Novel observation technique for contact condition of fabric

An observation technique is developed to provide a fundamental understanding of the surface contact condition between the human body and clothes. As a substitute for the body, transparent silicone rubber is used. The contact condition between the rubber and fabric is observed through the rubber using photomicrography. The method visualizes contact condition changes for different contact pressures and fabric structures. Using the relationship between the contact condition and the pressure, it is useful to estimate the two-dimensional distribution of contact pressure, which is important in clothing comfort.