Apple, Inc. v. Motorola, Inc. et al

Filing 107

Declaration of Winslow B. Taub filed by Plaintiffs Apple, Inc., Next Softward, Inc. re: 90 Motion Requesting Claims Construction by Plaintiffs. (Attachments: # 1 Ex. A, '486 Inf. Chart, # 2 Ex. B, '354 file history excerpt, # 3 Ex. C, '354 file history excerpt, # 4 Ex. D, Spielman report excerpts, # 5 Ex. E, '983 file history excerpts, # 6 Ex. F, '983 file history excerpts, # 7 Ex. G, '337 Inf. Chart, # 8 Ex. H, '002 Inf. Chart, # 9 Ex. I, '002 file history excerpt, # 10 Ex. J, '002 file history excerpt, # 11 Ex. K, '002 file history excerpt, # 12 Ex. L, dictionary definitions, # 13 Ex. N, JPS63-167588 cert. trans., # 14 Ex. O, appl. 08/050952 file history excerpt, # 15 Ex. P, invalidity conten. excerpt, # 16 Ex. Q, 6,371,977, # 17 Ex. R, 5,474,831) (Haslam, Robert) Modified on 7/18/2011 (llj).

EXHIBIT Q

111111

1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111
US006371977Bl

(54)

United States Patent

(10)

Bumbarger et ai.

(12)

(45)

5,043,209
5,087,513
5,104,725
5,350,370
5,389,442
5,413,747
5,419,955
5,466,513
5,539,928
5,640,718
5,681,300
5,724,673
5,755,110
5,819,316
5,885,912
5,906,952
5,920,905
5,933,865
5,939,339

PROTECTIVE MULTI-IAYERED LIQUID
RETAINING COMPOSITE

(75)

Inventors: Scott A. Bumbarger; Thomas H.
Bumbarger, both of Decatur, AL (US)

(73)

Assignee: Aquatex Industries, Inc., Decatur, AL
(US)

( *)

Notice:

Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U.S.c. 154(b) by 0 days.

(21)

Appl. No.: 09/408,861

(22)

Filed:

Sep. 30, 1999
Related U.S. Application Data

(63)

Continuation-in-part of application No. 09/275,194, filed on
Mar. 23, 1999, which is a continuation-in-part of application
No. 08/947,184, filed on Oct. 8, 1997, now Pat. No. 5,885,

Patent No.:
US 6,371,977 Bl
Date of Patent:
Apr. 16, 2002

A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A

8/1991 Boisse et al.

* 2/1992 Kim ........................... 428/283

*

*

*

4/1992
9/1994
2/1995
5/1995
5/1995
11/1995
7/1996
6/1997
10/1997
3/1998
5/1998
10/1998
3/1999
5/1999
7/1999
8/1999
8/1999

Broaddus
Jackson et al.
Arroyo et al.
Akers et al.
Ehrhardt et al.
Wanek et al. ............... 428/218
Aldridge
Aldridge
Ahr et al.
Aldridge
Silvas ....................... 62/259.3
Aldridge
Bumbarger
Everaere et al.
Aldridge
Aldridge .......................... 2/81
Delmore et al.

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
EP

0436 514

1/1991

912.

(51)
(52)
(58)

* cited by examiner

Int. CI? .............................. A61F 7/00; A41D 1/04
U.S. CI. ......................... 607/108; 607/112; 607/96;
2/102; 428/372
Field of Search ........................... 607/96, 108-112,
607/114; 604/358,361; 602/41,56

Primary Examiner-Roy Gibson
(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Waddey & Patterson, PC;
Richard S. Myers, lr.

(56)

References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
3,670,731
4,252,119
4,304,817
4,433,024
4,562,114
4,818,599
4,855,179
4,873,143
4,897,297
4,957,795

A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A

6/1972 Harmon

* 2/1981 Coates
*
*
*

12/1981
2/1984
12/1985
4/1989
8/1989
10/1989
1/1990
9/1990

Frankosky
Eian
Sawanishi et al. .......... 428/372
Marcus
Bourland et al.
Tanaka ....................... 428/373
Zafiroglu .................... 428/102
Riedel

(57)

ABSTRACT

A multi-layered composite comprising a protective layer, a
retaining layer, a conductive layer and a filler layer intermediate the retainer and conductive layers. The filler layer is
impregnated with liquid absorbent particles and/or fibers. An
optional protective layer having specific characteristic for
protection against extreme temperatures, physical impacts
and the like is specifically disclosed for use in combination
with the retainer, filler and conductive layers. The protective
layer provides additional protection of the person from
catastrophic events such as exposure of a person to fire
and/or severe impact such as may be caused by gunfire.
35 Claims, 10 Drawing Sheets

RETAINER LAYER (12)

PROTECTIVE COATING

(13)

BATIING

(15)

LAYER (14)
ABSORBENT PARTICLES (17)
~~~..-CONDUCTOR LAYER (16)

WATERPROOF COATING (18)

d

•
rJl
•
~

~
.....
.....

RETAINER LAYER (12)

~

=

PROTECTIVE COATING (13)
FIBER FILL BAITING (15)
FILLER

LAYER (14)

ABSORBENT PARTICLES (17)

>

't:I

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0'1

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C
N

'JJ.

CONDUCTOR LAYER (16)

=-

~

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WATERPROOF COATING (18)

e
rJ'l

FIG. 1

0'1
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PROTECTIVE (FIRE RESISTANT) LAYER (20)

~

=

LAYER (14)

CONDUCTOR LAYER

.J.

~

~
.....
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RETAINER LAYER (12)
FILLER

•
rJl
•

(16)

>

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---WATERPROOF COATING (1 a)

N
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=-

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(22) PROTECTIVE (BALLISTIC)

N

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(24)

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(25)
RETAINER LAYER (12)

COND:~~: LA~;:R(l(~;) -

~pfP~'m~

e
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WATERPROOF COATING

FIG. 3

\0
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I--"

d

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=

RETAINER LAYER (12)
FILLER

/10

LAYER (14)

>

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'JJ.

=-

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CONDUCTOR LAYER (16)
WATERPROOF COATING (18)

o
....,

ABSORBENT PARTICLES (17)

'""'
C"

FIBER FILL BATTING (15)

FIG. 4

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0'1
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u.s. Patent

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Sheet 9 of 10

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PROTECTIVE (22)
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LAYER

40

42

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FIG. 10

27

PROTECTIVE(20}(FIRE RESISTANT)
LAYER

FIG. 11

u.s. Patent

Apr. 16, 2002

US 6,371,977 Bl

Sheet 10 of 10

(20) PROTECTIVE
(FIRE RESISTANT)

LAYER

FIG. 12

US 6,371,977 B1
1

2

PROTECTIVE MULTI-LAYERED LIQUID
RETAINING COMPOSITE

invention further relates to methods of using the fibrous
combination and composite to heat or cool a human.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED
APPLICATIONS

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings,
which forms a part of the specification of the present
This application is a continuation-in-part application of
invention.
Ser. No. 09/275,194, A PROTECTIVE MULTI-LAYERED
FIG. 1: a perspective view of one embodiment of a
LIQUID RETAINING COMPOSITE filed Mar. 23, 1999 by
multi-layered composite wherein sections of discrete layers
Bumbarger et aI., which is a continuation-in-part of patent 10
and coatings are illustrated.
application Ser. No. 08/947,184 filed Oct. 8, 1997, now U.S.
FIG. 2: a sectional elevation of an embodiment of a
Pat. No. 5,885,912, issued Mar. 23, 1999, both of which are
multi-layered composite wherein a fire resistant layer is
incorporated herein by reference.
included as a part of the composite.
FIG. 3: a sectional elevation of the composite of FIG. 1
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
15 wherein a ballistic layer is included as a part thereof.
This invention relates generally to fluid retammg
FIG. 4: a sectional view of a composite prior to soaking
materials, and particularly to a fibrous polymeric blend and
wherein the layers thereof have been attached to one another
a multi-layered composite material comprising the fibrous
so as to form quilted pockets.
blend suitable for fabrication of a wide variety of items such
FIG. 5: a perspective view of a composite wherein the
as protective garments, blankets, compresses, etc. A filler 20
layers thereof have been attached to one another so as to
layer impregnated with liquid absorbent particles, fibers, or
form quilted pockets and wherein the pockets are illustrated
blends thereof is positioned between layers of selected
in an expanded condition as a result of soaking the comfabrics. The composite, after being soaked in a liquid,
posite.
provides covering which protects and/or provides comfort.
FIG. 6: a sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 8,
The present invention also protects from extreme heat or 25
wherein, for illustration purposes only, the filler layer has
cold as well as from physical injury resulting from impact.
been omitted from the interior of one pocket to permit
Additionally, the invention may be utilized to control body
inclusion of arrows Fi which signify an internal pressure
temperature of a person by providing warmth or cooling, as
being exerted by the filler layer outwardly against the
may be needed.
30 retainer layer and the conductor layer.
FIG. 7: a sectional view as in FIG. 6, wherein the quilted
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
pockets are attached to a ballistic layer.
Many inventions appear in the prior art that relate to
FIG. 8: a sectional view as in FIG. 7 that illustrates a
composites and/or garments for the comfort and/or protecdeformation of the quilted pockets as caused by the impact
tion of a person's body. These inventions relate to heating or
of a bullet upon a ballistic layer and also, by arrows Fii,
cooling of a person's body; keeping the body wet or dry; 35
illustrates the increase of pressure within the pockets as a
protection of the body from conditions of extreme heat or
result of the impact from the bullet, and the resultant
cold, as well as protection of the body from impact from
expulsion of material through the retainer layer of the
high speed objects. The use of liquid absorbent composites
composite.
has been utilized in many ways to aid in the effectiveness of
FIG. 9: an enlarged sectional view of a pocket having
such composites and garments. Examples of U.S. patents 40
been deformed to the extent that polymer material from the
relating in one way or another to this art are as follows: U.S.
filler layer have been forced outwardly through the retainer
Pat. Nos. 2,855,758; 3,429,138; 3,670,731; 3,971,373;
layer.
4,105,033; 4,133,055; 4,235,227; 4,429,001; 4,556,055;
FIG. 10: a composite garment illustrating a chest and back
5,113,666; 5,289,695; 5,328,759; 5,419,955; and 5,480,410;
45 protective layer for temporary attachment to a retainer layer
each of which are incorporated herein by reference.
to provide personal protection against projectiles such as
The grandparent case to this application (U.S. Pat. No.
bullets.
5,885,912), disclosed certain types of garments constructed
FIG. 11: a protective layer in the form of a shin guard that
in accordance with the embodiments of composite materials
disclosed therein. More specifically, pockets or quilting 50 is attached to a retainer layer of a composite garment.
FIG. 12: a protective layer of a composite wherein a layer
having seams were sewn into a garment, and were filled with
is adapted for temporary attachment to the remainder of the
a combination of batting and microcrystals of hydrophilic
composite, for protection of the forward portion of the leg
polymers.
and foot of a person.
The parent case to this application disclosed a composite
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
material having an additional embodiment comprising a 55
INVENTION
hydrophilic polymeric fiber and batting or fiberfill material.
5

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention provides combination of fiberfill batting
material and superabsorbant hydrophilic polymeric
particles, fibers, or blends thereof. Additionally, this invention provides a multi-layered, liquid retaining composite
material having on one side a conductive layer provided
with a coating impervious to fluids while allowing free
passage of gasses therethrough. A filler layer having superabsorb ant properties is disposed adjacent this conductive
layer, with a retainer layer contacting the filler layer. This

60

65

The present invention addresses thermal and impact
protection, as well as certain medical conditions, by providing unique and versatile blends of superabsorbant polymeric
particles, fibers, or blends thereof. This blend may be used
in connection with another aspect of the present invention,
a multi-layered composite material from which protective
garments, compresses, blankets, etc. may be constructed.
The composite is also well suited for fabrication of protective items for cooling or heating the body and for protecting
the body from intense heat or cold, as well as from physical
injury.

US 6,371,977 B1

3

4

Thus, another embodiment of the present invention is a
approximately 2.5 to 3 times their weight in water in a
method of protecting the human body from heat or cold
manner similar to the polymeric particles discussed herein.
As discussed below, a preferred fiber is a polyacrylonitrile/
comprising applying the polymeric blend of the present
invention to a human preferably by means of one of the
polyacrylate hydrophilic fiber similar to a LANSEAL-Fgarments discussed above. Furthermore, another embodi- 5 type material. The hydrophilic fiber of the present invention
may also be one of the superabsorbent fibers disclosed in
ment is providing a method of heating or cooling the body
by applying the polymeric blend disclosed herein.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,350,370, incorporated herein by reference.
Typically these fibers will have diameters ranging from
Additionally, garments made from the multi-layered comabout 10 to 50 microns and lengths ranging from about 3 to
posite are extremely effective for use by firemen, law
enforcement officers, military personnel and persons such as 10 60 millimeters. Their absorbency will typically range
between about 10 and about 40 grams per gram of superfoundry or bakery workers who are exposed for long periods
absorbent under a load of 0.5 pounds per square inch (3500
of time to high temperatures. The garments, particularly
pascals) using 0.9% by weight saline solution. Commerblankets, may also be effective for treating persons that have
cially available superabsorbent fibers include Allied
been exposed to extremely low temperatures and are suffering from hypothermia. Conversely, where a person is 15 Colloids/Courtalds FSARTM. 101 and 111; ARCO FIBERSORB.RTM. from Arco Corporation of Philadelphia, Pa.;
suffering from a high fever, such a blanket soaked in a cold
and TOYO BOSEKI KK Lanseal from Toyo Boseki KK of
liquid provides means for emergency treatment of fever. In
Osaka, Japan.
this use, a liquid more volatile than water, such as alcohol,
Additionally, the fibers of the present invention may be a
may be used to more effectively promote cooling. More
significantly, such blankets may also provide protection 20 superabsorbant fiber of U.S. Pat. No. 5,906,952, incorporated herein by reference. Thus, the hydrophilic fibers of the
from fire and impact from projectiles or projectile-like
present invention may be a cross-linked acrylate copolymer,
objects. Additionally, garments and blankets fabricated from
partially neutralized to the sodium salt (according to U.S.
the composite material of the invention may be used to
Pat. Nos. 5,413,747 and 5,466,731) and available in fiber
reduce thermal signatures for military operations. Catastrophes such as windstorms, fire, and war often occur wherein 25 form under the trade name OASIS from Technical Absorbents Limited of Grimsby, United Kingdom; or olefin/alkyl
people are provided some warning but time does not permit
carboxylate co-polymer, partially neutralized to the sodium
evacuation of bed ridden patients from hospitals or homes
salt (according to E.P. 0 436 514 81) and available in fiber
for the elderly. Liquid-soaked blankets fabricated from the
form under the trade name CAMELOT from Camelot Super
composite of the present invention will provide effective
protection against burns or impact injuries for such persons. 30 Absorbents Ltd. of Calgary, Canada). The superabsorbent
fibers of U.S. Pat. No. '952 are preferably less than 10 denier
In general terms, the invention includes a basic configu(optimally 3-10 denier) with a cut length of 30-65 milliration of a multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite matemeters (optimally 50 mm). Denier is the unit weight of a
rial comprising of:
fiber expressed as the weight in grams of a 9,000 meter
a conductive layer which is adapted for placement in close 35
length.
proximity to, or indirect contact with the body of the
Finally, in another embodiment of the present invention,
wearer;
the hydrophilic fibers of the present invention may be the
a filler layer impregnated a fiberfill batting material and
high-speed absorbent fibrous gelling materials disclosed in
with liquid absorbent particles, fibers, or a combination
U.S. Pat. No. 5,681,300, incorporated herein by reference.
of both;
40 Such fibers (though not necessarily high-speed fibrous
a retainer layer for retention of the filler layer between the
absorbent gelling materials) are discussed more fully in U.S.
conductive layer and the retention layer; and, if needed,
Pat. No. 4,855,179, issued Aug. 8, 1989, to Bourland, et al.
The term "fibrous absorbent gelling materials", as used
an outside protective layer attached to, or placed adjacent
to, the outermost surface of the retention layer.
herein, is intended to include absorbent gelling materials in
With respect to the liquid absorbent fibers, the blend is a 45 the form of fibers that are comprised entirely of absorbent
combination of a superabsorbant polymeric fiber and fiberfill
gelling material and bi-component fibers that are comprised
or batting. The particular fiberfill is not known to be critical.
at least partially of other materials which have their surfaces
That is, any commercial fiberfill may be used as long as it
coated with absorbent gelling materials. Suitable fibrous
does not adversely affect the performance of the end comabsorbent gelling materials include an acrylic fibrous mateposite. Accordingly, when the end composite is to be used as 50 rial available under the trade name Lanseal-F, a preferred
embodiment of the present invention, and a carboxymethor part of a fire retardant garment, the fiberfill or batting is
chosen accordingly. In such a case, the fiberfill is typically
ylcellulose fibrous material available under the trade name
comprised of a flame and heat resistant material such as
Aqualon C from Hercules, Inc. Suitable high speed fibrous
woven aramid and/or polybenzamidazole ("PBI") fibers.
absorbent gelling materials are known as FIBERS ORB
That is, the fiberfill is selected from a group consisting of an 55 SA7000 or SA7200 formerly manufactured by Arco Chemiaramid polymer fabric material, as blend of aramid polymer
cal Company of Newton Square, Pa.
fabric materials, a polybenzamidazole material, and a blend
In a preferred embodiment, the fibers of the present
invention are a bi-component fibers of the sheath-core type
of aramid polymer fabric and polybenzamidazole materials.
For other non-flame retardant applications, commercial
with the outer layer being made of cross-linked acrylate
fiberfill such as DuPont DACRON® available from DuPont, 60 copolymer, partially neutralized to the ammonium salt and
or polyester fiberfill products from Consolidated Textiles,
the inner layer being made of polyacrylonitrile. Such fibers
Inc. of Charlotte, N.C. Additionally, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,104,
are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,562,114 incorporated herein
725; 4,304,817; and 4,818,599; all of which hare incorpoby reference.
rated by reference, disclose fiberfill fibers and blends suitThe fibers of the preferred embodiment of the present
able for certain applications of the present invention.
65 invention are thus water-absorbing acrylic fibers which have
Regarding the extruded hydrophilic fiber discussed above,
a stable water-absorbing ability that will not be readily
it is preferable that the hydrophilic fibers absorb at least
lowered by heat treatment, etc. and which are excellent in

US 6,371,977 B1

5

6

physical properties such as strength and elongation and in
alkali metal. The particle diameter of the resin is preferably
practical properties such as color fastness, spinnability, etc.
not larger than 0.5 microns at absolute dryness, and the
The water-absorbing fibers of this embodiment are comparticles of the water-absorbing resin are present at least in
the outer layer of the fibers having carboxyl groups wherein
posed of not less than 90 weight % of polymer of acrylonitrile (hereinafter abbreviated as AN) and less than 10 weight 5 X is H. The particles of the water-absorbing resin present in
% of a water-absorbing resin containing carboxyl groups
the inner layer having the carboxyl groups wherein X=NH 4
(represented by -COOX wherein X is H, NH4 or an
or alkali metal are present in an amount sufficient to render
the fiber water-absorbing, a cross-section of the fibers conalkali-metal) and having a degree of water swellability of
10-300 cc/g, the particle diameter of which resin is not
taining not less than 5 pores no smaller than 0.2 microns in
larger than 0.5 microns at absolute dryness, the carboxyl 10 their maximum diameter and the fibers having a watergroups of the water-absorbing resin present at least in the
holding ratio not lower than 20%. The fibers having been
outer layer of the fibers being acid type (-COOH), the inner
obtained by wet-spinning a spinning solution composed of
layer of the fibers having pores not smaller than 0.2 microns
an acrylonitrile polymer the said water-absorbing resin
in their largest diameter, and the water-holding ratio of said
particles, water-washing the resulting fibers, acid treating
15 the fibers at a pH not higher than 4, subjecting the fibers to
fibers being not less than 20%.
The fibers of this embodiment are made according to the
heat-stretching treatment and dry-compacting treatment, folprocedures set forth in U.S. Pat. No. '114. Regarding the
lowed by wet-heat relaxing treatment at a temperature not
lower than 110° C. and then drying the fibers at 105°-170°
above described AN polymers of the present invention, any
of those used in the production of acrylic fibers known
c., the water-absorbing resin being present at 0.5 to 7 wt. %.
heretofore may be used, and no limitation is placed on the 20
Preferably, the hydrophilic polymeric fiber is blended
with the fiberfill in a range of from about 15% to 75% with
polymer. However, it is preferable to use a copolymer of not
less than 80 weight %, preferably not less than 90 weight %,
the fiberfill. The blend may be varied depending on the end
use of the composite. For instance, a low about of polymeric
of AN and the remainder of another vinyl monomer, from a
viewpoint of fiber physical properties, dye ability, etc. Also,
fiber would result in a light composite that may be used for,
any water-absorbing resin may be employed as long as they 25 for example, a shirt. A high amount of fiber would result in
contain carboxyl groups (represented by -COOX wherein
a heavy composite that may be used for, for example, a
fireman's suit. Furthermore, the batting can be thickened
X is H, NH4 or an alkali-metal) in an amount of preferably
not less than 1.5 m mo1!g, more preferably not less than 3.0
depending on the use of the end product. For example, a
batting with a thickness of l.1t6 of an inch (before quilting)
m mo1!g, have a degree of water-swell ability of 10-300 cc/g,
preferably 20-150 cc/g and a particle diameter not larger 30 may be used as a shirt. A batting with a thickness of over an
than 0.5 microns, preferably not larger than 0.2 microns, and
inch (before quilting), for example, may be used in conare insoluble in water and AN polymer solvents.
junction with a bulletproof vest.
One of the advantages of the combination of the hydroWhen a cross-linked AN copolymer having a particle
diameter not larger than 0.5 microns, preferably not larger
philic polymers and the fiberfill material is that the blend
than 0.2 microns, which is composed of preferably not less 35 both promotes evaporation qualities and provides a means to
than 50 weight %, more preferably not less than 70 weight
hold cool or hold hot. That is, the blend retains coolness or
%, of AN, based on the total amount of the monomers
warmth when chilled or heated. Hydrophilic blends of the
composing the polymer, and definite amounts of a crosslinkpresent invention allow certain composites to be microing monomer and another vinyl monomer copolymerizable
waved or refrigerated. In such a use, the batting helps act as
with AN, or an aqueous dispersion of such a crosslinked AN 40 an insulator to help maintain the desired temperature.
With respect to the liquid retaining composite material,
copolymer, is reacted, in the usual way, with an alkaline
the conductive layer may typically be formed of a watersubstance so as to introduce carboxyl groups into said
copolymer, it is possible to produce, in an industrially
resistant material that allows for moisture transmission. The
advantageous manner, a resin having a degree of waterfiller layer may be formed of a fiberfill batting impregnated
swellability of 10-300 cc/g, preferably 20-150 cc/g or an 45 with liquid absorbent particles or a fibrous blend of fiberfill
aqueous dispersion of said resin.
and superabsorptive. These particles are typically of the
The water-absorbing acrylic fibers according to this
super-absorbent polymer type. The retainer layer is typically
embodiment produced in the above way should contain
a fabric having a porosity which permits the passage of a
preferably not less than 5 pores having longer diameter not
liquid, such as water, but which is capable of retention of dry
shorter than 0.2 microns in the fiber inner layer, and have a 50 absorbent particles. The optional protective layer is typically
water-holding ratio not less than 20%, preferably not less
configured to be fire and/or impact resistant.
When an application of the composite relates to protection
than 25%.
of one's body from high temperatures, the multi-layered
In addition, the fibers according to this embodiment have
a decrease in the water-holding ratio, after dry-heat treatcomposite is soaked in a liquid, such as water, until the
ment at 120° C. for one hour, of not more than 10%, 55 polymer particles and/or fibers reach the desired degree of
preferably not more than 5%, so that in supplementary
saturation, typically a point equal to 50% to 90% of total
processing steps or in practical use, there is no substantial
saturation depending on the particular application. This
lowering in the water-absorbing capacity.
range of saturation requires submersion in water for a period
In summary, water-absorbing acrylic fibers the preferred
of about 2 to 5 minutes. When the blended composite
embodiment preferably have an outer and an inner layer and 60 material is used for impact protection, saturation degree may
being composed of not less than 90 weight % of an acrybe as high as 100%. Where emergency situations require,
lonitrile polymer and having dispersed therein less than 10
provisions may be made for storage of garments, or other
weight % of water-absorbing resin particles containing
items fabricated from the composite, in devices which
accelerate the required saturation. Such devices may include
carboxyl groups, represented by -COOX wherein X is H,
NH4 or an alkali metal. The resin preferably has substan- 65 pressure vessels or tanks in which the temperature of the
tially no water-swellability when X is H and has a degree of
liquid is held at a temperature most conducive to rapid
absorption by the polymer being used. If it is anticipated that
water-swellability of 10-300 cc/g when X is NH4 or an

US 6,371,977 B1

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sufficient time for soaking may not be available, the comenergy created by the impact. As the saturated polymer is
posite may also be stored in a pre-soaked condition. As will
compressed and forced through the pores of the material, its
be more fully understood hereinafter, optimum saturation
structural integrity is rapidly transformed from a gelatin-like
periods of the absorbent particles and/or fibers will be
substance to a nearly liquefied emulsion. This rapid strucdetermined by the intended use, as well as the characteristics 5 tural transformation requires the application of considerable
and quality of the composite.
force. As will become apparent, the application of energy
For some applications, the multi-layered composite may
from an impact will be more effectively absorbed if the force
be configured as a fiat sheet. However, interconnection of
of the impact is distributed over a number of pockets. This
the various layers by quilting seams provides more effective
distribution of impact force is accomplished by an optional
results for many uses, particularly with respect to impact
10 outer protective layer that is fabricated having rigidity
protection. This quilting process forms pockets for retention
sufficient to effectively distribute the force in accordance
of the absorbent particles and/or fibers, as will be further
with the severity of impact. Accordingly, a user of a multidescribed. In other applications where synthetic fabrics or
layered composite is provided with an effective protection
sheets are used, seams may be attached together by ultrafrom impact injuries. As the danger of extreme impacts is
sonic welding, bonding, application of heat, or any other
suitable method. During use, and after being soaked in water 15 increased, such as with police involved with riot control or
other hazardous duties, layers of more rigid materials are
for a predetermined period of time each absorbent particle
utilized to provide a means to distribute the energy of an
typically expands 100 to 300 times its original volume and
impact to the largest possible number of pressurized pockets.
changes from a relatively hard, crystalline form to a squishy
When struck by a gunshot, the use of garments of this
gelatinous mass. The polymeric fibers typically absorb about
2.5 to 3 times their weight. Because of the characteristics of 20 composite, which includes a ballistic protection layer, has
proven to reduce the impact on the wearer by about 20%. It
the polymer particles or fibers, removal of the water from the
polymer can only be accomplished by means of evaporation.
is also pointed out that segments of the protective layer of
Attempts to squeeze the water from the hydrated polymer
bulletproof or ballistic type materials may be placed over
will likely result in a breakdown of the structural integrity of
only the most vulnerable areas of the body. This arrangethe particle or fiber into smaller pieces that continue to retain 25 ment provides the desired protection while greatly enhancthe absorbed water. This characteristic provides an effective
ing mobility of the user.
means for using the polymer mass as a shock absorbing
Tests of garments fabricated from this composite have
substance.
been outstanding. As mentioned above, composite garments
As is well known, water by itself is considered to be
are readily adaptable to meet the requirements of a variety
incompressible. Water and many other liquids are used for 30 of applications. As an example, in a composite garment as
described for use by a fireman, the retainer layer may simply
shock absorbing purposes by encapsulation of the liquid in
a container which is sealed except for a small opening that
be sprayed with a fire repellent coating, or if required, an
permits expulsion of the water at a controlled rate. To use
additional or partial discrete layer of fire resistant material
water per se in such a manner in a fabric garment having
may be utilized.
It will be understood that after soaking a composite
numerous individual containers (pockets) would obviously 35
be impractical because the water would leak out through the
garment as described above, the composite provides an
materials through which the water was admitted. However,
extremely effective protection for the wearer not only
by holding the water within a polymer, these properties of
against extreme heat, but also against injury.
Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates one
the water, when retained within the polymer, provide an
effective shock-absorbing medium.
40 embodiment of the invention, and by way of example, a
In this invention, a predetermined amount of water satumulti-layered composite 10 having a retainer layer 12, a
rated polymer particles and/or fibers are encapsulated within
filler layer 14 and a conductor layer 16. The retainer layer 12
a fabric pocket of a predetermined size. By controlling the
may be a tightly woven high-strength fabric such as a
amount of polymer in proportion to the size of the pocket,
NOMEX-type fabric through which a liquid (typically
a positive pressure will be exerted upon the inner surfaces of 45 water) may pass. An optional protective coating 13 may be
the pocket by the expanding polymer particles and/or fibers
applied to the outer surface of the retainer layer 12. As the
as they are exposed to water. Thus, it will be readily
name implies, this coating protects the remainder of the
understood that application of an external compression force
composite against damage from external dangers such as fire
to the pocket such as would be caused by an impact to the
and/or impact.
A variety of fire and impact resistant coatings suitable for
pocket, will decrease the volume the pocket. An increase of 50
the internal pressure results as the volume of the pocket is
this purpose are readily available; however provisions must
reduced. If the polymer is totally saturated, and assuming the
be made to permit the passage of liquid either through or
fabric to be waterproof, it will also be understood that after
around the coating to facilitate hydration of the absorbent
particles and/or fibers. This may be accomplished by piercpartial compression of the pocket, incompressibility of the
water trapped within the polymer particles would cause the 55 ing the coating with a multitude of minute punctures.
pocket to rupture if the force of compression became too
In one embodiment, filler layer 14 may be formed of a
great. While some of the energy of impact would he
fiberfill-type batting 18, which is typically unaffected by the
absorbed during this process, the abrupt rupture of the
liquid utilized and which retains tiny absorbent particles 17
pocket would cause immediate loss of all resistance to the
are distributed throughout the batting. The particles 17
impact. To prevent such a rupture, a portion of the pocket 60 typically may be a cross-linked polyacrylamide polymer, the
fabric is of a porosity that will permit controlled expulsion
absorption capacity of which being about 250 times. In
additional embodiments of the present invention, the paror leakage of the hydrated polymer mass. The expulsion of
ticles may be substituted for, or blended with hydrophilic
the hydrated mass occurs as it is forced through the pores of
fibers. The conductor layer 16 may, like the retainer layer 12,
the fabric at a rate sufficient to absorb energy, but to prevent
rupture of the pocket.
65 be made of a NOMEX-type fabric. The inner or outer
This controlled expulsion of the hydrated polymer from
surface, or possibly both surfaces, of conductor layer 16 (the
the pocket provides an effective means of absorbing the
surface which is in use directly against or in close proximity

US 6,371,977 B1

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10

to a person's body) may be covered with a waterproof but
pressure from the dry particles 17. However, as noted supra,
breathable coating 18 such as "BREATHE TEX." The outer
soaking the particles in liquid increases the size of the
surface is shown being covered with this coating in FIG. 1.
particles several hundred times. Accordingly, FIGS. 5-11
(It will be noted that hereinafter wherein reference is made
illustrate the pockets after an appropriate soaking has been
to an inner or outer surface of layers in addition to the 5 accomplished. As illustrated in these figures, after soaking,
conductive layer, in each case the inner surface refers to the
the absorbent particles have expanded the pockets to the
surface of the layer which is the closer to the conductive
extent that, as illustrated in FIG. 6, an internal pressure, Fi,
is exerted against the retainer and conductive layers 12 and
layer.) In use, this coating prevents liquid contained within
16, respectively.
the filler layer from coming in contact with the body of a
In a soaked condition, a garment fabricated from a multiuser and also provides an effective thermal conductor which 10
layered composite as described provides an extremely effecexposes the body of the user to the approximate temperature
tive body protection against intense heat. This protection is
of the liquid retaining particles 17. Since the coating is
provided in multiple ways. First, the retainer layer of the
breathable, it will permit the passage of moisture in vapor
form the body of the user to the absorbent particles for
composite may be provided with a heat resistant coating, the
absorption thereby. This, of course, assumes that the par- 15 function of which is obvious by definition. Second, the
ticles are not totally saturated. In most applications wherein
liquid (typically water) contained by the hydrated particles
the composite is to be used for body temperature control or
and/or fibers or combinations thereof within the filler layer
protection from extreme external temperatures, the absorprovide an effective thermal insulator between the retainer
bent will be soaked to 50% to 70% of total saturation.
layer and the thermally conductive layer adjacent a person's
In a similar embodiment, the filler layer 14 may be 20 body. Third, as the retainer layer is exposed to heat the liquid
constructed of a blend of fibrous materials, with one the
within the filler layer begins to vaporize and pass slowly
through the retainer layer, thus creating a moist film on the
fibrous materials being an extruded hydrophilic polymer. In
outer surface of tie retainer layer. The moisture itself resists
this embodiment, the hydrophilic polymer may be a
LANSEAL-F-type material, available from TOYOBO, of
the heat and protects the outer surface of the retainer layer.
OSAKA, Japan, and which in its extruded form is a thread 25 Fourth, as the moisture on the retainer layer evaporates, an
or fiber that may be blended in a range of from about 30%
evaporative cooling occurs which further cools the retainer
layer. (It will be readily understood that liquid stored within
to about 60% with polyester fiberfill. The resulting blend of
the filler layer will provide a continuation of these cooling
fibers is in appearance identical to fiberfill, with the hydrophilic polymer fibers absorbing approximately 2.5 to 3 times
processes). Fifth, if the user is perspiring, the perspiration
their weight in water in a similar manner as the liquid 30 will, to a large extent, evaporate and cool the user. The
moisture is then carried in the form of humid air through the
retaining particles 17.
The composite material illustrated by way of example in
breathable conductive layer and into the filler layer for
FIG. 2 includes an optional protective fire resistant layer 20.
absorption by the partially saturated absorbent particles or
This discrete layer is utilized for applications wherein it is
fibers. To facilitate this effect, it will be noted that in certain
anticipated that the user will be subjected to fire or heat so 35 applications the particles are not totally saturated during the
soaking process, and that the conductive layer is by design
extreme as to require the maximum possible thermal proan effective thermal conductor. The conductive layer is also
tection. Examples of such fire resistant materials include a
NOMEX-type material and FR (fire resistant) cotton. As
preferably waterproof, yet porous enough to be breathable.
stated, the NOMEX-type material, suggested above as a
As stated above, one material suitable for use in the
40 conductive layer is a NOMEX-type material (NOMEXTM
basic retainer fabric, is a fire resistant material.
being available from the DuPont Corporation). One example
The composite illustrated in FIG. 3 by way of example
includes an optional protective ballistic layer 22. This disof a coating material may be a BREATHE TEX-type matecrete layer is utilized for applications wherein it is anticirial which provides a breathable but waterproof covering
pated that the user be subjected to gun fire or extreme
that is an excellent thermal conductor and presents a cool dry
impacts such as may be experienced by riot police. 45 surface to the body of the wearer. BREATHE-TEXTM itself
Typically, the ballistic layer 22 may be formed using a
is available from Alden Iudustries Inc.
CORDURA-type fabric over a KELVER-type material. This
One example of a batting material suitable for the filler
layer is characteristically quite stiff and as such requires
layer is an ARAMID-E 89-type material, with the material
special attachment procedures that will be discussed in detail
itself being available from DuPont.
hereinafter. While the ballistic layer may be attached in 50
One material suitable for particles impregnated within the
many suitable ways, FIGS. 3, 7, 8, and 10-12 illustrate the
filler material is a cross-linked polyacrylamide polymer
use of VELCRO-type hook and loop style fasteners 25. Use
available from Plant Health Care Inc. As stated, another
of such removable type fasteners permits the temporary
material may be a LANSEAL-F-type material, a fibrous
attachment of segmented protective layers of ballistic matehydrophilic polymer that may be blended with other fiberfill
rial to other layers of composite garments, such as jackets, 55 or batting materials and fibers.
in a manner which will also be discussed in greater detail
One material suitable for use in a retainer layer is a high
hereinafter.
grade of cotton. If fire protection without a discrete protecThe composites such as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 are
tive layer is desired, cotton-fire resistant (cotton-FR) may be
used. This is a cotton fabric that has been sprayed with a fire
stitched to provide seams 26 in a crossing pattern to form a
quilted configuration such as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. As 60 retardant.
illustrated, the crossing seams 26 form closed pockets 27. It
One material suitable for use in as a fire protective layer
is a NOMEX-type material, which, as stated above, is
will be noted that the pockets 37, illustrated in FIG. 4, have
available from the DuPont corporation.
yet to be soaked in liquid. In this dry condition the particles
17 are very tiny (1-2 cubic millimeters) and thus occupy an
One material suitable for use in an impact protective layer
insignificant amount of space within the pockets 27. 65 such as would be utilized by persons subjected to gunfire is
a CORDURA-type material and a KEVLAR-type material,
Accordingly, the retainer and conductor layers, 12 and 18,
both of which being available from DuPont.
respectively, lie substantially fiat and experience no internal

US 6,371,977 B1
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12

FIG. 6 is a sectional is a sectional view taken along
polymer particles as they are exposed to water. Thus, it will
section line 6-6 of FIG. 5. For purpose of illustration, the
be readily understood that application of an external comfiller layer has been omitted from one pocket 27. Arrows, Fi,
pression of the pocket such as would be caused by an impact
to the pocket, will deform and decrease the volume of the
are included within the pocket to illustrate the fact that, after
an appropriate soaking, an outward pressure is exerted upon 5 pocket.
An increase of internal pressure results as the volume of
the inner walls of both the retainer and conductor layers 12
and 16, respectively, by the absorbent saturated particles 17.
the pocket is reduced. If the polymer were to be totally
saturated and assuming the fabric to be waterproof, it will be
To determine an appropriate soaking time, the size and
understood that the incompressibility of the water within the
number of the absorbent particles must be predetermined.
Parameters such as the pocket size required to provide a 10 polymer particles would cause the pocket to rupture if the
predetermined positive pressure within the pockets after the
force became too great. While a small amount of energy
composite has been soaked must also be considered. The
would be absorbed during this process, the abrupt rupture of
required internal pressure, Fi, is dependent upon the
the pocket would cause immediate loss of resistance to the
intended application of the composite.
impact. To prevent such a rupture, a portion of the fabric of
Referring now to FIG. 7, the ballistic layer 22 is illistrated 15 the pocket is fabricated of a material having a porosity which
as being attached to the outermost portions of pockets 27 by
will permit expulsion of gelatinous masses of the saturated
individual patches 25 of a VELCRO-type hook-and-Ioop
polymer particles 17 through the pores of the fabric 15 at a
material. A sheet 24 of either the hook portion or the loop
controlled rate (see FIG. 9). The rate of expulsion is depenportion of the hook-and-Ioop material loop material may be
dent upon the porosity of the material. The expulsion will
attached to the inner surface of the ballistic layer 22. This 20 prevent rupture of the pocket and thus provide an effective
arrangement permits placement and attachment of the balmeans of absorbing the energy created by the impact on the
listic layer 22 in any desired position upon the retainer layer
pocket. The expulsion of the saturated polymer is more
12.
clearly illustrated in FIG. 8 and enlarged to FIG. 9, wherein
Referring now to FIG. 8, the ballistic layer 22 is illustrated
expelled polymer is identified by the numeral 32. As should
as having been impacted by a high velocity object, such as 25 be apparent, the application of energy from an impact will be
a bullet, B. It will be noted that, because of the stiffness of
more effectively absorbed if the force of the impact is
distributed over a number of pockets.
the ballistic layer, the impact of the bullet, B, has been
spread over a relatively large area which encompasses a
The user of the multi-layered composite material, whether
proportionally large number of pockets 27. It will be noted
it be in the form of garment, a blanket, or whatever the item,
that the impact causes considerable deformation and com- 30 is thus provided with effective protection against impact
injuries. As the danger of extreme impacts is increased, such
pression of the affected pockets. As the volume of the
impacted pockets decreases, the pressure within the pockets
as with police engaged in riot control or other hazardous
will increase rapidly, as illustrated by the force arrows, Fii,
duties, layers of more rigid materials may be utilized to
in FIG. 8. Since the liquid within the polymer particles is
provide a means to distribute the energy of an impact to the
incompressible, it is apparent that if the pressures within the 35 largest possible number of pressurized pockets. As compockets are not relieved to some extent, the pockets will
pared to the use of a ballistic garment alone, a composite
burst under the severe stresses caused by impact of the
garment including a ballistic layer has been proven to reduce
bullet.
the impact on the wearer's body by about 20% when struck
Because of the characteristics of the polymers from which
by a gunshot.
these particles 17 are formed, effective removal of the water 40
Tests of this composite in garments for use by firemen,
policemen and military personnel have been truly outstandfrom the polymer can only be accomplished by means of
ing. These garments are readily adaptable to meet the
evaporation. After soaking, polymer particles 17 are transrequirements of the variety of applications mentioned above.
formed from tiny solid particles to a much-enlarged gelatinFor example, to use a garment made from the basic
like mass (see 17, FIG. 9).
An attempt to squeeze the water from the enlarged par- 45 multi-layered composite by a fireman, the retainer layer may
ticles by compression of the particles may result in a
simply be sprayed with a fire retardant coating. If required,
breakdown of the structural integrity of the particles into
an additional discrete layer of fire retardant material may be
smaller pieces which continue to retain the absorbed water.
easily added.
Thus, after soaking a garment as described above, the
As mentioned previously, this characteristic of the polymer
provides an extremely effective medium for use as a shock 50 multi-layered composite provides an extremely effective
protection to the wearer not only against extreme heat but
absorbing substance. As stated, water by itself is considered
also against injury from falling debris as may be encounto be incompressible. Water and many other liquids are used
tered by firemen within a burning building.
for shock absorbing purposes by encapsulation in a container which is sealed except for a small opening which
In use, any item fabricated from the composite material of
permits, its expulsion wider a controlled rate. To use water, 55 the various embodiments of the present invention is soaked
per se, in a garment having numerous individual containers
in a liquid, such as water, for a predetermined time. While
(pockets) would obviously be impractical. However, by
a typical soaking period may be about 2 to 5 minutes, many
parameters must be considered in arriving at an optimum
holding the water within a hydrophilic polymer as described,
soaking period. These parameters include the make up of the
the properties of water when combined with the polymer
provide an effective shock-absorbing medium. Use of the 60 composite, as well as its intended application. For example,
saturated or partially saturated polymer as a shock absorbing
in applications intended primarily for protection against
medium is accomplished by encapsulation of a predetersevere impact, time sufficient to soak the polymer particles,
fibers, or blends thereof to near 100% saturation may be
mined amount of water saturated polymer particles, fibers,
or blends thereof, within a fabric pocket of a predetermined
required. If the application is one requiring protection from
size. By controlling the amount of polymer in proportion to 65 intense heat, time sufficient to achieve 50% to 90% saturathe size of the pocket, a positive pressure will be exerted
tion may be appropriate. It is pointed out that the degree of
upon the inner surfaces of the pocket by the expanding
saturation is measured experimentally and is converted to a

US 6,371,977 B1

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14

soaking time and/or soaking method. In use, such informahydrophilic polymeric fibers that absorb at least about
tion is provide with each composite item. More specifically,
2.5 times the fiber's weight in water;
in an impact protection application, a greater number of
soaking said multi-layered composite in a liquid;
particles would be soaked for a longer time so as to exert a
employing said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
greater pressure within each pocket of the composite. It also 5
material as a garment or a flat sheet and evaporatively
follows that, within the constraints imposed by the pockets,
cooling said person.
the greater the expected impact, the higher the original
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said garment is a shirt,
pressure within the pockets should be. As pointed out supra,
vest, pant, or jacket.
for protection against severe impact from bullets and the
3. The method of claim 1, wherein said soaking occurs for
like, the composite includes a protective layer of ballistic
material. This protective layer may be permanently or tem- 10 a period of 2 to 5 minutes.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein said fibers are comporarily attached to the retainer layer. Permanent attachment
posed of not less than 90 weight percent of acrylonitrile and
may be made by sewing, bonding or other suitable moans
less than ten weight percent of a water-absorbing resm
and may typically be done prior to the quilting process.
Temporary attachment of the protective layer may be
containing carboxyl groups; and
accomplished after completion of the quilting process 15
have a degree of swellability of 10-300 cc/g.
through the use of a hook-and-Ioop material as described. In
5. The method of claim 4, wherein said water-absorbing
this manner the protective layer may be temporarily attached
resin has a particle diameter of not larger than 0.5 microns
to the retainer layer without the need for alignment of the
at absolute dryness and is insoluble in water.
mating hook-and-Ioop materials. This temporary fastening
6. The method of claim 1, wherein said hydrophilic
arrangement permits the attachment or removal of a selected 20 polymeric fibers have an inner layer and an outer layer and
protective layer to whatever area of the users body may
said hydrophilic polymeric fibers are composed of not less
require protection. Thus the user may be clothed in a
than 90 weight percent of an acrylonitrile polymer and
complete suit of quilted composite without a protective
having disbursed therein less than ten weight percent of
layer. Then any selected configuration of the protective layer
water-absorbing resin particles containing at least one carmay be quickly attached. As illustrated in FIG. 10, a police
25 boxyl group represented by -COOX, wherein X is H, NH4
officer requiring protection from gunfire may be provided
or an alkali metal.
with a fitted chest and/or back protection layer (numerals 40
7. The method of claim 1, wherein said hydrophilic
and 42, respectively). As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, a
polymeric fibers are blended with said fiberfill in a range of
fireman fighting a forest fire may be provided with an
from about 15 percent to 75 percent with the fiberfill.
additional protective layer to the legs for protection against
30
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the multi-layered
injury from movement through heavy and often thorny
liquid-retaining composite further comprises a conductive
underbrush, as well as from the intense heat of the fire.
layer and a retainer layer, both of which communicate with
While the equipment illustrated in FIG. 10 typically
the fiberfill batting material.
would be used in lieu of existing equipment, it may also be
9. A method of cooling a person by evaporation, comworn under existing fire fighting equipment. As is well
35 prising:
known, those fighting forest fires are in serious jeopardy
providing a multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
from backfires, which can close any means of escaping the
material comprising:
flames. In this situation, the survival practice is to lie in a
a filler layer comprising:
quickly prepared trench, to cover one's body with a blanket
a fiberfill batting material and
and allow the fire to pass over. The use of a soaked blanket 40
hydrophilic polymeric particles;
fabricated from a composite material as described herein
soaking said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite in
provides unequaled protection for this purpose. As pointed
a liquid; and
out supra, the use of such blankets for protection of bedridemploying said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
den persons is also contemplated.
as a garment or a flat sheet and evaporatively cooling
As stated above, with respect to an application requiring 45
said person.
protection from Intense heat, a saturation of 50% to 90%
may be appropriate so as to provide a means of absorbing the
10. The method of claim 9, wherein said hydrophilic
perspiration of the user. If the user is perspiring the perspiparticles are capable of expanding 100 to 300 times from
ration will to a large extent evaporate thus cooling the user.
their original dry size to a wet size responsive to being
The moisture will then be carried in the form of humid air 50 soaked in liquid.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein said hydrophilic
through the breathable conductive layer and into the filler
layer for absorption by the partially saturated particles.
particles have a volume when dry of between 0.1 to 2 cubic
Other cooling functions of the composite are also described
millimeters.
hereinabove.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the fiberfill batting
Thus, it is understood that various embodiments of the 55 material comprises at least one of a woven aramid fiber or
a polybenzamidazole fiber.
present invention are disclosed which achieve the objectives
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the multi-layered
of the invention as set forth above. However, it should be
appreciated that this invention may be implemented in ways
liquid-retaining composite further comprises a conductive
layer and a retainer layer, both of which communicate with
other than those disclosed. Variations may also be made with
respect to the best mode of practicing this invention without 60 the fiberfill batting material.
departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the
14. The method of claim 9, wherein the multi-layered
following appended claims, wherein we claim.
liquid-retaining composite further comprises a conductive
layer and a retainer layer, both of which communicate with
We claim:
1. A method of cooling a person by evaporation, comthe fiberfill batting material.
prising:
15. A method of cooling a person, comprising:
65
providing a multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
providing a multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
material comprising a fiberfill batting material, and
material comprising:

US 6,371,977 B1
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16

a filler layer comprising:
a fiberfill batting material and
hydrophilic polymeric particles capable of expanding 100 to 300 times from their original dry size to
a wet size responsive to being soaked in liquid;
soaking said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite in
a liquid; and
employing said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
as a garment or a fiat sheet.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein said hydrophilic
particles have a volume when dry of between 0.1 to 2 cubic
millimeters.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the fiberfill batting
material comprises at least one of a woven aramid fiber or
a polybenzamidazole fiber.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein said filler layer
further comprises:
hydrophilic polymeric fibers that absorb at least 2.5 times
the fibers weight in water.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein said hydrophilic
polymeric fibers are polyacrylonitrile/polyacrylate fibers.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein said hydrophilic
polymeric fibers have diameters ranging from about 10 to 50
microns and lengths ranging from about 3 to 60 millimeters.
21. The method of claim 18, wherein said fibers are
comprised of absorbent gelling material and said fibers are
bi-component fibers.
22. The method of claim 18, wherein said fibers are
bi-component fibers of the sheath/core type.
23. The method of claim 15, wherein the multi-layered
liquid-retaining composite further comprises a conductive
layer and a retainer layer, both of which communicate with
the fiberfill batting material.
24. A method of cooling a mammal by evaporation,
comprising:
providing a multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
material comprising a fiberfill batting material, and
hydrophilic polymeric fibers that absorb at least about
2.5 times the fiber's weight in water;
soaking said multi-layered composite in a liquid;
employing said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
material as a garment or a fiat sheet and evaporatively
cooling said mammal.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein said garment is a
shirt, vest, pant, or jacket.
26. The method of claim 24, wherein said soaking occurs
for a period of 2 to 5 minutes.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein said fibers are
composed of not less than 90 weight percent of acrylonitrile
and less than ten weight percent of a water-absorbing resin
containing carboxyl groups; and
have a degree of swellability of 10-300 cc/g.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein said water-absorbing
resin has a particle diameter of not larger than 0.5 microns
at absolute dryness and is insoluble in water.
29. The method of claim 26, wherein said hydrophilic
polymeric fibers have an inner layer and an outer layer and
said hydrophilic polymeric fibers are composed of not less
than 90 weight percent of an acrylonitrile polymer and
having disbursed therein less than ten weight percent of
water-absorbing resin particles containing at least one carboxyl group represented by -COOX, wherein X is H, NH4
or an alkali metal.
30. The method of claim 26, wherein said hydrophilic
polymeric fibers are blended with said fiberfill in a range of
from about 15 percent to 75 percent with the fiberfill.
31. A method of cooling a mammal by evaporation,
comprising:
providing a multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
material comprising:
a filler layer comprising:
a fiberfill batting material and
hydrophilic polymeric particles;
soaking said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite in
a liquid; and
employing said multi-layered, liquid-retaining composite
as a garment or a fiat sheet and evaporatively cooling
said mammal.
32. The method of claim 31, wherein said hydrophilic
particles are capable of expanding 100 to 300 times from
their original dry size to a wet size responsive to being
soaked in liquid.
33. The method of claim 31, wherein said hydrophilic
particles have a volume when dry of between 0.1 to 2 cubic
millimeters.
34. The method of claim 31, wherein the fiberfill batting
material comprises at least one of a woven aramid fiber or
a polybenzamidazole fiber.
35. The method of claim 8, wherein the conductive layer
is provided with a coating that is impervious to liquids,
while allowing free passage of gases therethrough.

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