0046] The glove's water resistance can be tested using the Complete Glove Leak Test described above.

[0047] The material of the outer layer is shaped to include a hand insertion hole, such as the side of the hand insertion hole with the edge of the outer material on the side of the hand insertion hole. As described above, the glove liner consists of a first non-textile material comprising a microporous polymer layer and a first thermoplastic polymer coating layer; a second non-textile material comprising a microporous polymer layer and a second layer of polymer coating and a seal connecting the first non-textile material to the second non-textile material. The seam has a stiffness below 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) and a strength greater than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm). The glove system may optionally include an insulation layer. Preferably, the outer material layer is waterproof. The glove system may also optionally include a cuff located in close proximity to the hand insertion hole located inside the outer layer, with the lower edge of the cuff and the upper edge of the cuff, the lower edge of the cuff is positioned inside the outer layer below the edge of the outer layer at a predetermined bottom length and attached to the edge , the upper edge of the cuff extends above the edge of the outer layer at a predetermined upper length; the lower edge of the cuff is attached directly to the outer layer below the edge of the outer layer. The lower edge of the cuff can be attached by adhesive to the outer layer with a waterproof weld; attached to the outer layer with a seam, which is sealed on the inner cuff with a waterproof seam sealing tape or attached in another suitable way. In the desired embodiment, the outer material may be provided with an inner lining layer. The glove insert and glove liner are located inside the outer layer material, while the glove insert is located between the glove liner and the outer layer material. In description,

- "glove system" means at least an outer layer of glove 90 and an insert 5. The glove system may also optionally include an insulation layer 92 (shown) and / or an additional inner lining (not shown). Insulation or inner liners usually contain wool or fleece textile layers to guarantee thermal advantages. As should be understood, the insulation layer 92 can be made of any material that is desired for a particular application. In addition, the glove insert 5 can be incorporated as an integral part of the glove system 95 or can be used autonomously. The glove insert consists of a first non-textile material comprising a microporous polymer layer and a first thermoplastic polymer coating layer and a second non-textile material comprising a microporous polymer layer and a second layer of polymer coating. The weld joins the first non-textile material with the second non-textile material, and the seam surprisingly has a stiffness below 25 g / inch (0.984 g / mm) and a strength greater than 4 pli (0.7 N / mm). When used in a glove system, the glove insert is determined by means of a part shaped according to the first hand, consisting of a first non-textile material 10 and a second part shaped according to the second hand, consisting of a second non-textile material 20 appropriately dimensioned relative to the shaped part first hand, first and second parts in the shape of a first hand, which are connected with a seam, to create a hand cover, they have a plurality of finger spacers, a thumb spacer, palm portion, and dorsal portion. In embodiments according to which the glove system further may include an insulating layer 92, the insulating layer is sandwiched between the user's hand and the liner of the glove when the glove is in use. When used as an integral part of the glove system, the insert is properly dimensioned so that it can be properly positioned in the appropriate outer layer of the glove. The outer layer of the glove or coating 90 may be manufactured from, but not limited to, any suitable material such as knitted, woven or non-woven fabrics, composite materials, leather or any other suitable material. The outer layer of the glove may be shaped according to any suitable pattern, such as, but not limited to, Clute CutPattern or Cut Gunn or Fourchette Pattern. According to FIGS. 1 and 7, the glove system 10 may include the following: palm portion 11, finger portions 6, thumb portion 7 or hand insertion hole 70 facing inwards from the user side. Although the glove system 5 is depicted as a conventional glove system in the sense that it comprises a single finger septum for each human finger and thumb septum, it should be understood that the knowledge of the invention can be applied to other glove systems with less than four septum, but at least one. In addition, the glove system 5 may be provided with an elastic flex area (not shown) in close proximity to the cuff portion 75 to ensure the glove system is in close contact with the user's wrist.

[0048] According to Fig. 8, a non-textile material useful for making security barrier liners is formed from a thermoplastic polymer layer 60 adjacent to

- a first microporous layer 40 in the form of a composite material bonded with adhesive 50, either in a continuous or discontinuous form. Non-textile material may be covered with one or more other non-textile materials to create a barrier product.

[0049] The microporous polymer layer 40 described above and shown in Fig. 8 can be a composite microporous polymer layer consisting of two or more microporous materials. The composite can be formed by applying different materials or by using other joining techniques. Typical composite materials for a microporous polymer layer may contain one or more of the following material layers: PTFE, foamed PTFE, microporous layers made of thermoplastic polymers, microporous coatings made of thermoset polymers and microporous coatings made of elastomeric polymers. Examples of additional suitable polymers include polyesters, polyamide, polyolefins, containing polypropylene and polyester, polysulfones, polyketones, polycarbonates, fluoropolymers, polyacrylates, polyurethanes, copolyetheramides, copolyethersides and the like. Foamed PTFE is a preferred microporous polymeric material. In general, the microporous polymer layer may vary in thickness.

[0050] While variations of the invention are apparent to a person skilled in the art, it has been calculated in particular that in certain embodiments of the welded product the first layer of the thermoplastic polymer coating may comprise thermoplastic polyurethane. The first microporous polymer layer of the first non-textile material and the microporous polymer layer of the second non-textile material may also comprise expanded polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0051] In one embodiment, the first non-textile material 10 is formed by combining a composite of multiple PTFE or foamed PTFE layers forming a microporous polymer layer 40 with a thermoplastic layer 60 using adhesive 50. The placement of composite layers of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20 can be adapted to individual applications if required. For example, when forming a hand covering for which the back side of a user's hand requires a different level of protection than his hand, the layers of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20 may be positioned so that the second non-textile material 20 is inverted by means of a polymer coating layer placed outside, away from the bonding surface of the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 of the first non-textile material 10. The only limitation is that at least one layer of thermoplastic polymer must be placed towards the covering composite layer. In each of these embodiments, a waterproof, maneuverable, durable non-textile glove liner can be made if the composite layers of the first non-textile material 10 and the second non-textile material 20 are welded around the perimeter with a waterproof and welded seam 30 as previously described.

[0052] In particular, the first thermoplastic polymer layer 60 is selected based on the barrier properties required in connection with the end use. The requirement that the seamed article comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer layer is of decisive importance for the invention. The thermoplastic polymer layer provides the ability to form a soft but sufficiently strong seam when welding to an adhesive surface. In some embodiments, more than one thermoplastic polymer layer may be present. Hand covers manufactured according to the invention are indicated for use as inserts in glove systems, hand coating systems including the outer layer, insert and liner. Hand covers can also be used as a stand-alone non-textile glove application for hand covers to meet the needs of a wide variety of applications by selecting the right materials. For example, a hand covering without any outer layer or liner may be used in the form of a room glove for cleaning made only from layers of a first non-textile material and a second non-textile material. One such example is the use of a combination of foamed PTFE and thermoplastic polyurethane made according to the knowledge of the invention.

[0053] According to Table 1 below, it has been found that the articles of the invention are flexible, thin and strong, resulting in gloves that are durable and efficient when maneuvering.

Table 1 - Comparison of seam properties

<td>measured properties seamless</td><td>Present invention</td><td>A-liner non-textile TPU (1 milical (25.4 gm) TPU coatings used)</td><td>B-2 layers non-woven / ePTFE / PU</td><td>C-3 layers non-woven / ePTFE / PU</td><td>D-pad ePTFE</td><td>E-2 layer knit / TPU laminate</td>

<td>Thickness (Mils)</td><td>5.0 (127 gm)</td><td>2.0 (50.8 μm)</td><td>14.0 (355,6Lim)</td><td>22.0 (558.8 μm)</td><td>3 8 (96,5gm)</td><td>20.5 (520.7 gm)</td>

<td>Strength (pll)</td><td>4.5 (0.788 N / mm)</td><td>0.8 (0.14 N / mm)</td><td>6.9 (1.21 N / mm)</td><td>12.6 (2.21 N / mm)</td><td>3 (0.53 N / mm)</td><td>12 (2.1 N / mm)</td>

<td>Stiffness (G / inch).</td><td>11 (0.433 g / mm)</td><td>3.8 (0,150 g / mm)</td><td>thirty (1,181 g / mm)</td><td>91 (3.583 g / mm)</td><td>11 (0.433 g / mm)</td><td>44 (1,732 g / mm)</td>

[0054] Table 1 compares the breathable non-textile insert of the present invention with (A) a polyurethane coating insert, (B) an insert with 2 layers of foamed PTFE / polyurethane / nonwoven laminate, (C), an insert with 3 layers of non-woven / foamed PTFE / polyurethane / nonwoven laminate, (D) foam insert PTFE / polyurethane made of composite bonded by welding

- 17 pressure, as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,814,122, (E) with a 2-layer knit / polyurethane laminate insert.

[0055] An additional surprising feature of the invention is the elasticity of the resulting seams. Comparison of the properties of the uniformly flat coating, including thickness, abrasion resistance and MVTR for the version of the embodiment of Example 1 with the same comparative products described in Table 1 is shown in Table 2. Comparison of these data clearly shows that the invention provides a much greater abrasion resistance than all comparative inserts tested, including those with a textile layer.

Table 2 Comparison of base layer properties

<td>measured properties of seamless</td><td>Invention</td><td>A-insert only TPU coating (1 milical (25.4 μm) TPU coating used)</td><td>B-2 layers non-woven / ePTFE / PU</td><td>C-3 layers non-woven / ePTFE / PU</td><td>D-only shell coated ePTFE</td><td>E-2 layer knit / TPU laminate</td>

<td>Thickness</td><td> 2,5</td><td> 0,8</td><td> 6,5</td><td> 12</td><td> 1,3</td><td> 11</td>

<td>(Mils)</td><td>(63,5um)</td><td>(20.32 gm)</td><td>(165 m ^)</td><td>(304 m ^)</td><td>(33,02gm)</td><td>(279,4gm)</td>

<td>MVTR (g / cm2 / 24 h)</td><td> 9900</td><td> 12000</td><td> 8400</td><td> 7000</td><td> 10600</td><td> 6400</td>

<td>attrition (Cycles)</td><td> 1750</td><td> 25</td><td> 375</td><td> 700</td><td> 63</td><td> 1000</td>

[0056] Sample A has the lowest stiffness, but insufficient seam strength and poor abrasion resistance. Similarly, sample D, as described in US Patent No. 4,814,412, has an acceptably low stiffness and slightly better seam strength, unfortunately sample D has a lower than desired abrasion resistance and seam strength. Unexpectedly, the invention provides an insert or seamed article that provides seams with low stiffness, good seam strength and breathing properties and the highest abrasion resistance.

[0057] The seamed articles of the invention may further include decorations, fasteners, glove surface treatments or separate inserts of pressure-sensitive or adhesive type material, such as, for example, a low modulus polymer coating applied to the outer surfaces of the glove finger and palm areas.

[0058] The following test methods were used to evaluate the properties and performance of this invention and comparative products:

Water resistance (initial) [0059] ASTM D751 Method Procedure B describes the test used for testing water resistance. In this test the sample was fixed, a fixed hydrostatic head 0.7 pounds / inch² (48.3 mbar) minimally applied and maintained for a minimum of 3 minutes.

The result is considered acceptable if there are no leaks after 3 minutes, where the leak is defined as the appearance of one or more drops anywhere in the area

- 18 test with a diameter of three and a half inches (8.9 cm). The side of the sample facing the outer layer should be used for testing the sample's water resistance.

Thickness [0060] The ASTM D1777 test method entitled "Standard method for testing the thickness of textile materials" was used to measure the thickness of laminate layers 10 and 20, comparative materials as well as weld seams.

Rigidity [0061] ASTM D6828 Test Method entitled 'Standard Test Method for Stiffness of Materials Using the Blade / Slit Method' was used to measure the stiffness of the weld seams shown in Table 1. This method involves laying flat material with dimensions 4 ”by 4” (10.2 cm by 10.2 cm) along the entire specified gap, and then pressing the blade against the material to force it to move through the gap. For the purposes of the weld test, this test method has been modified so that the glove seal runs along one edge of a 4 "4" (10.2 cm by 10.2 cm) sample, and the seam was placed perpendicular to the blade during the test.

[0062] For the purposes of this patent, the following test parameters were used: the gap width is maintained at 0. 25 inches (0.64 cm). The beam is 100 grams. The average of at least four individual measurements was recorded. To test the seams, a 4 "by 4" (10.2 cm by 10.2 cm) sample was obtained with a seam running along one side. The seam was placed perpendicular to the penetrating blade during the examination.

Seam strength, breaking energy, dynamic load resistance, module [0063] The ASTM D1876 test method titled "Standard Test Method for Tear Peel Test (T - Peel Test)" was used to measure the seam breaking strength shown in Table 1. Samples were cut into 6 "by 1" pieces (15.2 cm by 2.54 cm). 4 "(10.2 cm) long samples were used.

MVTR [0064] The ASTM E96 test method entitled "Test methods for the transmission of water vapor in materials" was used to measure breathing through the materials shown in Table 2. For the purposes of this patent, the following test parameters were used: water method, inverted cup (paragraph 12.4 ASTM E96-00), temperature = 70 +/- 2 degrees Fahrenheit (21 +/- 1.1 ° C); RH +50 +/- 2%, air velocity = 580 ft / min "(177 m / min), test time interval + 2 hours. For this invention, the thermoplastic side was used. The sealant used for testing was thermoplastic polyurethane with thickness (101.6 mm). Three to five individual measurements are presented for each type of material. In particular, the inverted cup method was used at a three-stream air speed of 550 + -50 FPM (168 +/- 15 m / min), measured at 2 inches (5.1 cm)

- 19 above sample. The air flow was measured at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) from any other surface and could run for 2 hours. Result weight measurements were taken only at the beginning and end of the test. The bowl was 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) in diameter and 2 inches (5.1 cm) deep.

Abrasion resistance and water resistance [0065] The ASTM D3886 test method entitled "Abrasion resistance of textile materials (inflated membrane method)" was used to measure the abrasion resistance of the materials shown in Table 2. Detailed test test parameters were such that omnidirectional mode was used together with emery sandpaper 0 as an abrasive. [Emery emery paper 0 was obtained from Norton Abrasives Worcester, MAA621 EmeryGrit: 0; No. 662611 01290.] [0066] Samples were tested by abrasion of the side of the material facing away from the body (towards the outer layer). The abrasion test was carried out in multidirectional mode using emery paper 0 as abrasive. A solid rubber membrane without electrical contact pin (ground) has been used. The membrane has a smooth surface without unevenness. The membrane was inflated to 4 = / - 0.25 psi (275.8 +/- 17 mbar). A load of 1 pound (0.454 kg) was applied to the abrasive. The test has been completed with 250 cycles or 100 double strokes per revolution. Sandpaper was changed every 125 cycles. At the end of abrasion, the samples were tested using the water permeability test method designated ASTM D751.

[0067] The pressure was obtained by inflating the membrane to a level of 4 psi (275.8 mbar). The membrane used has no contact pin. A load of 1 pound (0.454 kg) was applied to the abrasive. After a specified number of abrasion cycles, the ASTM D751 test method as described above was used to test water resistance

Maximum tensile load and burst energy [0068] The ASTM D5035 test method entitled "Standard test method for breaking strength and elongation of textile webs (" Web method ") was used to measure the strength given in Table 1. The special test used was the 1 web cut method inch (2.5 cm) with a ripper head speed of 12 inches / min (30.5 cm / min).

[0069] The following non-limiting examples are presented to further illustrate the invention:

Example 1 - Waterproof, windproof, breathable, non-textile insert [0070] A waterproof, windproof, breathable, non-textile insert was produced as follows. For example, microporous expanded PTFE with a weight of about 25 gm / m was produced² and about 40 μ thick. A layer of foamed PTFE was then applied to a 1 mil (25.4 μm) monolithic thermoplastic polyurethane coating (available from Deerfield Urethane, South Deerfield, Mass, part number PT171 OS) using a continuous layer

- 20 breathable polyurethane binder used with an average coverage ratio of 8 to 10 gm / m2. The breathable polyurethane binder was a moisture cure polyurethane-polyether binder as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,533,166.

[0071] The gravure printing process was used for lamination. The multilayer structure was then left to cure. This resulted in a product (as shown in Figure 2) with a total thickness of approximately 2.5 mils (63.5 mm) and an average MVTR of approximately 9.900 gm / 24 hr / cm². After producing the desired waterproof, windproof, breathable layer, a non-textile glove liner according to the invention was made by applying two opposite pieces of foamed PTFE / adhesive / thermoplastic polyurethane composite in the form of a hand. These two opposing composite pieces were stacked together with the thermoplastic polyurethane surfaces facing each other and the ePTFE surfaces facing outwards at the top and bottom of the stack. The heat was applied to the top of the stack by means of a heated steel matrix at a temperature of about 165 ° C for three seconds and at a pressure of about 320 kPa (22.06 bar), so as to weld together the polyurethane layers of each of the two pieces in stack. The steel matrix was configured in the shape of a hand so that the two pieces were welded together in the shape of a hand. The steel regulatory cutting blade, which was created in a slightly larger palm shape than the heated steel matrix, was used to cut two connected pieces. This glove insert was airtight during a leak test using a detector as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,776,209. The seam strength measured was about 4.5 pli (0.788 N / mm) and the seam stiffness measured was about 11 g / inch (0.433 g / mm).

[0072] The finished glove was then further subjected to the addition of the inventive glove insert to the abrasion-resistant outer layer and the inner material of the calf with the following traditional glove construction method. The insert has been inverted (swung back to the front) and the stickers have been attached to the fingertips and cuffs on the side of the insert's polyurethane coating. The stickers were then sewn in to the appropriate places on the lining of the textile glove. After attaching the liner, the insole was turned over again by liner. The patches were then attached to the fingertips and cuff of the ePTFE liner side of the insert. The outer layer of the glove was inverted, and then the adhesive was then sewn in the right places inside the outer layer. After attaching to the liner, the outer layer of the glove was inverted again through the liner and liner. The cuffs of all components were sewn together and closed, as a result of which the finished glove contained an outer layer, an insert and liner, which are integrally connected to prevent separation of layers. The finished glove was tested and still turned out to be waterproof and windproof when tested with the air leak detector described above at a pressure of about 4 pounds / inch².

Example 2 - Use of a discontinuous binder [0073] A non-textile liner layer was made as described above in Example 1, except that the breathable polyurethane polyether binder was applied discontinuously using discontinuous printing relative to the ePTFE coating. This non-textile layer was then used to finish the glove pads according to the invention using the same pad construction method as described above. These non-textile glove inserts were then mounted on the finished gloves using the same glove construction method as described above.

Example 3 - Non-breathable adhesive [0074] A non-textile coating was made according to Example 2, except that the used adhesive was non-breathable MDI based, polyether polyurethane, moisture cure as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,532,316, attached as a reference. This non-textile layer was then used to make the complete non-textile glove liners of the invention using the same insert design method as that described in Example 1 above. These non-textile glove inserts were then mounted into the finished gloves using the same glove design method that was described above in Example 1.

[0075] Although several exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that numerous modifications of the invention are possible without significantly departing from the latest knowledge and advantages described herein. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Example 4 - Non-textile insert resistant to chemicals and biological agents.

[0076] The non-textile insert was made in accordance with Figs. 4 and 8. For example, a coating consisting of three layers was used comprising a first microporous foamed PTFE coating / a non-porous PTFE coating / a second microporous foamed PTFE coating forming a composite microporous layer (see Fig. 8). A three-layer composite coating with a thickness of about 20 μ was produced. Then, the three-layer PTFE coating was attached to a 1 mil (25 μ) thick thermoplastic polyurethane monolithic coating (available from Deerfield Urethane, South Deerfield, MA, PT1710S part number PT1710S) using a discontinuous layer of polyurethane binder applied in a discontinuous way due to the intaglio printing on ePTFE coating. The polyurethane binder was a moisture cure polyurethane-polyether binder as described, for example, in US Patent No. 4,533,166.

[0077] The gravure printing process was used for lamination. The multilayer structure was then left to cure. It was used to manufacture the product (as shown in Figure 4) with a total thickness of about 75 μ. After

By making the desired non-textile layer, the non-textile glove liner of the invention was produced by superimposing two opposing pieces of hand-shaped material together. These two opposing composite pieces were stacked together with the thermoplastic polyurethane surfaces facing each other, and the PTFE surfaces were directed outside the stack at the top and bottom. The heat was fed to the top of the stack by means of a heated steel matrix at a temperature of about 165 ° C for three seconds and at a pressure of about 320 kPa (22.06 bar), so as to heat the polyurethane coating layers of each of the two pieces in the stack. The steel matrix was configured in the shape of a hand so that the two pieces were welded together in the shape of a hand. The steel cutting blade, which was formed in a slightly larger palm shape than the heated steel matrix, was used to cut two connected pieces. This glove insert was airtight during a leak test using a detector as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,776,209. The seal strength measured was about 4.0 pli (0.7 N / mm) and the seal rigidity measured was about 24, 7 g / inch (0.972 g / mm). The composite material had abrasion resistance for more than 500 cycles using the ASTM D3886 test method.

[0078] The permeation rate of acrylonitrile through the material described above was tested according to the procedure described in NFPA 1994 edition (2007).

[0079] The glove insert sample has passed the standard test defined in the NEPA 1994 Class 3 Standard on Rescue Teams for CBRN Terrorism Accidents 2007 Edition, for (60 min), P = 0.077 mg / cm2 / min.

[0080] The finished glove insert was used in the modular glove system. For example, a user puts on a glove with a cotton knit liner, then puts on and puts on the glove liner according to the example, and then puts on and puts on the outer layer of the glove. The finished glove system was then tested using a total glove leak test at a pressure of about 4 pounds / inch² and proved to be waterproof.

[0081] Although several embodiments of the invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that numerous modifications are possible without significantly departing from the new disclosure and advantages that are described herein. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Prepared and verified

Gra vein Palka Patent Attorney