A design method based on multi-factor coupling for stretch-induced morphing camouflage in knitted fabrics

Traditional camouflage performs poorly in complex urban environments due to its static and inflexible nature. This study introduces an innovative camouflage design method based on knitted fabrics, which use bidirectional stretchability to dynamically alter surface textures—without external energy input—through controlled mechanical deformation. By exploiting the inherent extensibility of knitting, the fabric disrupts the human silhouette across diverse scenarios. Environmental features were extracted using a ‘main and add-on elements classification method’ to guide texture design. Functional prototypes developed with plating stitches demonstrated distinct pattern-morphing behavior under stretching. Subjective evaluation under typical urban settings yielded a weighted score of 8.2/10, supported by objective metrics including a Structural Similarity Index of 0.7054 and an HSV brightness difference of 19.01%. This approach provides an energy-free, material-led solution for adaptive visual camouflage suitable for complex and dynamic environments.