A Novel Method for 3D Surface and Solid Construction Analysis of Fabric Microstructure

In-depth knowledge of fabric microstructure is essential for understanding clothing comfort since it plays a significant role in heat and mass transfer between the human body and clothing. In this study, a novel method was employed for investigating 3D surfaces and solid construction characteristics of specific fabrics by using a reverse engineering technique. The surface construction data were obtained by a confocal laser scanning microscope and then manipulated by a 3D analysis program. Triangle mesh was used for connecting each 3D point, with clouds and fabric surface characteristics created by rendering techniques. For generating a 3D solid model, determinants of radius of curvature was used. According to the proposed method, actual surface expression of the real fabric was achieved successfully. The results from this methodology can be applied to the detailed analysis of clothing comfort that is highly influenced by the microstructure of the fabric.