Abstract
In this research, we have developed sewing condition optimization processes to minimize seam pucker using Taguchi method (also called 'robust design', 'quality engineering', etc.). The new processes have been applied to two different T/C (polyester 65%, cotton 35%) fabrics with a specified experimental design using an optimum orthogonal array table. The selected target sewing parameters for optimization are sewing speed, stitch length, sewing thread tension, and presser foot pressure. The Taguchi processes ① calculate the SN (signal-to-noise) ratios of repeated experimental observations, ② find the corresponding influential sewing conditions for a given fabric. ③ determine the optimum values of the sewing conditions, ④ calculate the prediction interval of minimum seam pucker grade with optimum sewing conditions, ⑤ certify the applying Taguchi processes, and finally ⑥ compare the expectation losses between before and after improving seam pucker grades. Conclusively, using the Taguchi processes applied in this research, we can easily determine the optimum sewing conditions for minimization of seam pucker with simple experiments.
