The Characterisation of the Static and Dynamic Drape of Fabrics

Abstract

This paper discusses and establishes the static and dynamic drape of fabrics as an aesthetic property. A new algorithm is introduced, which defines more precisely the drapability of a given fabric. Experimental results show that it is more accurate to describe the different types of fabric-drape performance by using a feature vector, and this is found to be in good agreement with subjective assessment. A computer-based vision system, the Static- and Dynamic-drape-measurement System (M3), was developed and made possible the application of the new algorithm to actual fabric measurement. The results show agreement between aesthetic judgement and subjective assessment, and consequently fabric drape is standardised into four drape grades, ranging from high to low. The M3 is able to relate fabric drape with mechanical properties, simulating intelligence or expert knowledge when property change is needed for achieving a required drape performance.