Comparison of Measured and Calculated Porosity Parameters of Woven Fabrics to Results Obtained with Image Analysis

Porosity, the measure of the open spaces within a fabric structure, is a decisive factor in the performance of textiles. It influences breathability, permeability to liquids or gases, and suitability for various industries such as apparel, medical, and technical textiles. This study compares classical porosity calculation methods with non-destructive image analysis for 24 woven fabric samples that differ in density and weave pattern. Factors such as fabric density, weave pattern, illumination conditions, magnification, and the influence of the Otsu and Yen threshold algorithms were considered. The multifactor ANOVA statistical analysis shows that fabric density and weave pattern significantly influence porosity, with illumination playing an important role, while the threshold algorithm has a minor influence. A strong correlation is found between the actual fabric porosity and the results of the image analysis, except for double-sided illumination (reflective and transmissive), where the correlation is weakest. This comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the reliability of different porosity assessment approaches, which is essential for applications in various textile industries.

Legibility of 3D printed typography at smaller sizes

The aim of the research was to investigate the usability and legibility of 3D printed typeface characters in smaller sizes. In the experimental investigation two software programs for letter modelling, three typefaces, three type sizes, two weight options, and two printing materials were tested. The samples were analysed visually and with image analysis. The legibility tests were conducted in laboratory conditions and testing chamber. The participants were asked to read pangrams and answer close-ended questions. The reading speed and understanding of the text were measured and analysed. It was found that the success of printing parts of letters, as well as their recognition and visual evaluation, is most often influenced by two analysed factors, i.e. weight option and type size, in all three typefaces. We established that the type size is statistically significant, and that the typographic tonal density is influenced by the typeface and the material used.Practitioner summary: The research presents the investigation of usability and legibility of 3D printed typefaces at smaller sizes. Five variables were analysed visually and with image analysis. Typographic tonal density, reading speed, and text comprehension were evaluated. The findings demonstrated that weight option, type size, and material influence the reading speed and text comprehension.HIGHLIGHTSFive different parameters were investigated regarding usability of 3D printed typeface.Legibility of different typefaces, weight options, and type sizes were tested.Typographic tonal density was evaluated with image analysis.Print quality of different materials using an FDM technology printer was evaluated.

Optical Assessment of Porosity Parameters in Transparent Woven Fabrics

This paper deals with the possibility of a fast and accurate assessment of the number, size, and distribution of pores in transparent woven fabrics based on light penetration. The procedure of analyzing the pore structure in the fabrics based on a digital image is presented in detail. Fabric pores are treated as image particles and analyzed with the Java-based image processing software ImageJ. The obtained data relate to the constructional parameters of the fabric that allow for further analysis, provide the possibility to compare structurally similar or different samples as well as double check the results generated by optical or other means. This paper describes work on plain and similar to plain weaves. The conducted analysis revealed several expected and some unexpected results. Among the former, we can list the range of pore sizes in the examined woven fabrics, the distribution of pores in regard to their similarity, and the effect of dents. Examples of the latter are the magnitude of the cumulative percentage of pores in regard to the weave and the degree to which they participate in the inter-yarn and inter-fiber pores.