Optimization of bagged denim fabric behaviors using the genetic algorithms and the ant colony optimization methods

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to optimize the frictional input parameters related to the yarn and woven fabric samples. Indeed, using metaheuristic techniques for optimization, it helps to attempt the best quality appearance of garment, by analysing their effects and relationships with the bagging behaviour of tested fabrics before and after bagging test. Using metaheuristic techniques allows us to select widely the minimal residual bagging properties and the optimized inputs to adjust them for this goal. Design/methodology/approach – The metaheuristic methods were applied and discussed. Hence, the genetic algorithms (GA) and ant colony optimization (ACO) technique results are compared to select the best residual bagging behaviour and their correspondent parameters. The statistical analysis steps were implemented using Taguchi experimental design thanks to Minitab 14 software. The modelling methodology analysed in this paper deals with the linear regression method application and analysis to prepare to the optimization steps. Findings – The regression results are essential for evaluate the effectiveness of the relationships founded between inputs and outputs parameters and for their optimizations in the design of interest. Practical implications – This study is interesting for denim consumers and industrial applications during long and repetitive uses. Undoubtedly, the denim garments remained the largely used and consumed, hence, this particularity proves the necessity to study it in order to optimize the bagging phenomenon which occurs as function of number of uses. Although it is fashionable to have bagging, the denim fabric remains, in contrast with the worsted ones, the most popular fabric to produce garments. Moreover, regarding this characteristic, the large uses and the acceptable value of denim fabrics, their aesthetic appearance behaviour due to bagging phenomenon can be analysed and optimized accurately because compared to worsted fabrics, they have a high value and the repetitive tests to investigate widely bagged zones can fall the industrial. The paper has practical implications in the clothing appearance and other textile industry, especially in the weaving process when friction forms (yarn-to-yarn, yarn-to-metal frictions) and stresses are drastic. This can help to understand why residual bagging behaviour remained after garment uses due to the internal stress and excessive extensions. Originality/value – Until now, there is no work dealing with the optimization of bagging behaviour using metaheuristic techniques. Indeed, all investigations are focused on the evaluation and theoretical modelling based on the multi linear regression analysis. It is notable that the metaheuristic techniques such as ACO and GA are used to optimize some difficult problems but not yet in the textile field excepting some studies using the GA. Besides, there is no sufficiently information to evaluate, predict and optimize the effect of the yarn-to-yarn friction as well as metal-to-yarn one on the residual bagging behaviour. Several and different denim fabrics within their different characteristics are investigated to widen the experimental analysis and thus to generalize the results in the experimental design of interest.