The document discusses computer numerical control (CNC) fabric cutting machines. It provides details on how CNC uses numerical values fed into the machine from a storage device to control movements. This allows for precise and predictable cutting of fabrics. Key components of CNC fabric cutters discussed include the bristle bed, vacuum system, perforated paper, and G-code programming. Advantages listed are high speeds, accuracy, and ability to cut complex patterns efficiently. Challenges include high initial costs and needing skilled operators. Popular brands of CNC cutters mentioned are Gerber, Eastman, Kuris, and Topcut Bullmer.

1. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY,
GANDHINAGAR
Under The Guidance of-
Pavan Godiawala
Submitted By:
SUNIDHI KUMARI
( DFT-4)
Sewn Products , Machines and Equipment's
1
Computer Numerically Controlled
Fabric Cutting Machine

2.  Computer Numerical Control may be
considered to be a means of operating a
machine through the use of discrete
numerical values fed into the machine ,
where the required ‘input’ technical
information is stored on a kind of input
media such as floppy disk, hard disk, CD
ROM, DVD, USB flash drive, or RAM card etc.
 The machine follows a predetermined speeds
necessary to produce a workpiece of the
right shape and size and thus according to
completely predictable results.

3.  Easier to program;
 Easy storage of existing programs;
 Easy to change a program
 Avoids human errors
 NC machines are safer to operate
 Complex geometry is produced as cheaply as
simple ones
 Usually generates closer tolerances than
manual machines

5.  This methods provides the most accurate
possible cutting fabric , at high speed.
 It is a typical computer system having a table
with a cutting surface consisting of nylon bristles
which support the fabric lays but are flexible
enough to permit penetration and movement of
the knife blade which is supported only on the
top. The bristles also allow the passage of air
through the table to create a vacuum, reducing
the height of the lay and holding it in place .
 It is ideal for placing notches in a lay and has a
depth adjustment guide to stop you notching too
deeply. It has a depth capacity of 200mm and
selectable temperatures of 300, 400 or 500
degree C.

6.  Input Device
 Machine Control Unit
 Machine Tool
 Driving System
 Feedback System
 Display Unit

8. Bristle bed
 The bristles are made with a special macro-molecule nylon
material which is soft enough to avoid being cut by the
knife, while at the same time lasting 30% longer than that
of bristles used in other cutters in the industry.
 These bristles allow the passage of air through the table to
create a vacuum, reducing the height of lay and holding it
in place.
 The bristle surface on the table allows knife blade to
penetrate surface without damage.

9.  Bristle cutting surface
automatically conveys
material from spreading
table through cutter and
after cutting is done, the
conveyor takes off cut
panels into bundling area.
 The bristles are also denser
than on competing systems,
eliminating the need for
underlay paper on most
fabrics.
GERBER BRISTLE SQUARE® cutting surface
The bristle bed is made of bristle
blocks which are anywhere between
2”x2” to 4”x4”.

10.  Vacuum system is required to hold the lay in place and
reduce its height. So, it holds the layers while the knife
is cutting.
 There are three types of vacuum systems, depending
upon the manufacturer:
1. TUB VACUUM : Tub suction applies equal amount of
suction overall the cutting area. Integrated vacuum
system holds materials securely in place for effective
and accurate cutting.

11. 2. LOCALIZED VACUUM:
Localized vacuum is used for creating suction only at areas
surrounding the blade and not the entire cutting area. Integrated
"intelligent" zoned vacuum system holds down the lay at cutting
location. Vacuum exhaust stack recycles heated air.
3. PLY SENSING VACUUM:
This is a very efficient and power saving system of creating
vacuum in the cutting area. Amount of vacuum generated depends
upon the number of fabric layers. Once fabric plies are placed on
the cutting table and vacuum generation is started, sensors detect
height of the lay and generate only the amount of vacuum
sufficient for holding the layers. This way energy consumption is
reduced to a large amount in cases where length and of plies is
lesser than the cutting dimensions.

12.  A sheet of airtight
polyethylene covers the
top of the ply which
assists the creation of a
vacuum & allows
significant compression of
the lay. It is done in order
to prevent lateral air flow
from both the ends.
 The re-sealer is attached
to the cutting beam at a
particular angle and does
not go up or down at the
beam.

13. Role of perforated paper
Before transferring the fabric plies on
the cutting table , a sheet of perforated
paper is spread. This paper is laid so
that the lay can be moved on the
cutting table without any distortion in
the lay. This paper is perforated to
enable vacuum creation on the cutting
area for compressing the lay.
Role of laying marker
 Marker is laid on the top ply to help in
the process of bundling after cutting.
Marker laid helps in the identification
of bundles of pieces by their size, style
and other specific details.
Perforated paper

14. Order of cutting parts
If there is a small part between two
large parts, then it must be cut prior
to either of the big parts in order to
prevent any loss of vacuum created by
cut lines and thus a support wall helps
in getting better quality.
Common line cutting
There are many common lines in the
marker and CNC can’t see the whole
marker as it only deals with one piece
at a time. So a gap of 1/8 th of an inch
is added to avoid quality problems. But
it leads to fabric wastage and time
loss.

15.  The time interval of blade sharpening is
adjustable according to the variation of
fabric textures, allowing the blades to last
longer after each cut.
 The Knife Control Plate has anti-static
properties - unique to the cutter - which
means that all the consumable materials
need no separate anti-static treatment.
 The Grinding Stones are made with diamond
powder, increasing the life of the stones by
wearing down at a slower rate.

16.  Sealed Bristle Vacuum Box prevents air escape
eliminating unnecessary waste of power from the
vacuum pump.
 Vacuum strength can be set at seven different
levels, maintaining the optimum suction power
depending on materials and number of layers
being cut. Eliminates the need to operate the
vacuum at maximum capacity if not needed.
 Plastic Film re-covers the fabric simultaneously
while cutting to prevent the air leaking from the
gaps between the cut pieces.

17.  Cutting speed varies from one fabric to the other.
 For densely woven fabrics (like denim), the speed required
for cutting is more and vice versa.
 Knits can be cut at an average speed of 2,500 rpm while 14
oz. denim may require 7500 rpm to cut it.
 Some cutters also have a liquid silicon system with cooling
device set up to at the top of the knife to make sure that
the heat is not generated and if it does the heat never
reaches the top of the knife.
 Operators can easily adjust cut speed and knife speed
according to the type of material being cut to maximize
throughput.
 Overall speed of cutting fabric is generally 5 to 12 m/min.

18.  Windows operating system
 Operator guide with plausibility control and fault diagnoses
 Automatic adaptation of inclined ply position to marker
 Elimination of common cut-lines
 Automatic chain up of markers
 Application for remote-service
G Code
 The "instructions" read by CNC machines are usually a human
readable format called G-Code. The machine is set up with a base
unit, like inch or mm, and a command of G01 X500 Y200 Z100 on a
metric mm setup tells the machine it needs to move.
 Example: 500 units on the X axis and 200 units on the Y axis and 100
on z axis.

19. Programming consists of a series of instructions in form of letter
codes.
Preparatory Codes:
 G codes-Initial machining setup and establishing operating
conditions
 N codes-specify program line number to be executed by the
MCU
 Axis Codes: X,Y,Z -Used to specify motion of the slide along X,
Y, Z direction
 Feed and Speed Codes: F and S-Specify feed and spindle speed
 Miscellaneous codes –M codes For coolant control and other
activities.

20.  Reversible bristle conveyor
 X- and Y-axis driven by linear-modules
 Permanent-magnet-motor-drives for all axes
 Parameter driven adjustable vacuum
 Integrated sound absorber for exhaust
 Integrated cleaning of the bristles
 Sharpening device
 Automatic knife-frequency-dependent oil dosage
 Industrial PC on an actual performance level with
flat screen
 Integrated high performance vacuum turbine, 15 kW
 Standard working widths: 1600/1800/2000/2200 mm

21.  Flexibility of operation is improved, as is the ability to produce
complex shapes with good dimensional accuracy, repeatability,
reduced scrap loss, and high production rates.
 Machine adjustments are easy to make with microcomputers.
 More operations can be performed with each setup, and less
lead time for setup and machining is required compared to
conventional methods.
 Design changes are facilitated, and inventory is reduced.
 Programs can be prepared rapidly and can be recalled at any
time utilizing microprocessors. Less paperwork is involved.
 Faster prototype production is possible.
 Required operator skill is less than that for a qualified
machinist, and the operator has more time to attend to other
tasks in the work area.

22.  Volume of production is very high.
 Less paper work, faster prototype production,
reduction in lead times.
 Improved quality and accuracy of
manufactured parts
 Stabilized manufacturing costs.
 CNC machines can be updated by improving the
software used to drive the machines.
 One operator can run two or more machine at
a time hence reduces the labour cost.
 Shorter cycle time.
 Just in time manufacture.
 An automatic material handling.
 Lesser floor space.
 Increased operational safety.

23. 1)Higher investment cost :
-The machine is expensive. High machine utilization is essential in
order to get reasonable return on the investment.
2)Higher maintenance cost :
-The technology used in the CNC machine is to be more complex as
compared to the general equipment so it requires high maintenance
cost.
3)Skilled CNC operator is required :
-Part programming and CNC operation as well as maintenance
requires the skilled operator to overcome these problems.
4)Air conditioned place are required for installation of the machines.
5)Unsuitable for long run applications.

24.  GERBER
 Eastman (raptor)
 Kuris (texcut)
 Topcut bullmer(german)
 TukaTech (TukaCut)

26.  Knife Intelligence Plus features powerful new
algorithms to predict, sense, and correct knife
deflection during the cutting process, ensuring
superior accuracy and quality of holes.
 Digitally-controlled Convey Under Vacuum
maintains material stability to ensure cut part
accuracy bite to bite.
 Intuitive touch screen interface provides
ready access to setup and job information,
ensuring repeatability of accurately cut parts.
 Enhanced knife guide design creates a more
rigid and repeatable knife path, maximizing
knife positional accuracy.
 Automatic knife sharpening feature assures a
sharp knife for complete and accurately cut
parts.

27.  CutWorks® ToolPath software automates the
process of selecting an intelligent cut path to
maximize throughput and part quality.
 The Quick Change Drill decreases time required for
set-up and manual bit changeouts. When a bit
needs to be replaced, it takes seconds instead of
minutes and no tools are necessary.
 Holes 14 mm and larger can be cut instead of
drilled, which is 5-10% faster, and bit changes are
reduced or eliminated.
 The knife cooler/cleaner reduces fusing between
parts, extends the knife’s operating life, and keeps
the cutting head components clean.
 The conveyor is mounted on durable roller bearings
to reduce friction, saving energy during
conveyance.
 Powerful reporting capabilities make it easy to
monitor throughput and meet customer information
and vendor compliance requirements.

29.  PC-based software in Windows environment
 Ability to import most standard data
formats
 Display of cut data geometry on screen
- Preview geometric data for error
prevention
- Preview piece cutting sequence
- Display cut pieces as cutting progresses
•Preloaded with library of expert setup files
providing initial Knowledge-Base
•Storage of cutting setup parameter files
for future use
 Automatic knife re-sharpening maintains
cutting efficiency
 Automatic power conservation mode
 Dimensions
•Standard machine
- 2.34 x 4.37 m (92 x 172 in)
 Compressed Air-6.8 bar

31.  Reciprocating knife technology provides precise
vertical stroke cutting
 Cutting up to 3 in. (7.5 cm) of compressed
material
 Low pressure, light-touch sharpening unit.
Sharpening can be adjusted to user defined
angle.
 Intellicut™ knife control software ensures
quality cuts from top to bottom ply
 Optional high-speed-single or dual pneumatic
drill. Optional vacuum for drill debris
 Encapsulated air chiller directs air flow onto
blade and lowers guides with maximum cooling
 Easy access to knife system and assembly parts
simplifies daily maintenance procedures

32. Width 78 in., other sizes available (2.0
m)
Length 8.2 ft. (2.5 m)
Drive System Dual-X Axis, Y-Axis & Theta Axis.
Pneumatic 90 psi (6.2 bars)
Maximum Cutting Speed Up to 40 in./sec (Up to 60m/min)
Maximum Acceleration 0.3g
Compressed Air Consumption 21 CFM
Sound Level <76 dB(A)
Operating Temperature 55-100 deg F (12-37 deg C)

33.  Eastman’s EasiHold dynamic
vacuum compressor allows
users to cut lofted materials
, such as fiberfill and foam,
with unparalleled speed and
ease. EasiHold’s vacuum
apparatus uses a tough,
transparent plastic to hold
down porous and thick
fabrics.
 The plastic curtain overlay
curtain is never cut ,
eliminating consumable
waste.

34.  Eastman’s EasiPull increases
throughput by streamlining
spreading
 It is a perfect attachment
for a longer or wider cutting
table.
 Easipull utilises a pneumatic
controlled gripper bar to pull
material from the end of the
table to the exact length
needed for each cut.

35.  It offers-
 Sound reduction
 Conceals under-table plumbing,the blower and cabling
 Flame retardant
 Water and oil resistant
 Outer barrier is made of silicone impregnated fiberglass cloth
 Interior quiet barriers consist of PVC and quietglass insulation

38.  Max. cutting height:10 mm
 Working widths:1550 mm to 4050 mm
 Effective cutting length:3300 mm x 20.000 mm

40.  Low ply .2” max cutting height
 Powerful servo motors for
precise cutting and material
feeding
 Variable-power vacuum system
 Energy efficient
 Long life consumables
 User friendly controls and
operation
 Compatible with all cad file
formats
 Self diagnostics for a smooth
cutting process
 Complete set-up, testing and
training
Cutting Area
63” Wide x 94.5”
Long
Max Material Height
(after vacuum
absorption)
.19 inches
Max Cutting Speed 197 Feet per Minute
Cutting Method Knife Reciprocation
Power Requirement
AC 220 Volt 3-Phase,
60 Hz
Air Pressure
Requirement
80 PSI
Air Consumption 5.7 CFM
CAD Data Reading
Method
Network
Connection/
USB/Disk/Barcode
Knife Grinding
System
Double Wheel
Grinding Device

41.  X, Y, Z and C four axis action forms three-dimensional
cutting planes, which optimizes perfect curve cutting. The
LX-2416 is equipped with AC Servo Motors and Transistor
Inverters ensuring a very precise cutting operation.
 The cutter is equipped with specially designed software -
which distinguishes between lines and curves - giving the
cutter an intuitive ability to adjust the cutting speed
according to the complexity of patterns being cut.
 Integrated vacuum system flattens the material in the
entire cutting area eliminating material movement
between the layers.
 The double sided knife sharpening system makes blades
even on both sides, extending the usable life of the knife
exponentially over similar systems.

45. Features
 Laser device for start point
 Choice of cutting start point
 Complete management of cut files
 Wireless connection with the LAN
 Automatic cleaning system of the cutting conveyor
 Windows based operating system with computer , keyboard
, touchscreen monitor and mouse
 Cutting conveyor with programmable speed and reverse
movement
 Auto diagonal system to identify potential errors , with
suggested solutions
 Cutting Height: 8cm , 6 cm and 3 cm of compressed layer
 Power Supply : 20 kw
 Compressed Air : Consumption 150 L/min 6 Bar

46. Options
 Hot drill
 Lateral motorized travel kit to move the
machine between multiple spreading tables
 Cooling device : Blade cooling system
 Barcode reader to facilitate data marker input in
auto edit / cut software to manage and modify
ISO marker

47.  http://mosafavi.iut.ac.ir/sites/mosafavi.iut.ac.ir/files/files_course/cnc_
1_0.pdf
 http://www.demasewingautomation.com/index.php/component/virtuem
art/cutting-machines/gerber-gt5250-automatic-cutter-automatic-fabric-
cutting-system-detail?Itemid=0
 http://www.ttt.tukatech.com/sites/default/files/TUKAcut.pdf
 http://www.eastmancuts.com/media/pdf_catalogs/automated-product-
catalog.pdf
 http://www.demasewingautomation.com/index.php/dematron
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art/cutting-machines/gerber-gt5250-automatic-cutter-automatic-fabric-
cutting-system-detail?Itemid=0
 http://www.eastmancuts.com/products/automated-cutting-
systems/automated-cutting-systems/conveyor-cutting-system.html
 http://www.gregorcic.si/cms/tiny_mce/upload/pdf/Z7_E-nov.pdf
 http://amatec.no/assets/files/Brosjyrer/Gerber/Z7Brochure.pdf
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