Mechanics of a Hybrid Circular Braid with an Elastic Core

A mathematical model based on four modes of operation is developed to predict the tensile response of a hybrid circular braid encompassing an elastic core. Model inputs include parameters characterizing the initial geometric configuration and ma terial properties of the hybrid. Output parameters are forces, strains, modes of operation, and hybrid geometry. The results show that a hybrid braid can display a unique syn ergism when the braid is in contact with the core but not yet locked, since its tensile response exceeds the sum of its components acting alone. While this analysis idealizes braid geometry and excludes explicit treatment of yam crimp, it incorporates primary influences including nonlinear yam tensile response, large deformations, yam failure, and varying hybrid deformation modes.