| This thesis addresses the phenomenology of strand interaction in bi-axial non-embedded braided textile structures under uniaxial tension. The premise of this work is to develop novel structures which exhibit exceptionally high levels of toughness, transcending the shortcomings of current rope, belt, and cable performance under large strain-controlled conditions. The approach is best characterized as the development of novel behaviors through traditional braid manufacturing processes. Ipso facto, it is essential to characterize the behavioral mechanisms and morphology of these pragmatic rope structures, prior to the development of solutions to their shortcomings.; Accordingly, a generalized model is developed with the intent of characterizing and predicting the mechanical behavior of both traditional and novel structures. Width-wise lateral strand compaction tests were performed to generate constitutive material curves for use in analytical differential geometry models. Good agreement between model predictions and data generated from braid uniaxial tension tests indicate that lateral strand strain drives the global braid tensile response. |
