Advanced finite-element modelling of a 32-panel soccer ball

摘要

The current paper details the development of a finite-element model of a manually stitched, textile reinforced 32-panel soccer ball used in elite competition. The model included material anisotropy, a stiffer region representative of the polyester fibre based stitching, and a latex bladder membrane which was pressurized through inflation. A stiffness proportional damping coefficient was included within the material model to describe kinetic energy loss characteristics. The model was validated through experimental impact testing at speeds representative of play. It was found that the combined effects of material anisotropy, panel stitching, and panel configuration had a profound effect on the impact characteristics of the ball.