Mechanics of Pressurized Plain-Woven Fabric Structures
Abstract
Pressurized fabric tubes, pressure-stabilized beams (known as air beams), and air-inflated structures are all considered to be valuable technologies for use in lightweight, rapidly deployable systems. The design optimization of inflated structures, in particular, depends on a thorough understanding of woven-fabric mechanics. With this in mind, the bending response of woven pressure-stabilized beams were experimentally tested and analytically investigated. Additionally, the micromechanical effects of interacting tows were examined through the use of finite-element models containing contact surfaces and nonlinear slip/stick conditions. Local unit-cell models consisting of pairs of woven tows were created to characterize the effective constitutive relations. Material properties from the unit-cell models were then used with a global continuum model subjected to four-point flexure. An experimental setup was designed and manufactured for the testing of Vectran and polyethylene naphthalate air beams, with mid-span beam deflections measured as functions of inflation pressure and bending load. Plots of the elastic and shear moduli with respect to the pressure and coefficient of friction were generated. It was determined that the effective elastic and shear moduli were functions of inflation pressure, the material in use, and the geometry of the weave. It was further shown that pneumatic or pressurized fabric structures differ fundamentally from conventional metallic structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA411614
Entities
People
- Ali M. Sadegh
- Matthew E. Johnson
- Paul V. Cavallaro
Organizations
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center