Software that determines functional performance of fabrics, garments developed

A comprehensive computational software and engineering database that aids in the design of functional fabrics and apparel has been developed by the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel and Hong Kong Polytechnic University's Textile Bioengineering Research Center or TBRC, according to a Business Weekly report.

With the platform, experts at the TBRC can analyze the functional performance of each fabric and clothing with respect to specific combinations of sport activities and external environments. They were also able to design performance-enhancing sports and workwear using the software.

The team did extensive research on sports physiology and used multiscale computations to design functional textiles and garments. This included mapping out body heat and moisture distribution to determine the portion of the garment that needs to release more heat or draws more sweat. The team also took into consideration biomechanical aspects and applied optimal level of support and compression on key muscles for improving blood circulation for longer stamina and faster recovery.

The team currently boasts a series of custom-designed sports apparel, firefighter uniforms and construction workwear that can enhance performance, reduce thermal stress and minimize the risk of injury. These are sold in more than 30 countries worldwide.

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