Engineering, Manufacturing, and Measuring 3D Domed Woven Fabrics

Abstract

Textile materials and products are increasingly used for technical applications. In some areas, textiles with 3D shapes are essential. This paper describes efforts to engineer, design, manufacture, and assess 3D domed woven fabrics. The research involves an easily mountable add-on device for looms that enables the production of 3D domed fabrics and possibly fabrics with other 3D shapes. To evaluate the domed effect of the fabrics, a dome index is defined and approved as a valid measure. A dome tester is also developed in this research, with the ability to measure the dome effect and also fabric mouldability.