Lectra, a leader in integrated technology solutions dedicated to industries using fabrics, leather, technical textiles and composite materials, has launched its new VectorFootwear digital technology to transform traditional cutting rooms into state-of-the-art digitalised domains for athletic footwear.

According to the manufacturer, when compared with traditional die presses, Lectra’s VectorFootwear not only guarantees that manufacturers and brands are compliant with Industry 4.0 principles, it also provides major gains, including fabric optimisation, maximum flexibility, optimised productivity and performance, as well as improved quality and operational excellence.

“Lectra’s Industry 4.0 credentials are revolutionising manufacturing, in particular for the labour intensive athletic footwear market today. Firmly rooted in digitalisation and automation, VectorFootwear enables shorter time to market, to produce more pairs of shoes per hour and to handle more types of fabric; and successfully meets growing technical challenges,” epxlained Céline Choussy Bedouet, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Lectra.

Predictive maintenance

Connected to Lectra’s call centres, VectorFootwear’s 180 embedded sensors and counters allow predictive maintenance to avoid costly downtime. With up to 98% uptime, VectorFootwear is one of the most reliable cutting solutions on the marketplace, the company reports.

VectorFootwear can replace between four and eight die presses depending on the model. Compared to traditional die press production, Lectra’s digital solution is said to save up to 6% in fabric by minimising the gap between cut parts, combining several nestings together and cutting with accuracy.

Complementing VectorFootwear, Lectra has launched a DiaminoFootwear nesting solution dedicated to footwear. In just a few minutes, it processes the optimal placement for fabrics in order to maximise material consumption. Fully automated, it is also said to allow for quick and accurate cost simulations for fabric purchases.

Lectra

Lectra is a leader in integrated technology solutions (software, automated cutting equipment, and associated services) specifically designed for industries using fabrics, leather, technical textiles, and composite materials to manufacture their products.

It serves markets including fashion and apparel, automotive, and furniture, as well as a broad array of other industries. Lectra’s solutions, specific to each market, aim to enable customers to automate and optimise product design, development, and manufacturing. With more than 1,550 employees, Lectra has developed relationships with customers in more than 100 countries.

www.lectra.com