Browse Topic: Fabrics and textiles

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Design and Application of Simulation-Based Lifting Tool for Fabric Truck Roller Replacement2026-99-01377/31/2026
In the process of replacing the rollers of the fabric cart of the tobacco storage cabinet, in order to solve the problems of low replacement efficiency and high safety risk.This article proposes a specialized lifting tool for fabric cart rollers with a self-locking and adopts the screw lifting structure, which facilitates roller maintenance operations, and conducts SolidWorks Simulation calculations and dynamic simulation methods. Jinan Cigarette Factory fine cigarettes special line leaf silk temporary storage cabinet fabric car roller replacement, for example, the results show that: the average operating personnel reduced by 50%, the replacement time from 6.7h to 1.2h, efficiency increased by 458%, This innovation significantly reduces the labor intensity of maintenance personnel and ensures a safe and reliable replacement process.
Zhang, Lei, Xue, Yifei, Zhang, Ge, Sun, Yanzhao, Wang, Hongbin, Cheng, Linfeng
Towards Realistic Stick-Slip Testing: Efficiently Mapping Material Behavior across a wide Range of Loading Conditions2026-01-07136/20/2026
To minimize noise caused by interior components rubbing against each other, automotive materials are usually tested in advance with the established stick-slip method according to VDA standard 230-206. This procedure is widely used for soft materials, upholstery and plastics. However, it is limited to constant climatic and selected loading conditions. Contrary, in real application, changing climates and dynamic excitations can nevertheless trigger noise issues even in materials rated as suitable in the prior tests. To address this gap, a new test method has been developed that evaluates the stick-slip behavior of material combinations for a wide range of loading and climatic conditions. Conducted in a climate chamber with a standard stick-slip test bench, the procedure applies sinusoidal excitations, dynamic climatic shifts and advanced data analysis. In addition to the usual results the new method also evaluates realistic scenarios such as starting a vehicle in different seasons or sudden jolting movements with high excitation speeds. The result is a detailed map of stick-slip behavior as a function of excitation speed and climate. While requiring a similar level of effort as the traditional test, this approach delivers far greater insight. It enables a more reliable optimization of materials and facilitates targeted material selection for specific applications. In this manner, it can not only contribute to improve product quality but also to achieve quiet interiors and customer satisfaction.
Fritz, Susanne, Strangfeld, Martin
Impregnation of Dry Fabric and Ply Lay-UpARP5319 (Current)5/20/2026
This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) describes and gives general guidelines on use and applicability of standard methods for impregnating dry fabric and lay-up of the impregnated plies. The methods of impregnating dry fabric and ply lay-up described in this document have specific application and are not interchangeable. The methods should only be used when specified in an approved repair procedure or with the agreement of the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or regulatory authority.
AMS CACRC Commercial Aircraft Composite Repair Committee
Test Method for Measuring Wet Color Transfer CharacteristicsJ1326_202604 (Current)4/8/2026
This procedure describes a method of measuring the resistance to wet color transfer of materials such as textiles, leather, and composites.
Textile and Flexible Plastics Committee
Using Waste to Purify WaterTBMG-548714/1/2026
Using waste to purify water may sound counterintuitive. But at TU Wien, this is exactly what has now been achieved: a special nanostructure has been developed to filter a widespread class of harmful dyes from water. A crucial component is a material that is considered waste: used cellulose, for example, in the form of cleaning cloths or paper cups. The cellulose is utilized to coat a fine nanofabric to create an efficient filter for polluted water.
Combining 3D Embroidery Techniques with Machine Learning for Fabric-Based Touch SensorsTBMG-545522/1/2026
A new study from NC State University combines three-dimensional embroidery techniques with machine learning to create a fabric-based sensor that can control electronic devices through touch.
Direct Deposition of Nickel Abrasion Guards on to Carbon Filled Composite Rotor Blade StructuresSM-2026-VLADA-51991/27/2026
Composite materials have become widely adopted in commercial aviation, as aerospace manufacturers look to use them to drive weight reduction and improved fuel efficiency in new aircraft designs. In the case of aircraft rotary blades, the poor wear properties of these materials have necessitated the development of metal leading edge guards that can provide critical protection against erosion and impact damage during flight. Electroforming has been a leading process for the manufacture of these protective guards, with nickel parts providing excellent wear resistance that significantly extends the service life of the rotary blade assembly. Currently there has not been a focus on utilizing direct electrodeposition of metal on to carbon filled epoxy composite structures, as traditional plating-on-plastics approaches require considerable effort in surface preparation and normally do not provide adequate adhesion to the underlying structure. Alpha Metalcraft Group has been working in cooperation with aerospace suppliers in the design of an electroplating ready composite structure that would allow for direct nickel deposition, provide excellent adhesion, and significantly reduce both the time and cost for the manufacture of ready-to-assembly rotary blade structures. Test panels were constructed of commercially available prepreg materials or by resin infusion of dry fabrics that incorporated different metal containing conductive layers to allow for the direct deposition through a nickel sulfamate electrodeposition process. Different surface modification strategies were investigated to expose the metal conducting layer and thereby provide the metal-to-metal bonding surfaces required for successful electrodeposition.
Cazzaniga, Luigi
Development of a Seamless Selectively Elevated Fabric Switch for Intuitive and Sustainable Automotive Interior Interfaces2026-26-05961/16/2026
This technology solves a long-standing ergonomic and aesthetic problem in automotive and consumer interface design, as the use of mechanical switches disrupts the clean look of modern interiors and tends to attract dust and wear. Currently available technologies, such as capacitive touch buttons and mechanical push switches, do not provide the corresponding tactile feedback or clear indication of touch, and usually contain visible openings that interrupt the design flow. Moreover, traditional switches are made up of multiple built-in components, which results in complicated construction and difficult maintenance. To address these drawbacks, we propose a Seamlessly Integrated, Selectively Elevated Fabric Switch that remains flush with the surface when not in use and automatically rises to form a tactile interface when required. The system is a multi-layer construction consisting of an outer fabric upholstery layer, a tactile actuation membrane, and a smart electromagnetic actuator layer. Permanent magnets and electromagnets are used in combination in the system so that they repel the switch surface upward when necessary. The actuation sequence is triggered through proximity sensing or capacitive detection mechanisms, thus eliminating the necessity for responsive and user-friendly interfaces without sacrificing mechanical functionality. To ensure safe and deliberate interaction, the switch is designed not to be eligible for activation until the total thickness of the fabric and tactile layers reaches a predetermined threshold. The system is appropriate for smart appliances, next-generation user interface systems, and car interiors because it is not only conceptually elegant, which improves aesthetic integration, but it is also robust, dustproof, and easy to use. This invention sets a new standard for intelligent, adaptive user interfaces and supports upcoming advancements like haptic feedback and programmable elevation zones.
Mohunta, Sanjay, Panchal, Girish, Puthran, Shaunak
Electric Mobility and Materials Circularity - A Study of Recycled PET Textiles for Automotive Interiors2026-26-02371/16/2026
The adoption of sustainability in electric mobility has made it crucial to investigate environmentally friendly materials. Polymer materials used in automotive application plays very important role in material circularity contributing significant value addition to the overall carbon footprint index. This study discloses the development of recycled polyester textiles derived from PET bottle waste and use for automotive interior parts. The use of recycled textiles is directly helping the organization in scope 3 emissions to get the lower carbon footprint value as it is eliminating the use of fossil fuel resources in making the PET textiles. In this study, the development of 50% recycled PET textile and its feasibility for automotive interior is disclosed in detail. The 50 % recycled PET was tested against automotive critical requirements such as sun load UV resistance, abrasion durability, color migrations, soiling resistance, mechanical and thermal properties. The findings showed that recycled fabrics can perform equal to the virgin materials in all aspects meeting all critical functional requirements. This development encourages the automotive industry to adopt environmentally responsible practices, fostering a more sustainable and eco-conscious future. The findings serve as a foundation for further exploration and innovation in the development of eco-friendly materials for automotive applications.
Palaniappan, Elavarasan, Varatharajan, Senthilkumaran, Balaji, K V, Dodiya, Rohanbhai
Development of Sustainable Textile Solutions Using Recycled and Bio-Based Materials for Automotive Soft Trims2026-26-02361/16/2026
The rising importance of sustainability in the automotive sector has led to increased interest in circular and environmentally responsible materials, particularly for plastic trims parts, both interior and exterior. This study focuses on developing textile solutions using recycled polyethylene terephthalate (r-PET) sourced from post-consumer plastic waste, along with bio-based fibres such as bamboo. These materials made into woven and knitted fabrics are studied to suit different vehicle interior applications. r-PET textiles show promising strength, aesthetic appeal, and durability performance. Bamboo fabrics are known for their natural antimicrobial properties and enhanced breathability. Extensive testing is performed to validate explored sustainable materials performance against key automotive requirements. With this study, we gain an understanding of the performance of variedly sourced sustainable raw materials for automotive specific textile applications by different manufacturing methods.
Deshpande, Sanjana, Borgaonkar, Subodh
Electronic Fiber Provides Stretchable SensingTBMG-544211/1/2026
EPFL researchers have engineered a fiber-based electronic sensor that remains functional even when stretched to over 10 times its original length. The device holds promise for smart textiles, physical rehabilitation devices, and soft robotics.
Nanosilica-Based Treatments for Fabrics: Aspects of Wettability and Selective Oil/Water Separation2025-36-021312/18/2025
Nanosilica-treated fabrics have a variety of properties, such as durability, water resistance, and specific surface characteristics. Due to that, many applications of those components are highlighted in literature. Some examples include waterproofing and water repellency, stain resistance, flame retardancy, improved durability, UV protection, improved comfort, antimicrobial properties, and textile coatings for electronics. These applications demonstrate how nanosilica-based treatments can enhance the performance of fabrics, making them more suitable for various specialized uses. In this work, a technical fabric with a mesh opening of 45 μm and an open area of 29.6% was surface treated. The treatments were performed by the dip-coating method using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) and nanosilica at different concentrations. Optical microscopy (OM) images of the fabrics’ surface and water contact angle (WCA) measurements were carried out before and after the fabrics’ treatments. The results showed a significant increase in the water contact angle of the treated fabrics compared to the untreated ones. After treatment with PDMS (4 wt.%) and silica nanoparticles (0.1 wt.%), the fabrics reached WCA values of approximately 140°, demonstrating the effectiveness of the coating in enhancing hydrophobicity compared to the untreated fabric (WCA of 103°). OM images demonstrated a good uniformity and dispersion of the nanoparticles on the fabrics’ surfaces after the treatments. Untreated fabric was not able to separate water from oil, while all the treated fabrics demonstrated efficient oil/water separation, varying only flux rate, depending on the type of surface treatment. In conclusion, the oil/water separation was effective when surface treatments were applied to the fabrics’ surfaces.
Kerche, Eduardo Fischer, Leal, Débora, Romano, Paulo, Oliveira, Vinícius, Polkowski, Rodrigo
Review of Through-the-Thickness Reinforcement Technologies Applied to Aircraft CFRP Composites2025-99-035512/17/2025
Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used in aircraft structures for weight reduction due to their high specific strength and modulus. However, their weak interlaminar properties lead to high sensitivity to out-of-plane loads such as impact, making them prone to delamination damage, which threatens flight safety. To enhance interlaminar performance, through-thickness reinforcement technologies, particularly Z-pinning and stitching, have become key research focuses. This paper systematically reviews the manufacturing processes, structural mechanical characteristics, and application progress in aerospace structures of these two mainstream through-thickness reinforcement technologies. Research shows that Z-pintechnology, by implanting metal or CFRP pins, and stitching technology, by sewing multiple fabric layers with fiber threads, both effectively bridge interlaminar cracks, significantly improving the impact resistance of composites. However, the implantation processes introduce defects such as fiber waviness, breakage, and “eye-shaped” resin-rich zones, leading to varying degrees of reduction in in-plane tensile, compressive, and shear properties. Key parameters, such as Z-pin diameter/density/insertion angle, stitch thread diameter/density/pattern, decisively influence the performance enhancement and trade-offs. At the application level, Z-pin technology is mature, suitable for localized toughening of prepreg laminates and joint reinforcement, and is easily integrated into existing processes. Stitching technology, combined with automation and resin infusion processes, demonstrates unique advantages in manufacturing large-scale integrated structures, significantly enhancing damage tolerance. Despite their significant potential, the application of through-the-thickness reinforcement technologies in primary aircraft load-bearing structures remains limited. Their long- term performance under hygrothermal environments and fatigue endurance require further validation. Future efforts should focus on optimizing parameters to balance performance trade-offs and exploring new directions such as integrating health monitoring.
Cui, Bo, Zhang, Yongjie, Zhang, Chuzhe, Jin, Tao
Sensor Latency Advantage in PCI Express Switched Fabrics - Draft2025-01-04689/16/2025
Modern-day sensors encounter performance bottlenecks due to latency in the data path to processing, analysis, and storage functions. This issue can be mitigated by introducing a direct PCI Express (PCIe) or PCIe-switched fabric connection to the sensor. PCIe significantly reduces latency, outperforming other standard connection forms like Ethernet. Let’s explore the efficiency and advantages of a PCIe connection and focus on the versatility of the PCIe-switched fabric.
Reardon, Jim
Cloths, Cleaning, For Aircraft Primary and Secondary Structural SurfacesAMS3819E (Current)9/10/2025
This specification covers absorbent fabric materials supplied either as dry cloth or presaturated cloth for solvent cleaning process applications.
AMS G9 Aerospace Sealing Committee
Cairene Car-Culture: How are Automobility and Social Behavior Linked to The Development of The Soundscape and Urban Fabric of Cairo2025-01-00695/5/2025
Cairo’s soundscape has witnessed changes due to the ongoing urban structure developments that accommodate the number of vehicles passing through the city. The soundscape produced by this growing automobility is affected not only by vehicles but also by their owners' behavior. Cairenes use their cars as a communication tool and an extension of private space. By viewing the vehicle as a component of the soundscape as well as a space that filters it, this study examines the synergy between social behavior, automobility, urban structure, and their interdependent relationship on the soundscape of Cairo. The study responds to literature elaborating on acoustic ecology, car culture, urban structure, and social behavior. The methodology applied in this study follows practice-based phenomenological research while documenting and reflecting on car cultural practices in Cairo from an aural perspective. Grounded theory contextualizes the analysis of archived audio and video material, semi-structured interviews, and performances. Performances are used as a form of action research to collect public responses and as a reflective outcome where selected participants are observed as they partake in a staged performance. The staged performance attempts to create a state of suspension of disbelief where the participants can focus on comprehending their relationships with their cars.
Abd El Naby, Abla Mohamed
Advanced Manufacturing and Materials: Vol. 1EPRCOMPV0220244/30/2025
Lee-Jeffs, Ann, Safi, Joanna, Muelaner, Jody Emlyn, Barkan, Terrance
Flexible Lightweight Radiation ShieldingTBMG-528214/1/2025
Lead-filled aprons are currently used for atomic number (Z)-grade radiation shielding in the medical industry to protect personnel from hazardous gamma radiation. These apron garments are made with lead-filled elastomeric sheets encased in polymeric fabrics and are both heavy and bulky to meet necessary shielding requirements. In addition, there are environmental safety concerns surrounding disposal of these garments due to their lead content. An innovator at NASA Langley Research Center has developed a novel method for making thin, lightweight radiation shielding that can be sprayed or melted onto common textiles used in clothing such as cotton, nylon, polyester, Nomex, and Kevlar.
Smart Textile Senses Light, Pressure, Smell, and Even TasteTBMG-526203/1/2025
Researchers have developed a multifunctional sensor based on semiconductor fibers that emulates the five human senses. Prof. Bonghoon Kim, department of robotics and mechatronics engineering of Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST), conducted the study in collaboration with Prof. Sangwook Kim at KAIST, Prof. Janghwan Kim at Ajou University, and Prof. Jiwoong Kim at Soongsil University. The technology developed in the study is expected to be utilized in fields such as wearables, Internet of Things (IoT), electronic devices, and soft robotics.
Presentation of Biocomposites for Proposal for Use in Car Bumpers2024-36-014812/20/2024
Car bumpers are protective structures for the occupants of a vehicle during a collision, absorbing impact energy, such a structure is located at the front and rear of the vehicle. Metals were used to manufacture the first bumpers, and it was subsequently assessed that using a different material would reduce their weight, for example plastic, resulting in increased fuel economy and impact absorption. Also, the use of polymers reinforced by glass fibers offer good mechanical strength. This work evaluates the replacement of conventional materials by an ecologically more viable alternative, natural fibers as plastic reinforcement, reducing costs, without considerable loss in the material mechanical properties. Specimens of reinforced composite material were produced with jute fiber. The fibers, obtained through fabrics, were standardized in length of 5.0 mm and 15.0 mm. The matrix phase applied was the unsaturated and pre-accelerated terephthalic polyester resin manufactured by Royal Polymers, and the catalyst MEK V388 was applied to accelerate the material curing process. The production technique was manual lamination from silicone molds with dimensions specified by ASTM D638. The specimens were subjected to tensile strength tests to determine their mechanical properties. The tensile strength of composites with fibers of 5.0 mm and 15.0 mm were: 17.59 (± 4.69) MPa and 21.17 (± 6.42) MPa, respectively. In addition, the appearance and profile of the fracture surface after the tensile test are presented in this work.
Soares, Rafael Vilhena, Dias, Roberto Yuri Costa, de Mendonca Maia, Pedro Victor, Junior, Waldomiro Gomes Paschoal, Fujiyama, Roberto Tetsuo
Preliminary Indication Approach of Jute Fiber Fabric with Polyester for Bumpers of Passenger Cars2024-36-014912/20/2024
Polypropylene has been the plastic traditionally used in the manufacture of bumpers. Composite materials have been presented as an alternative due to lightness and sustainability. This article presents a composite of polyester resin and jute fiber fabric as an innovative alternative to be studied for the manufacture of automotive bumpers. Composite material was manufactured for characterization. It was used as matrix the terephthalic polyester resin, unsaturated and pre-accelerated, and the catalyst MEK V388 for curing the composite. The chosen reinforcement was the jute fiber fabric. Silicone molds with dimensions according to ASTM 3039 were used to manufacture specimens, and subsequent tensile strength test to determine properties and compare with literature data. The composite with jute fiber reinforcement with alignment 0°/0°/0° was evaluated as viable for the application in car bumpers, having its value of tensile strength surpassed that of the composite reinforced by jute fiber with alignment 45°/45°/45° and the results presented in the literature.
Dias, Roberto Yuri Costa, Soares, Rafael Vilhena, de Mendonca Maia, Pedro Victor, dos Santos, Jose Emilio Medeiros, Miranda, Igor Ramon Sinimbú, Junior, Waldomiro Gomes Paschoal, Fujiyama, Roberto Tetsuo
Future Washable Smart Clothes Powered by Wi-Fi will Monitor HealthTBMG-5220512/1/2024
Purdue University engineers have developed a method to transform existing cloth items into battery-free wearables resistant to laundering. These smart clothes are powered wirelessly through a flexible, silk-based coil sewn on the textile.
Wearable Solar ConcentratorsTBMG-5194311/1/2024
In the future, power sockets used to recharge smartphones, tablets, and laptops could become obsolete. The electricity would then come from our own clothes. By means of a new polymer that is applied on textile fibers, clothing could soon function as solar collectors and thus as a mobile energy supply.
3D Printed Active FabricTBMG-5198811/1/2024
Scientists have developed an innovative wearable fabric that is flexible but can stiffen on demand. Developed through a combination of geometric design, 3D printing, and robotic control, the new technology, RoboFabric, can quickly be made into medical devices or soft robotics.
Smart Glove Can Boost Hand Mobility of Stroke PatientsTBMG-514139/1/2024
A new groundbreaking “smart glove” is capable of tracking the hand and finger movements of stroke victims during rehabilitation exercises. The glove incorporates a sophisticated network of highly sensitive sensor yarns and pressure sensors that are woven into a comfortable stretchy fabric, enabling it to track, capture, and wirelessly transmit even the smallest hand and finger movements.
A Methodology for Accelerated Thermo-Mechanical Fatigue Life Evaluation of Advanced Composites2024-26-04216/1/2024
Thermo-mechanical fatigue and natural aging due to environmental conditions are challenging to simulate in an actual test with advanced fiber-reinforced composites, where their fatigue and aging behavior are little understood. Predictive modeling of these processes is challenging. Thermal cyclic tests take a prohibitively long time, although the strain rate effect can be scaled well for accelerating the mechanical stress cycles. Glass fabric composites have important applications in pipes, aircraft, and spacecraft structures, including microwave transparent structures, impact-resistant parts of the wing, fuselage deck and many other load-bearing structures. Often additional additively manufactured features and coatings on glass fabric composites are employed for thermal and anti-corrosion insulations. In this paper, we employ a thermo-mechanical fatigue model based on an accelerated fatigue test and life prediction under hot-to-cold cycles. Thermo-mechanical strain-controlled stress evolution is modeled and tested for fitting fatigue model parameters over thermal cycles under different creep stresses. The model accounts for damage mechanics-based treatment of stiffness degradation up to a limiting inelastic strain up to endurance limit stress, and strength degradation in the process of damage to crack initiation. The strain evolution and stiffness degradation are monitored, and fatigue strength degradation behavior is predicted using the constitutive model. A scheme for remaining user life (RUL) prediction is developed and the scheme is validated using different thermo-mechanical cycles as compared to the data used for fitting the constitutive model parameters. This study limits the fatigue damage to crack initiation in simple flexure and temperature cycles for specific micro-damage coalescence to interlaminar fracture. To generalize the life prediction methodology, a scheme based on finite element stress analysis-based progressive damage methodology is employed, which can be employed for complex composite structures involving different complex damage mechanisms and final failure modes.
Kancherla, Kishore Babu, B S, Dakshayini, Raju, Benjamin, Roy Mahapatra, Debiprosad
The Effect of Excessive Thermo-Mechanical Stress on the Performance of High-Pressure Hose Assemblies Used under Flexing Motion2024-26-04276/1/2024
A lightweight high-pressure hose assembly consists of hose made with fabric braids and PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) tube crimped with metallic fittings. These hose assemblies are mainly used for aircraft landing gear application considering its high-pressure sustenance and better flexibility. The proposed study investigates the effect of thermo-mechanical stresses generated during cyclic soaking and flexibility testing at thermostatic subzero (-65°F) and high temperature (+275°F) on performance of high pressure- fabric braided hose assembly. This effect was further studied through hose tear-down to investigate the hose layer degradation and focused changes in inner PTFE tube. With an incremental exposure to cyclic temperature environment, a linear growth was observed for the micropores within PTFE.
Neve, Abhilash, Patil, Sandip
Assessing the Structural Feasibility and Recyclability of Flax/PLA Bio-Composites for Enhanced Sustainability2024-26-04076/1/2024
Bio-composites have gained significant attention within the aerospace industry due to their potential as a sustainable solution that addresses the demand for lightweight materials with reduced environmental impact. These materials blend natural fibers sourced from renewable origins, such as plant-based fibers, with polymer matrices to fabricate composite materials that exhibit desirable mechanical properties and environmental friendliness. The aerospace sector's growing interest in bio-composites originates from those composites’ capacity to mitigate the industry's carbon footprint and decrease dependence on finite resources. This study aims to investigate the suitability of utilizing plant-derived flax fabric/PLA (polylactic acid) matrix-based bio-composites in aerospace applications, as well as the recyclability potential of these composites in the circular manufacturing economy. The bio-composite laminate is produced through a compression molding process involving interleaved layers of PLA and flax fiber mats. We discuss the manufacturing technique, mechanical behavior, thermal characteristics properties of the bio-composite. A thorough comparison is drawn between these properties and those of similar bio-composites. Moreover, the study emphasizes the recycling of these bio-composites using mechanical milling, and their subsequent use as additives in the original fiber mat laminated composites. A comprehensive evaluation is conducted, contrasting the attributes of the original laminate with those of the laminate containing recycled additives. The outcomes of this study will contribute to understanding and assessing the sustainability of bio-based polymer applications. By examining the performance of flax/PLA bio-composites in aerospace composite material qualification settings and investigating their recyclability, this research reveals the viability as an eco-friendly alternative in the aerospace industry, aligning with the industry's ongoing efforts to adopt greener practices and materials.
B S, Dakshayini, Kancherla, Kishore Babu, Raju, Benjamin, Roy Mahapatra, Debiprosad
Manufacturing of Thermoplastic Composite Parts with Press Forming TechnologyF-0080-2024-13625/7/2024
Thermoplastic composites are serious competitor for classic epoxy composites. They have comparable properties to epoxy composites, but characterize much lower processing costs. There are several methods of manufacturing the components from thermoplastic composites. One of the most interesting method in terms of efficiency is thermoforming on a press. This technology allows to product of the aircraft parts such as: ribs, brackets, covers, stiffeners. Thermoplastic composites are resistant to most solvents such as grease, oil and aviation fuel. They are also non-flammable and heat-resistant. This all makes them suitable for use in aircraft as upholstery, casing or elements around the tank. PZL Mielec has been developing press thermoforming technologies since 2016 and is the owner of the several patents in this area.
Głodzik, Marcin, Wojtuszewski, Radosław, Farbaniec, Konrad, Sienicki, Jarosław, Banaś, Aleksander, Gałaczyński, Tomasz
‘Smart’ Coating Could turn Fabrics into Protective GearTBMG-506445/1/2024
A durable, copper-based coating developed by a team at Dartmouth University can be integrated into fabric to create responsive, reusable materials such as protective equipment, environmental sensors, and smart filters.
Art Meets Automotive: Design of a Curve-Adaptive Origami Gripper for Handling Textiles on Non-Planar Mold Surfaces2024-01-25754/9/2024
The handling of flexible components creates a unique problem set for pick and place automation within automotive production processes. Fabrics and woven textiles are examples of flexible components used in car interiors, for air bags, as liners and in carbon-fiber layups. These textiles differ greatly in geometry, featuring complex shapes and internal slits with varying material properties such as drape characteristics, crimp resistance, friction, and fiber weave. Being inherently flexible and deformable makes these materials difficult to handle with traditional rigid grippers. Current solutions employ adhesive, needle-based, and suction strategies, yet these systems prove a higher risk of leaving residue on the material, damaging the weave, or requiring complex assemblies. Pincer-style grippers are suitable for rigid components and offer strong gripping forces, yet inadvertently may damage the fabric, and introduce wrinkles / folded-over edges during the release process. Non-planar surfaces such as the curvature of a mold, introduce additional placement challenges. Thus, a contour-adapting end-effector able to manipulate textiles without damage is desired. This research explores the feasibility of a Miura-Origami fold for material handling. The geometric tessellation is to create a curve-fitting, self-collapsing gripper. Living hinge elements are integrated to achieve controlled compliance. Variants are built using a material extrusion additive manufacturing process. The design parameters are outlined, and a set of origami grippers are built for experimental testing. The compression forces and deflection are measured. These grippers are spring-like but exhibit some unique characteristics. More research needs to be performed to understand the merits and limitations of this gripper strategy.
Strelkova, Dora, Urbanic, Ruth Jill
Textile Circularity and the Sustainability Model of New MobilityEPR20240063/12/2024
The world is on a “take-make-waste,” linear-growth economic trajectory where products are bought, used, and then discarded in direct progression with little to no consideration for recycling or reuse. This unsustainable path now requires an urgent call to action for all sectors in the global society: circularity is a must to restore the health of the planet and people. However, carbon-rich textile waste could potentially become a next-generation feedstock, and the mobility sector has the capacity to mobilize ecologically minded designs, supply chains, financing mechanisms, consumer education, cross-sector activation, and more to capitalize on this “new source of carbon.” Activating textile circularity will be one of the biggest business opportunities to drive top- and bottom-line growth for the mobility industry. Textile Circularity and the Sustainability Model of New Mobility provides context and insights on why textiles—a term that not only includes plant-based and animal-based fibers, but plastics as well—are contributing to overflowing landfills, polluted waterways, compromised access to clean water, loss of biodiversity and deforestation, and more. Additionally, it gives an overview of the current state of textile circularity, notable policy and regulatory trends, and how to leverage capabilities of the mobility sector, especially in decarbonization. Click here to access the full SAE EDGETM Research Report portfolio.
Lee-Jeffs, Ann, Safi, Joanna
Experimental Studies on Mechanical and Failure Behaviour of Single Lap Joints of Woven Jute-Hemp Fabric Reinforced Polymeric Composite Laminates2024-01-19363/5/2024
In the aerospace industry, large aircrafts employ composite materials for making complex structures which not only reduces weight and cost but also reduces the number of joints. Irrespective of that joining of structures cannot be avoided and for that mechanical fasteners such as rivets and bolts are employed along with adhesive bonding. Further, in recent years natural fibers have been studied extensively for their numerous advantages and have already been made into several automotive applications. Keeping these current trends in mind an attempt is made to investigate the joining behavior of natural fiber composites experimentally. So in this study, the ultimate failure load, bearing strength and the dominating failure mode of jute-hemp fabric-reinforced polymeric composites joined using single and double-bolted configurations are studied. The polymeric composite laminates were successfully fabricated using resin infusion technique and test specimens were fabricated following ASTM D5961M-10 standard. The ultimate failure load for a double-bolted joint configuration was almost twice that of a single-bolted joint configuration. The failure analysis conducted using a scanning electron microscope revealed net tension as the main failure mode for both cases of bolted joints.
Koppad, Praveennath, Chinnakurli Suryanarayana, Ramesh, Reddy, Nagaraja, Sethuram, D
‘Smart Glove’ Boosts Hand MobilityTBMG-502023/1/2024
A new washable wireless smart textile technology has potential uses in virtual reality and American Sign Language.
Influence of Recycled Scrap Particles on Tensile Behavior of Additively Manufactured Polylactic Acid (PLA) Composites for Automotive Upholstery Applications2023-01-51512/23/2024
In the domain of Additive Manufacturing (AM), Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) hath flourished as a promising method for crafting complex geometric parts with a commendable degree of dimensional precision. The perception of recycling metal scrap particles obtained from machining operations unbound the scope of developing sustainable layered polymer composites with integral properties of metal particles. In this context, the present work is intended to investigate the tensile properties of Polylactic Acid (PLA), strengthened with fine particles of bronze scrap particles as reinforcement fabricated by FFF-based additive manufacturing technique. The composite specimens are manufactured as per ASTM standard with different combinations of build orientation, infill pattern, and no. of reinforcement layers. The orientation angles of 00, 300, and 600 are used for building the composite specimens with honeycomb, rectilinear, and grid infill patterns. 1, 2 and 3 layers of reinforcement stacking is made between PLA matrix while building the tensile specimens. The tensile test findings revealed that the rectilinear build pattern highly influences the tensile strength of the fabricated samples. Compared to pure PLA, the reduced trend of tensile strength is observed on reinforced PLA composites. The outcome of this research effort prompts the exploration of further advancements in enhancing PLA's tensile properties when reinforced with metal scrap particles. Further, this research provoked the development of PLA matrix composites through additive manufacturing techniques with metal scrap particle reinforcement to strengthen the polymer, emphasizing the prominence of achieving a robust interfacial bond between the matrix and the reinforcing phases.
SANGARAVADIVEL, P., DINESH, D., Babu, N., Dhinesh, S.K.
Effect of Stacking Sequence on Mechanical Properties of Bamboo/Bagasse Composite Fiber for Automobile Seat Cushions and Upholstery Application2024-01-50132/6/2024
Researchers have chosen to study natural fibers instead of synthetic fibers since low-cost and ecologically favorable materials are required. The present research concentrates on the mechanical characteristics of epoxy composites reinforced with bamboo and bagasse fibers. The hybrids were created using four different ratios of bamboo/bagasse fibers, then hand-laid up. The material characteristics of the generated composites, including tension, bending, impacts, and Shore D hardness measurements, were assessed. The scanning electron microscopy technique was used to study morphology. Three levels of bamboo and a core network of bamboo fibers in composites were assumed to generate superior qualities. The core layer of bamboo and an outer layer typically characterized by sugarcane composites have enhanced flexural strength and Shore D toughness because of the bamboo layer at the center. The results of the microstructural investigations showed no pores or cracks, which improved the bending and toughness properties.
Natrayan, L., Ashok, S. K., Kaliappan, Seeniappan, Kumar, Pankaj
Evaluation of Lightweight Cotton Textiles for Durable and Comfortable Automotive Interior Applications2024-01-50152/6/2024
In regions with hot and humid climatic conditions, lightweight cotton textiles such as lawns, are famous for clothing and being explored for use in automobile interiors. Specifically, there’s an interest in these fabrics for car seat covers, interior roof linings, and door trims. Textiles must balance weight and durability for automotive applications to ensure passenger comfort while withstanding regular wear and tear. This study assesses cotton fabrics’ wear and mechanical performance with densities between 40 and 60 g/m2, produced using yarn counts of 70, 60, and 40 Ne. The objective was to determine the optimal fabric parameters for creating automotive spare parts that are both durable and comfortable. Two production strategies were contrasted: coarser yarn counts with fewer warp and weft threads per inch and finer yarn counts with a higher thread density. Findings revealed that fabrics crafted from the coarser yarns, with more irregular warp and weft threads, demonstrated better light transmittance and tear strength, making them potential candidates for sustainable automobile spare parts.
Natrayan, L., Mohammed Ali, H., Mothilal, T., Reddy, Vinay
Conductive, Cotton-Based Fiber for Smart TextilesTBMG-499672/1/2024
A single strand of fiber has the flexibility of cotton and the electric conductivity of a polymer, called polyaniline. The newly developed material showed good potential for wearable e-textiles. Researchers tested the fibers with a system that powered an LED light and another that sensed ammonia gas.
A Soft Robotic Gripper Mimics a Woven StructureTBMG-4958412/1/2023
Utilizing soft, flexible materials such as cloth, paper, and silicone, soft robotic grippers is an essential device that acts like a robot’s hand to perform functions such as safely grasping and releasing objects. Unlike conventional rigid material grippers these are more flexible and safe. However, their low load capacity makes it difficult for them to lift heavy objects, and their poor grasping stability makes it easy to lose the object even under mild external impact.
Smart Wearable Fabrics Use Haptic InputTBMG-4919410/1/2023
Personal devices feed our sight and hearing virtually unlimited streams of information while leaving our sense of touch mostly … untouched.
Influence of droplets arrangement on an optically characterized GDL and correlation to water management2023-32-00709/29/2023
Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell (FC) presents itself as a promising technology in view of zero-tailpipe emission vehicles. In addition, the constant development of renewable energy sources will lead to an increase in green hydrogen availability, and thus completely eliminate emissions for devices that use H2 as an energy vector. However, PEM FCs are still far from being fully developed as a technology: thermal and water management are the main issues that researchers are studying through experiments and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. For the numerical approach, H2O removal models often consider a simplified flat surface, but the microgeometry of the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) has a leading role in determining the critical dimension for droplet detachment and how much resistance the surface poses to water sliding. The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of droplets number on a GDL. The GDL has been characterized through optical analysis (5 μm/pixel spatial resolution) and the key features of the interlaced structure has been determined by using an approach typical of the textile industry. Droplet size (diameter ranging from 200 to 600 μm) and reciprocal distance have been parametrized and their behavior has been observed under the effect of 10 m/s cross airflow in a closed PEM FC channel layout. A different texture has been generated with the aim of evaluating the influence of the microstructure on water removal rates.
Antetomaso, C., Merola, S. S., Irimescu, A., Vaglieco, B. M., Di Micco, S., Jannelli, E.
Experimental Assessment of Human and Crash Dummy Skin to Vehicle Air Bag Fabric Coefficients of Friction09-11-03-00149/18/2023
Oblique motor vehicle crashes can cause serious head or brain injuries due to contact with interior vehicle structures even with the deployment of air bags, as they are not yet completely successful in preventing traumatic brain injury. Rotational head velocity is strongly correlated to the risk of brain injury, and this head motion is potentially related to the tangential friction force developed during contact between the head and air bags. Although crash test dummy head skins are designed with appropriate mass properties and anthropometry to simulate the normal direction impact response of the human head, it is not known whether they accurately represent the frictional properties of human skin during air bag interaction. This study experimentally characterized the dynamic friction coefficient between human/dummy skins and air bag fabrics using a pin-on-disc tribometer. Human skin samples were harvested from five locations (left and right forehead, left and right cheek, and chin) from male and female postmortem human subjects (PMHSs); some samples had previously been frozen and some were fresh. Crash dummy head skin samples were obtained from Hybrid III, ES-2re, and THOR-50M 50th-percentile male anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) and were characterized in both chalked and unchalked conditions. Fabric samples were obtained from five different air bags spanning various vehicle manufacturers and interior mounting locations. Neither sex, linear speed, nor the harvested skin location on the head played a significant role on the dynamic friction between PMHS skin samples and air bag fabrics, while PMHS skin samples that had not been previously frozen had a higher coefficient of friction than those that had. Further, increasing normal load reduced the dynamic friction coefficient between PMHS skin samples and air bag fabrics. Unchalked ATD head skins exhibited significantly higher dynamic friction coefficients than PMHS skins for the air bag fabrics tested. The presence of a thin chalk layer on ATD skins reduced friction and produced dynamic friction coefficients with air bag fabrics that were not significantly different from those of PMHS skins; however, neither unchalked nor chalked ATD head skins differentiated the air bag fabric dynamic friction coefficients in the same pattern as the PMHS skin samples.
Noll, Scott, Dong, Sheng, Kang, Yun-Seok, Bolte, John, Stammen, Jason, Moorhouse, Kevin
An Innovative Method to Produce Soft, Recyclable Fibers for Smart TextilesTBMG-489299/1/2023
Drawing inspiration from how spiders spin silk to make webs, a team of researchers from the National University of Singapore, together with international collaborators, has developed an innovative method of producing soft fibers that possess three key properties (strong, stretchable, and electrically conductive), and at the same time can be easily reused to produce new fibers.
New Programmable Smart Fabric Responds to Temperature, ElectricityTBMG-486808/1/2023
A new smart material developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo is activated by both heat and electricity, making it the first ever to respond to two different stimuli.
Programmable Smart Fabric Responds to Temperature and ElectricityTBMG-483136/1/2023
A new smart material developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo is activated by both heat and electricity, making it the first ever to respond to two different stimuli.
A Holistic Comparison of a Trailing Edge Rib Demonstrator Made with Three Different PEEK Thermoplastic Composite Form Factors: Unidirectional, Fabric and BraidF-0079-2023-181015/16/2023
Lopez, Alfonso, Kariyawasam, Supun, Postera, Richard, Carrol, Brennan, Spangler, Joe, Seneviratne, Waruna, Leach, David, Wood, Billy
Test Method for Determining Resistance to Abrasion of Automotive Bodycloth, Vinyl, and Leather, and the Snagging of Automotive BodyclothJ948_202305 (Current)5/10/2023
These methods of test are applicable for determining the resistance to snagging and abrasion of automotive bodycloth, vinyl, and leather.
Textile and Flexible Plastics Committee
Light Weight Composite Structure Approach of Automotive Soft Top Construction2023-01-08764/11/2023
In an off-road vehicle, Vehicle Structure plays a major role in passenger safety, Aesthetics, Durability, through a validated construction of canopy structure. This structure is to maintain the shape of the vehicle and to support various loads acting on the vehicle. In present market a safe, Durable, Robust, Waterproof, Noise less, Light weight and cost-effective off-road vehicle will always be a delight for any customer. However, the current conventional way of Soft top vehicle structure use metal brackets and formed sheet parts to create a structure to retain the canopy shape in place. These conventional structures are often heavier and would have many demerits such as heavy weight, Corrosion, Risk of canopy tear due to metallic structure edges and inappropriate draining, water management. Considering this we replaced the heavy metal brackets in to blow molded plastic parts. The plastic parts helped us in significantly reduce weight yet retaining the structural integrity and strength. This also helped us in addressing the concerns posed by the conventional canopy structure and resulted in aesthetically superior and a well-groomed look of the shell from exterior. This paper briefs about light weight, aesthetic construction of blow molded canopy structure with good strength and less part cost & investment cost. By blow molded plastic parts total weight of vehicle gets reduces and this improves efficiency of vehicle.
Khairnar, Prashant Dattatray, Pradhan, Prabhudatta, Kakani, Phani Kumar, Bornare, Harshad, Sriperumbudur, Srivatsa
Electric Mobility and Technical Textile Necessity2023-01-08744/11/2023
E-mobility is creating more challenges and great opportunities for automotive textile industries to bring out new textiles for light weight, more aesthetic, better feel, sustainable and biomaterial to meet the customer perception. Textiles allows a more design freedom to in terms of construction, weaving and wrapping solutions. A hard rough plastic surface could be transferred into a more pleasant soft touch surface by a simple wrapping with textiles. The introduction of electric vehicle will convert the car as more silent as it replaces the engine by motor and battery mechanism. The more silent is the car, the more silent is the BSR behavior of the material. This work discloses of a polyester textile developed to meet automotive lightweight to strength requirements with its new nonwoven construction for seat insert and bolster application which demands for high breaking strength, abrasion resistance, stretch and set and soiling resistance. This textile also studied for thermal resistance and sound dampening and results were analyzed using DSC, TGA and DMA analysis techniques. This paper also demands the requirements of advanced textiles for future mobility.
Palaniappan, Elavarasan
The Influence of the Material Construction of Leatherette in Squeak Noise Control2023-01-00754/11/2023
PVC (polyvinylchloride) synthetic leather or called leatherette is being widely used for automotive interior applications for seat cover, gear boot, gap hider, steering wheel and roof liner due to their leather like feel and texture, flexibility, sewability, affordability, and wide design freedom. However, the leatherette construction such as top coating, backing fabric and fabric weaving pattern plays a critical role in the finished leatherette performance for the specific application. This study provides the influence of different coating material and different backing fabric in squeak behavior of gear boot PVC leatherette. The squeak behavior was studied by stick slip test as per automotive engineering requirements, and the response of these coating and fabric surface was measured in the form of Risk Priority Number (RPN).
Palaniappan, Elavarasan, Mohammed, Riyazuddin, Lewis, Edlin, Balaji, K V
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