Preliminary Investigations of Feasibility of Weaving Triaxial Fabrics (Doweave)

Abstract
Studies were carried out to determine the feasibility of weaving triaxial fabrics (Doweave) in tight, low-porosity con figurations, and to investigate the stability and isotropy of triaxially woven fabrics. Detailed analyses of yarn motions required in triaxial weaving cycles disclosed no fundamental problems to prevent the achievement of tight fabrics woven of fine yarns. A breadboard loom, assembled to produce samples, confirmed to a degree the analytic predictions of loom configuration precision required to yield quality triaxial fabrics. Guidelines were generated for extending weaving capa bilities for full-scale production.