Mathematical modelling of complicated 3D woven fabrics

This paper presents a module to facilitate the design and manufacturing process of warp-wise three dimensional (3D) woven fabrics. An implanted interface was created for the users to determine the interlacement position between the warp and weft yarns. The wefts are represented by straight rods, and the path of the warp yarn could be formed by piecing together yarn segments. The selection of yarn segments is determined by the positions of yarn interlacement. According to the position of yarn interlacement, a mathematical algorithm was developed to generate weave matrix so that the lifting plan could be automatically obtained for the subsequent weaving process. If the weave matrix was provided, the module is also able to visualise the fabric by OpenGL so that people could preview and modify the structures.