CAD/CAM, Manufacturing

Question 1

Advantages of CAM?

Answer 1

• Undertake repetitive tasks rapidly, fewer errors
• 24/7 operation, no holidays sick pay etc
• Manufacturing tie reduced
• Costs more accurately calculated through consistent production
• Companies more likely to manage sudden change in demand
• Better waste management

Question 2

Disadvantages of CAM?

Answer 2

• High cost of buying/installation
• Competitive need to update
• Less human involvement
• Social problems, poor job satisfaction, reduced productivity, ‘machine minding’

Question 3

Benefits of computerised lay plans?

Answer 3

• Automatically fit shapes into most efficient position, minimising wastage
• Quicker than by hand, cheaper
• Programme patterned fabrics so aligned in design
• Programmed on grain line

Question 4

Benefits of computer controlled fabric spreading machines?

Answer 4

• Most accurate way to ensure even spread & no particular tensions
• Ensures pieces are cut the right size, not off bias and drape appropriately
• Less wasted money, cuts more likely to be accurate
• Increased production levels

Question 5

How are computerised machines/systems used in manufacture (fabric+garment)?

Answer 5

• Manufacturing fabric, weaving, knitting, jacquard automated knitting looms
• Dye process, colour matching, accurate reproduction in batches
• Fabric printing, Transfer, rotary, digital
• Transferring lay plans
• Fabric cutting, die cutters, laser, ultrasonic
• Applying finishes, calendaring, embossing
• Construction of garment, buttonholes, label sewers, accuracy of stitches
• Heat systems, finishing, pressing, steaming
• DEcorative, Embroidery
• JIT/Delivery systems
• EPOS systems
• Fabric overhead systems in factories

Question 6

How are different CAM processes used in manufacture of of garment?

Answer 6

• Pattern design systems, sizes, lay plan, simulation, design
• Machines for embroidery, design programmes stitches
• Specialised automated machines, darts, button holes, hem, seams
• Automatic conveyor systems, delivers work overhead as needed, monitors, records problems, motivates
• Steam dolly, skirts, dresses, trousers
• Storage carrier systems, hangers and movable rails so arrive ready to display
• Barcode system, ticketing, tagging, records sales through EPOS, helps with reorders, automatically low stocks

Question 7

Modern manufacturing technology/methods to help be environmentally friendly?

Answer 7

• Computers/automated machines, reduce waste/energy
• CAD, develop ideas using less paper
• Pattern drafting systems, store, revise patterns, sent direct, reducing paper
• Virtual prototyping, saves fabric and energy
• Computerised lay patterns, reduce fabric waste
• JIT, fewer unwanted products made
• Packaging and delivery, garments go directly to shop floor so no ironing
• Garment dyeing, basic garments if unpopular colours
• Recycled PET plastics, polyester manufacture
• Tencel, green fibres