A new method of complicated folded fabric modeling

In order to resolve the complicated folded fabric modeling problem and establish the high quality finite element model for fabric working simulation in aviation or aerospace area, the Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) method based on Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) coupling theory was applied for modeling in this paper. An expanded three-dimensional fabric model (a special airbag) was divided into several segments. Then the folded state of each was calculated based on this numerical method. At last, the completely folded finite element model was obtained. This method can effectively simulate the complicated and natural folds, and the quality of model is very high which can greatly improve the success rate of fabric working process simulation. This method also can be guidance for other kinds of folded fabric modeling.