Multiscale Finite Element Modeling of the Viscoelastic Behavior of Sportswear Under Periodic Load

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different stitch factors on the mechanical behavior of the seam section of sportswear under periodic load. Multiscale finite element (FE) modeling was then utilized to predict the mechanical behavior of the samples under periodic tensile load. The unit cells of the fabric and the stitched section were modeled in the mesoscale. Elastic and viscoelastic properties of the yarns were assigned to the model. In order to obtain the mechanical properties of the sample, periodic boundary conditions were applied to the unit cell. Elastic and viscoelastic properties calculated from the mesoscale were then used for the macromodel. FE results had a good agreement with the experimental ones in predicting the mechanical behavior of the seam section under the periodic tensile load. By using Taguchi method, the optimum sample was found.