A continuum constitutive model for the mechanical behavior of woven fabrics

We propose a new approach for developing continuum models for the mechanical behavior of woven fabrics in planar deformation. We generate a physically motivated continuum model that can both simulate existing fabrics and predict the behavior of novel fabrics based on the properties of the yarns and the weave. The approach relies on the selection of a geometric model for the fabric weave, coupled with constitutive models for the yarn behaviors. The fabric structural configuration is related to the macroscopic deformation through an energy minimization method, and is used to calculate the internal forces carried by the yarn families. The macroscopic stresses are determined from the internal forces using equilibrium arguments. Using this approach, we develop a model for plain weave ballistic fabrics, such as Kevlar®, based on a pin-joined beam geometry. We implement this model into the finite element code ABAQUS and simulate fabrics under different modes of deformation. We present comparisons between model predictions and experimental findings for quasi-static modes of in-plane loading.