Use of computers in the textile industry cf

Computers are very useful in the. design and manufacture of textile Computers are very useful in the design and manufacture of textile products. Two computer systems which are used widely in the textile industry are: CAD and CAM

What exactly is CAD and CAM ??!

CAD = Computer Aided Design CAD is computer software which is used to design textile products using the computer.

Computer aided design involves designing products on a computer, rather than using the traditional methods of designing and drawing on paper. CAD

Some of the things CAD is used for Draw your initial design Draw out the pattern pieces for your product. Work out how best to lay out your pattern pieces on the material to minimise waste. Making patterns Modelling designs in 3D Design Logos, stencils, fabric patterns and transfers.

The advantages of CAD (Computer aided design) Changes and adjustments to your design can be made quickly and accurately without having to redraw. Designs can be sent electronically to a manufacture or client, very quickly. (Via Email) Incredibly accurate resulting in a high quality end product. Different designs can be modelled on screen and then compared.

A few ways in which CAD can be used;- 3D modelling software- this allows you to design a product in 3D, a visual prototype. 2D paint software- allows you to design logos and repeat patterns and experiment with different colours Scanners- allows you to scan fabrics which can be applied to a 3D model. Or scan a design onto a computer so it can be manipulated and adjusted to suit your need. 2D paint software Scanning

CAM = Computer Aided Manufacture CAM is machinery which is linked with a computer (usually has CAD installed on it). CAM is used to make the textile products.

Computer aided manufacture involves using computers to help maintain control in the making of products. Cam also enables work to be carried out at great speed, with accuracy CAM

Some of the things CAM is used for Cutting and assembling pattern pieces Sewing together pattern pieces Print designs/colours onto fabric Embroider designs and logos onto material. Apply chemical finishes to fabrics. Pressing (ironing) the finished product.

The advantages of CAM (Computer aided manufacture) These machines do not require workers to work them- just a few staff to monitor the work. Work is completed at high speeds. (These machines are usually very strong and powerful). Costs are reduced due to less workers needed, and time efficiency. Incredibly accurate resulting in a high quality end product. Large numbers of identical products can be manufactured quickly and accurately.

A few ways in which CAM can be used;- Computerised sewing machines- a complicated logo or motif can be embroidered on to a product. Computerised fabric printers- computers can be used to produce large amounts of printed fabric. For example automated screen printing, this ensures quality and accuracy. Drawing patterns and layplans- computers allow you to adjust patterns. Computers also plan the most economical way inwhich to lay the pattern pieces on the fabric. Laser cutters- Computers are used to control lasers which cut out fabric in multiple layers. CNC technology Digital printing Lay planning Laser cutter

Disadvantages of CAD/CAM The cost of buying the software and hardware is quite high. Workers need training in how to use CAD/CAM. Training can be expensive. Computer viruses and power cuts etc can destroy work.