A Predictive Model for the Fabric-to-Yarn Bending Stiffness Ratio of a Plain-Woven Set Fabric

A model for woven fabric behavior in bending is formulated based on a representation of fabric deformation as a coordinate transformation. The model is essentially based on previously published assumptions of yarn behavior but provides predictions closer to real fabric properties. It uses the energy approach for mechanical problems of textiles and employs a polynomial approximation of the thread shape. The mathematically subtle contact problem of yarns within a fabric can be turned into a more general consideration of yarn compression, and this can be investigated by independent, practical experimen tation. Comparison with previously published experimental data for a variety of thread types and fabric parameters shows reasonable agreement between predicted and measured bending stiffness of plain woven fabric.