Weave GeoModeller is the basic program for design and structural geometry of single-layer woven fabrics.
Input is in three stages. The use of conversion tool gives freedom in choice of design specification. (1) Selection of weave by formula, point paper or mesh. (2) Selection of warp and weft yarn shape and dimensions (basically, diameter for circular yarns, and major and minor axes for non-circular). (3) Selection of fabric specification (basically two thread spacings and a crimp value).
Output includes list of fabric parameters, and manipulatable 3D graphic of the fabric. In addtition to standard features, such as zoom. translation and rotation, there are special features, such as viewing from selected directions and slicing through the fabric to give cross-sections at different levels.
Currently available yarn shapes are circular, racetrack (which is good as a geometrical approximation, but not for mechanics), and lenticular (which is a reasonable approximation for mechanics). Core research in the University of Manchester, as part of TechniTex Faraday Partnership, will provide a more general approach to yarn shape.
Weave GeoModeller provides the input facility needed to determine fabric performance in a variety of applications. Currently, it is linked to Weave Mechanics, but other options will be developed. |
