Topology Based Models of Tubular and Flat Braided Structures

The geometry of the tubular and flat braided structures is predictable using parametrical relations between the carrier arrangement, machine configuration and some yarn parameters. This chapter presents generalized topological algorithm for calculation of the interlacing points of tubular and flat braids with arbitrary floating length and yarns in a group. Some drawbacks of the algorithm for larger or smaller than 45\(^\circ \) braiding angles and for multiple yarns in a group are presented and possible solutions for these cases are discussed. Placement of the yarns in triaxial braids and the yarn configurations at different types of flat braid structures are analyzed and included in the models.