Influences of stretch and friction characteristics of sportswear on the force exerted on a simulated body

Abstract

This study created a simulated body system consisting of a simple 3D-printed knee joint model equipped with high-sensitivity three-component force sensors. Several types of sportswear made from different materials were worn on the simulated body, and the forces exerted on the system during movement were measured. The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between the material properties and the forces acting on the simulated body from the sportswear. The results showed that (1) the friction coefficient of the material affects the longitudinal component of the force exerted on the simulated body, (2) Young's modulus along the longitudinal direction of the simulated body affects the longitudinal and radial components of the force, and (3) Young's modulus along the tangential direction of the simulated body affects the longitudinal and radial components of the force only in areas with longitudinal curvature.