Large Deformation Modelling of Flexible Materials

This paper presents a practical numerical solution to predicting large deformations of flexible materials such as fabrics. Previous researchers have employed various other approaches such as pure analytical solutions or computer-based finite difference or finite element approaches. They made simplifications in the analysis in terms of the object geometry, load conditions, boundary conditions and material behaviour. However, the present model can predict the deformations based on the exact geometry and a non-linear moment-curvature relation. The modelling technique reported in this paper is verified by comparing deformation results with those published elsewhere. In addition, the present authors have obtained data from their own experimental work in order to verify the non-linear capability of their modelling technique. The non-linear large deformation modelling technique gives closer agreement with the practical tests than previously published methods.