Weft-knitted lace fabric simulation based on the spring-mass model

Purpose The obtained simulation structures could reflect the appearances and the features of the fabrics. The purpose of this paper is to promote a lot for design and manufacturing of weft-knitted lace fabrics (WKLF). Design/methodology/approach The advantages of WKLF compared with warp-knitted ones were displayed. The formation mechanism of the WKLF was analyzed with employing the mechanics principles. Spring-mass model was proposed in this paper to achieve the simulation of the fabrics. End mass points and intermediate mass points were involved in the model. The displacement of end mass points was considered the dominance and the foundation to settle the positions of all the mass points. Findings A novel jacquard lace style fabric with pattern-background effect knitted on circular knitting machine were put forward, which were different from the traditional lace fabrics manufactured on the warp knitting machines. Originality/value First, as the manufacturing equipment, circular knitting machine costs much less than warp knitting machine; second, the elastic performance along weft direction of WKLF is more excellent than that of warp-knitted ones. Third, the excellent extensibility gives nice comfort; furthermore, long floating threads do not exist on the WKLF surface, so that the snag will be avoided.