CAD/CAM Algorithms for 3D Woven Multilayer Textile Structures

This paper proposes new algorithms for the computeraideddesign and manufacture (CAD/CAM) of 3D woven multi-layertextile structures. Existing commercial CAD/CAM systems are oftenrestricted to the design and manufacture of 2D weaves. ThoseCAD/CAM systems that do support the design and manufacture of3D multi-layer weaves are often limited to manual editing of designpaper grids on the computer display and weave retrieval from storedarchives. This complex design activity is time-consuming, tediousand error-prone and requires considerable experience and skill of atechnical weaver. Recent research reported in the literature hasaddressed some of the shortcomings of commercial 3D multi-layerweave CAD/CAM systems. However, earlier research results haveshown the need for further work on weave specification, weavegeneration, yarn path editing and layer binding. Analysis of 3Dmulti-layer weaves in this research has led to the design anddevelopment of efficient and robust algorithms for the CAD/CAM of3D woven multi-layer textile structures. The resulting algorithmicallygenerated weave designs can be used as a basis for lifting plans thatcan be loaded onto looms equipped with electronic sheddingmechanisms for the CAM of 3D woven multi-layer textile structures.