Q3: Textile testing mannekins

Question 1

Thermal manikins

Answer 1

Thermal manikins are used for the development of clothing systems with improved thermal properties.

Question 2

There are many types of manikin in use; two of the main ones are

Answer 2

“Newton” and “Walter”.

Question 3

“Newton”

Answer 3

“Newton” (Measurement Technology Northwest Company) is a multiseg- ment, fully jointed sweating manikin.

Question 4

“Walter”

Answer 4

“Walter” (Hong Kong Polytechnic University) is a fabric-based manikin. It simulates perspiration using a waterproof but moisture permeable fabric as a skin.

This holds water inside the “body” of the manikin, but allows moisture to pass out through the skin. “Walter’s” arms and legs can be motorised to simulate walking.

Question 5

The manikins are used to measure

Answer 5

thermal insulation and evaporation resistance, both vital properties in clothing comfort.

Question 6

The manikins can be placed inside:

Answer 6

The manikins can be placed inside a climate chamber in which certain climatic conditions can be controlled.

Question 7

Thermal manikins are used :

Answer 7

Thermal manikins are used in the development of combat uniforms, immersion suits, cold protective clothing, sleeping bags and active wear.

Question 8

Thermal manikins are also used in fire testing.

Answer 8

The manikin can be dressed in protective clothing worn by, say, fire-fighters or industrial workers. The dressed manikins are subjected to full flame envelopment for a chosen length of time. A significant outcome of the test is the prediction of burn injuries.