AN INTEGRATED, WASHABLE AND REUSABLE THREE-DIMENSIONAL (3D) MULTIFUNCTIONAL KNITTED FABRIC STRUCTURE AND METHOD TO PRODUCE THE SAME

摘要

This invention provides a three-dimensional (3D) multifunctional knitted fabric structure comprising two independent layers (1 and 3) connected by cross-threads (2) being able to be applied as absorbency structure in medium incontinence men's reusable underwear. The structure is produced in a single step using weft-knitting technology and designed to perform several functions in a single fabric. The inner layer (1), to be in contact with human body, is responsible to transport liquid, urine and perspiration from the human body to the outer layer (3), through the cross-threads (2), keeping dry the human skin. Cross-threads (2) are responsible to keep apart both independent layers and to transport liquid from the inner layer (1) to the outer layer (2). The outer layer (3) is responsible to absorb the liquid and, at same time, to control the odor and microorganisms proliferation generated by the urine. The outer layer (3) is coated or laminated (4) with a moisture control polyurethane in order to prevent liquid passage to the user paints and at same time to provide vapor transmission.