MECHANICAL METHODS OR APPARATUS IN THE MANUFACTURE OF ARTIFICIAL FILAMENTS, THREADS, FIBRES, BRISTLES OR RIBBONS

Description

D01D covers mechanical processes and equipment used to manufacture synthetic filaments, threads, fibers, bristles, and ribbon-like structures from man-made materials. This includes spinning apparatus, drawing and stretching equipment, texturizing machines, and other mechanical devices employed after the initial polymer extrusion or formation stage. The classification encompasses both continuous filament production and staple fiber manufacturing, including mechanical treatments applied to modify fiber properties such as crimp, bulk, or strength. Related chemical processes in polymer synthesis and the production of natural fibers are classified elsewhere in D01.

Filing statistics

CPC subclass D01D recorded 38,312 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023. Annual filings grew from 2,035 in 2013 to 3,260 in 2023 (+60%), peaking at 4,746 applications in 2020. The most active applicants in class D01 are TORAY INDUSTRIES (1,268 applications), MASCHINENFABRIK RIETER (1,200 applications) and NATIONAL DONG HWA UNIVERSITY (955 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings