Finite element modelling of fabric compression

The mechanical behaviour of woven fabric under compression is investigated using 3D finite element analysis in conjunction with a nonlinear mechanical model for the yarn. The FE model captures the main fabric compression response, including geometric and material nonlinearities, yarn interactions and hysteresis. It is found that the behaviour of fabric in compression is governed by the stiffness of the yarn cross-section and the transverse–longitudinal shear modulus. The stiffness along the yarn direction has no noticeable effect. The model is sufficient to simulate the known responses of a fabric as well as to predict the behaviour of novel fabrics based on the properties of the component yarns and yarn interactions.