An optimized design of compression sportswear fabric using numerical simulation and the response surface method

Abstract

Well-designed compression sportswear can be used for the enhancement of athletic performance and reduction of injury. The material and geometric properties of fabric for compression sportswear are vital in achieving compression effects. This study evaluated and optimized the performance of fabric using the design of experiment (DOE) methods, the response surface method (RSM) and the finite element (FE) model. The evaluation and optimization procedure consisted of three phases. The first phase involved developing the FE model of a fabric tube and cylinder, and validated it by compression experiments involving different fabrics. The second phase evaluated the FE prediction using a five-factor experimental design, namely, hyperelastic properties, thickness, density, friction, and tensile strain. The third and final phase was an optimization process using RSM based on the evaluation results. Findings show that the FE predictions approach closely the results of validation experiments. The nonlinear elastic material properties (hyperelastic properties) and shape dimensions (thickness and tensile strain) of fabric tube were found to be important design factors in influencing contact pressure, while the density of fabric and interface friction coefficient played less important roles. The optimal FE model was determined using RSM analysis. The statistically based FE model was found to be an effective approach for evaluating and optimizing the design parameters of fabric for compression sportswear. The results can be applied to make sportswear that has different compression effects at selected anatomical locations to enhance performance and reduce injuries.