Combination of 3D printing and knitting: the loop stitch design and its effects on tensile strength and elongation at break

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explored the creation of 3D printing knit-based structures. Furthermore, the study investigated the relationship between the mechanical performance of these structures and the changes in loop stitch design and 3D printing material. Effects on the mechanical properties of the 3D printing loop structure were evaluated with respect to loop stitch, loop head, loop leg and loop foot. This study analysed the mean differences between the values of independent variables, namely, loop stitch and print material and the values of two dependent variables (i.e. tensile strength and elongation at break) using a multivariate analysis of variance. The results revealed that the mechanical properties of the loop structure vary significantly depending on the loop stitch shape and printing material. Tensile strength is mainly affected by material, whereas elongation property is significantly affected by loop stitch shape.