Custom-Designed Tooling and Fixture Systems for Enhanced Textile Manufacturing via Additive Manufacturing

This project brings together Davey Textile Solutions and the Multifunctional Design and Additive Manufacturing (MDAM) Lab at the University of Alberta to enhance textile production using additive manufacturing technology. Traditional tooling in textile factories is often generic and not optimized for ergonomics or specific tasks. This project addresses these limitations by designing and 3D printing custom mechanical tools using Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles.

Researchers will create models of tools that are lightweight, application-specific, and ergonomically optimized. These designs will undergo topology optimization before being manufactured using 3D printers. Following fabrication, the tools will be deployed directly on Davey’s production line, where their operational performance will be evaluated under routine conditions. Operator feedback and production data will guide successive refinements to optimize both function and ergonomics.

Examples of tooling to be developed include guides for trim separation, cleaning devices for hard-to-reach areas, adjustable lamination fixtures, and fan blades. The project will also deliver a DfAM-based design framework to help Davey Textile continue prototyping tools internally beyond the project.

This partnership not only increases the company’s productivity and safety but also demonstrates how academic innovation can deliver real-world solutions for Canadian manufacturing industries.

Faculty Supervisor:

Osezua Ibhadode

Student:

Partner:

Davey Textile Solutions Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Alberta

Program: