Apparatus for making nonwoven fabrics having raised portions

摘要

A topographical support member and a method of forming a topographical support member for use in producing nonwoven fabrics with raised portions, especially intaglio and slub type portions. The topographical support member (102) comprises a body (100) having a top surface (103) including a first micro-sized topographical pattern and a pattern of apertures (107) extending through the body (100). At least one macro-sized region recessed below the top surface (103) is provided. The micro-sized pattern produces a background portion of the fabric and the macro-sized recessed regions produce the raised portions of the fabric. Multiple levels may be provided in the macro-sized region to produce multiple level raised portions.