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Predicting the Mechanical Behaviour of Smart Textiles

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Thesis(11.35 MB)

Date

2025

Authors

Supervisor

Lowe, Andrew
Joseph, Frances

Item type

Thesis

Degree name

Doctor of Philosophy

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Publisher

Auckland University of Technology

Abstract

Textiles are being progressively explored for use as transducers. Transducers convert energy or variations in physical quantities, such as pressure or brightness, into electrical signals or vice versa. Textile transducers facilitate prompt implementation in the biomedical range because they are correlated with soft constructions suitable to conform to anatomical shapes. Textile transducers classically combine conventional and non-conventional yarns and depend on carefully tailored yarn combinations and structuring of different materials. However, investigations in this field tend to be based on empirical techniques to characterise the functioning of specific textile transducers, meaning that this information cannot be generalised. This study aims to develop a model for predicting the mechanical performance of knitted textile materials by observing the characteristics of textiles to eliminate the need for designers to develop their prototypes using trial-and-error processes. The key objective of this study is to understand and predict the mechanical behaviour of smart knitted textiles by developing and testing a theoretical model. This research focuses on the behaviour of plain weft knitted textiles using a single conductive yarn type and nonconductive yarn when applying a uniaxial mechanical load. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) was used to precisely measure the dynamic movement and stretching of fabrics during mechanical strain. The information gained from this process informed the development of a theoretical framework based on energy conservation principles. A range of empirical tests were used to validate the theoretical model. The model was further used to inspect the effect of different conductive and nonconductive yarns and stitch arrangements on the structure of the knitted textile. The findings offer valuable insights into the mechanical properties and potential uses of smart knitted textiles, underscoring their exceptional flexibility, stretchiness, and integration capabilities in comparison to woven and non-woven fabrics. the contributions of this research seem to focus on both the theoretical understanding and practical applications of smart knitted textiles, specifically regarding their mechanical behaviour, flexibility, and potential uses as sensors. These contributions could be grouped into larger subjects if they share a common goal. Here’s how they might come together: • Mechanical Properties and Integration: Explain how the study discovers the specific mechanical properties (such as stretchiness or flexibility) possessed by smart knitted textiles and which can be integrated into such textile construction. It is possible that knitted fabrics can be made for sensor applications than woven or non-woven ones. • Theoretical and Practical Advancement: The development of predictive models and the connections of theory with the practice has been successful while the thesis also contributes to the field of textile engineering which may motivate further development into smart textile technology. This work responds to the growing need for innovative, multifunctional textile designs, offering a solid starting point for advancing wearable technology and smart textile applications. By delving into the connections between material composition, stitch patterns, and mechanical behaviour, this research enhances our theoretical understanding of textile mechanics while showcasing its practical value for everyday use and future innovations.

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http://hdl.handle.net/10292/18991

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Doctoral Theses