Finite element modeling and experimental testing of woven fabric based on a new instrument: simulative analysis of the compression property

A multi-scale finite element (FE) model including a macro-scale instrument and fabric composed of meso-scale yarns is established so as to deeply understand the compression mechanism of woven fabrics based on the Quick-Intelligent Handle Evaluation System. The compression stress and strain of the fabric and its internal warp and weft yarns are revealed in the FE analysis, and a parameter study involving the friction coefficient, Young's modulus, yarn spacing and crimp height is addressed to understand the fabric deformation. The results show that fabric parameters have a significant impact on the compression behavior, indicating that the compression performance of the fabric is limited by the nonlinear mechanical and geometric properties of the yarn. Moreover, by comparing the FE modeling and experimental testing, the FE model proved to be sufficient to simulate the compression response of the fabric, so as to predict the compression property based on actual or preset material properties.