Technological innovations in the production of sportwear: from conventional production to Industry 4.0

Abstract

The present research aims to present the technological evolution of sportwear production by comparing conventional and new production systems. For this, the following production systems were defined: conventional knitting (T-shirt and shoe upper), seamless knitting (T-shirt) and seamless 3D knitting (shoe upper). The definition of these objects of study was based on research that points to walking as the most practiced physical activity by Brazilians. The methodological procedure adopted in the present research is predominantly exploratory. Sportwear can be produced by the conventional process or new production processes. In the conventional production process, there are many steps for fabric manufacturing and confection. In turn, seamless technology reduces working time by creating ready-to-wear articles that require little or no sew, since the product is developed in a single process. In this way, seamless technology impacts on working time by reducing or eliminating the cut and sew operations and the amount of waste discarded. All innovations presented in this research indicate efficient production related to cost, working time, waste management and interaction with the consumer. By adopting these technologies, the textile industry begins to move towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution.