A theory for nonlinear soft webs

Abstract

In this paper, a fundamental theory for deformable webs not resisting any compressive membrane forces is developed through a direct derivation on the deformed configuration. In order to better describe the deformable webs, the classification of deformable webs is presented. A theory for the non-continuum elastic network webs consisting of many deformable cables is presented from the deformable cable theory, and then a theory for fabric deformable webs without relative sliding is developed as well. Finally, a nonlinear theory for continuous deformable webs is presented on the deformed configuration. The local criteria for the existence of such deformable webs are presented through the definitions, and such criteria are very significant for the wrinkling stability of the deformable webs. A deformable web possessing the local wrinkling is an unsolved problem in numerical computations. The theory for fabric webs with relative motions needs to be further developed. Herein the fundamental theory for deformable webs is presented only, and numerical examples will be presented in sequel. Such a theory of deformable webs can be applied to textile or other soft materials and bio-membranes.