Manufacturing

Computer-aided design (CAD), ICT and computer-aided manufacture (CAM) play a vital role in modern textiles production.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is the use of computer software to control machine tools and related machinery in the manufacturing of workpieces. CAM may also refer to the use of a computer to assist in all operations of a manufacturing plant, including planning, management, transportation and storage.[

examples:

• Textiles designs are stored electronically to ease repeat printing orders.
• Processes such as colour matching, dye weighing and fabric printing can be automated.
• Designs and information can be sent electronically on a global scale.
• CAD and CAM can be used to enhance accuracy of repetitive identical production.

Computer-numerical control (CNC) machines are used for printing, cutting, joining and other processes. CNC-automated machines can repeat processes with accuracy and reliability, and are easily re-programmed when changes are needed. Uses of CNC machines include:

• picking up fabric from store room
• spreading and cutting fabric
• labelling and transporting cut fabric pieces for assembly
• moving cut fabric pieces around the factory on an overhead conveyor
• automating processes like buttonholing or embroidery
• filling soft drinks bottles.

Working capital is the life blood and nerve centre of a business. No business can be run successfully without adequate amount of working capital. The advantages of maintaining adequate working capital are as follows:

Continuous Production: Adequate working capital ensures regular supply of raw materials and continuous production.

Solvency and Goodwill: Adequate working capital enables prompt payment to creditors. This helps in creating and maintaining goodwill.

Easy Loans: A concern having sufficient working capital enjoys high liquidity and good credit standing. Hence it can secure loans from banks and others on easy and favorable terms.

Cash Discounts: Adequate working capital enables a concern to avail cash discounts on the purchases, leading to a reduction in costs.

Regular Payment of Expenses: A company which has ample working capital can make regular payment of salaries, wages and other day-to-day commitments. Such prompt payment raises the morale of employees and increases their efficiency. As a result, costs are minimized and profit increases.

Exploitation of Market Conditions: A concern with adequate working capital can exploit favorable market conditions. It can buy its requirements of raw materials in bulk when the market price is lower. Similarly, it can hold stock of finished goods to realise better prices.

: Adequate working capital enables a concern to face business crisis such as depression because during such periods there is much pressure on working capital.

High Return on Investments: Adequacy of working capital facilitates continuous production and effective utilization of fixed assets. Because of this, the concern is able to generate more profits and ensure higher return on investments.

-By Kuldeep B. Shukla