Physical Interpretations of Curves Obtained through the Fabric Extraction Process for Handle Measurement

The major issues dealt with in this article are the possibility and principles of measuring multiple fabric properties with a single testing process, the fabric extraction method, which has been applied to handle measurement and evaluation. A theoretical model proposed by Alley is presented with some modifications to simulate the shape of the curve obtained using the fabric extraction method. Also, various approaches are used to explore the physical interpretations of the curve. Relations between fabric properties measured using the KES-F system and the data derived from the extraction curves are discussed so as to reveal specific practical meanings. An extraction curve can be characterized by five geometric features derived from that curve. These features can be treated as the indicators of fabric properties and are closely related to such properties as drape coefficient and crease recovery angle. The effects of fiber content and fabric construction on the shape of the curve are also demonstrated, indicating that the extraction method may be used for fabric identification or recognition.