Computation of bending behavior of woven structures using optimization techniques

This paper describes a mechanical model to predict the behavior of plain-woven fabrics under pure bending. A generalized energy approach that handles the nonlinear properties of constituent yarns is used in the formulation. The model takes into account fabric set as well as yarn compression previously ignored in many analyses. The model is validated against the experimental data of both monofilament fabrics and glass fabrics, and there is reasonably good agreement. The model gives rise to a computationally efficient algorithm that can be solved using readily available mathematical software based on nonlinear programing optimization techniques.