Automated garment assembly and manufacturing simulation

Abstract

Presently, garment production is extremely personnel dependent and therefore cost intensive. Robotic 3D assembly offers very interesting possibilities and potentials for high-tech and high-quality garment manufacturing with improved quality, cost reduction and fast response to consumer market. The special robotic 3-dimensional (3D) sewing technology, researched and developed by Philipp Moll GmbH & Co, makes it possible for the first time to sew 3D seams automatically. Textile cut parts are placed onto the 3D mould. The special sewing machine is guided by an industrial robot along the spatial seam course similar to welding robots in automobile production. One important aim was the development of an adjustable mould, which can adapt to different sizes and shapes of garments. The concept of the adjustable mould for jackets is a special complex construction consisting of seven separate but also smartly connected columns, which are designed like a human spinal column with separate, moveable vertebras. The LEAPFROG vision, an innovative concept for garment manufacturing, comprises a holistic, general production-line from single-ply cutting, automatic transport to sewing processes with robotic 3D sewing and 2D sewing machines. © 2009 Springer London.