The goal of this paper was to investigate the influence of three different fabric thread densities per weft (10, 17, and 25 cm −1 ) as well as three different linear densities of weft threads (20, 30, and 50 Tex) on the seam strength of cotton fabrics. When measuring seam strength, the values of the F – ε curve were monitored. In this, a uniform increase in force is observed in all samples up to a certain point. After that point, the force suddenly begins to decrease for a while. Then, the same force begins to increase again. That part of the curve at the point where the force begins to decrease is defined in this paper as seam yielding. Therefore, it is concluded that the seam at this point is significantly damaged in structure. The results obtained show that the values of seam strength, for all samples, increase with increasing: stitch density, weft thread density, and weft linear density. It is concluded that the average yield force in samples B decreases by 21.54% and by 32.94% in samples C, compared to the average yield force values of samples A. The average yield force in samples E decreases by 23.24% and that in samples F decreases by 37.92% compared to the average yield force values of samples D. The average yield force in samples H decreases by 19.87% and in samples I it decreases by 24.92% compared to the average yield force values of samples G. The results obtained show that weft yarns with a larger cross-section more intensively resist thread yielding in the seam. Defining these parameters represents a significant contribution for manufacturers of quality clothing because it is possible to project in advance the intensities of forces to which seams in clothing can be subjected to without impairing their quality.
This paper explores cost-effective solutions for automated guided vehicle (AGV) through the design and implementation of a low-cost, hoverboard-based line-following AGV tailored for textile manufacturing environments, specifically within sewing plants. The designed AGV leverages the capability of a commercial hoverboard as its mobility platform, significantly reducing development costs while maintaining effective operational performance. Utilizing affordable sensors such as infrared line detectors and ultrasonic sensors, the AGV autonomously navigates pre-defined pathways marked on the factory floor. Its primary function is transporting materials such as fabric bundles and partially or finished products between workstations, addressing common logistical challenges in dynamic and labor-intensive textile production settings. The system is designed for easy integration with both existing plant layouts and information and communication environment, requiring minimal infrastructural changes. Field testing demonstrated the AGV’s reliability, maneuverability, and responsiveness in real-world sewing plant conditions. The proposed solution underscores the potential of retrofitting existing consumer electronics for industrial automation, offering a scalable and economically viable alternative for small- to medium-sized textile enterprises seeking to enhance productivity and workflow efficiency.
The qualitative characteristics of T-shirts made of 100% cotton and 95% cotton and 5% elastane were investigated before and after 20, 40 and 60 cycles of washing with commercial detergents. The results of the experimental tests were approximated by a nonlinear model of data fitting, which is in the form of a 9th degree polynomial. This defines the deformation characteristics, which can be used to predict the changes that occur within the structure of the knitwear during stress. The results obtained make it possible to pre-design the intensities of forces to which polo shirts can be subjected without compromising their quality. The results also state that T-shirts with elastane have 12% higher values of bursting strength and higher values of forces at the limit of elasticity compared to pure cotton T-shirts. Cotton T-shirts have 21% higher air permeability and 10% higher water vapor permeability. Cotton T-shirts with elastane have a higher surface mass and stitch density per cm-2 compared to pure cotton T-shirts. Paper show the qualitative changes of polo shirts during the six-month maintenance cycle and their deformation characteristics. These findings offer valuable insights into the longevity of polo shirts, potentially guiding manufacturers in designing more durable work uniforms.
The mechanical performance of sewn seams is commonly evaluated using parameters such as seam strength and seam efficiency, which primarily describe the behavior of the seam at ultimate failure. However, these parameters provide only limited information about the initiation of structural deterioration that precedes rupture. An operational definition of the Seam Yielding Point (SYP) is proposed as an experimentally identifiable indicator of the onset of seam degradation during tensile loading. Nine woven fabric variants differing in structural characteristics were sewn using four polyester sewing threads with different linear densities. Seam tensile tests were performed according to the relevant international standard, while force–elongation curves were continuously recorded. The SYP was identified as the first local decrease in force observed on the force–elongation curve. Photographic documentation was used only for qualitative interpretation of the deformation process. The experimental results showed that the proposed SYP could be consistently identified in all tested specimens prior to ultimate seam failure. The corresponding yielding force and elongation depended on both the sewing thread properties and the fabric structure. In addition to conventional seam strength measurements, the proposed approach provides valuable information regarding the initiation of irreversible structural changes within the seam. Overall, the proposed operational definition of the SYP represents a useful complementary parameter for evaluating seam mechanical behavior and contributes to a more comprehensive assessment of seam performance.
The paper emphasizes that the life cycle and production process of an article of clothing includes a large number of stages such as: production of raw materials and fibers; production of fabrics, knitwear, non-woven textiles, etc.; design; tailoring, sewing and finishing of clothes; distribution; retail; phase of use and disposal of clothing-recycling or disposal. All this leads to the textile industry creating tens of millions of tons of textile waste annually on a global scale. Therefore, the need to find a solution to the complex production process of clothes in order to reduce the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment is becoming more and more important. Various strategies for solving the problem of textile waste are also described. In the end, the conclusion is drawn that fashion companies pay more and more attention to the improvement of the products themselves as well as to the extension of the lifespan of the products themselves. For a typical textile product, 7 characteristic life stages through which it passes are described: concept and design stages, engineering stages, production stages, distribution and application stages, use and service activities (dry cleaning and washing), second life cycle stages (reuse) and end-of-cycle stages (recycling or disposal).
The goal of this work was to examine the influence of stitch density and different linear density of weft threads (20, 30 and 50 tex) on the seam strength of cotton fabrics. The following stitch densities were tested: 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 stitches/cm. For seam strength testing, fabric samples were prepared according to the provisions of the ISO 13935-1 standard. The samples were sewn in the warp and weft directions with the selected seam type marked 1.01.01/301. The obtained results show that the seam strength values, for all samples, increase with increasing stitch density and linear density of the thread per weft. From the results, it can be concluded that denser stitches strengthen the seam structure itself. This makes the seams more resistant to external forces. The results obtained show that weft yarns, with a larger cross-section, more intensively resist the tearing forces acting on them in the seams. Also, the results of the research show that the warp yarn, which had a larger number of twists, more intensively resists the tearing forces acting on them in the seams. Defining these parameters represents a significant contribution for manufacturers of quality clothing. Knowing this data, it is possible to project in advance the intensity of the forces to which the seams may be exposed in clothing, without reducing their quality.