Quantitative mode for predicting fabric drape parameters applying Geometric–Mechanical coupling and fold morphology analysis

Abstract

The drapability of fabrics continues to be among the key parameters that determine the performance of a particular textile material. Drapability impacts not only its visual qualities but also the functional characteristics, especially of technical and protective materials. In this research, a quantifiable method for predicting drape is proposed by the combination of geometric characteristics, mechanical properties, and the analysis of fold formation, thus uniting the drape coefficient (DCg), fold number (N), and drape stability (S). The model proposes the use of the float length characteristic (F) as a way to describe interlacement density, establishing the non-linear relation between it and the DC, as well as between the inverse float length (1/F), which proves high sensitivity during the transition from the plain weave to the open weave. At the same time, the impact of the boundary condition is introduced, using the geometric confinement ratio Λ1= (R b /R f ), which allows for making predictions about the drape variation depending on the diameter of the support. For testing purposes, several fabric samples were used, differing in the structure of weaving, yarn count, and density. The geometric model (DCg) demonstrated high accuracy of measurements with an average error of 3%,.This model was developed in this study as a dependable prediction tool for predicting drape behavior, and it gives some fresh insights for designing and optimizing textile structures, too. It is not just a prediction thing, though; it also helps you understand how the fabric drape will behave.