Automating fabric inspection in the textile industry is complex due to varying products, defect names and acceptance levels. There have been many instances where vision systems across the industry in textile inspection have failed to meet expectations.
To ensure the best possible outcomes for system implementations, Shelton Vision has developed a structured pathway to ensure the delivery pf reliable, efficient and commercially viable fabric inspection systems tailored to each client’s needs.
We reduce risks and ensures successful system implementations through three key phases:
This initial phase involves understanding the client’s business and setting clear expectations. It includes a visit to the client’s premises or obtaining video and drawings of the process where the system may be fitted. Shelton Vision provides a Discovery Document to gather broader information about the client’s business, which helps determine technical requirements and the business case.
For every new inquiry, we request the client submit a range of physical defect samples for evaluation and testing. This step serves multiple purposes:
Once samples are assessed and the system’s capability is confirmed, we move to a deeper level of commitment through the following steps:
Roll Samples Testing
The client sends pre-inspected roll samples with defects indicated at the selvedge for inspection on our demonstration machine/system. After training the rolls on our system, we invite the client to review the inspection and discuss system features in detail.
Client Site Visits
We can arrange for the client to visit one of our longstanding clients in the UK to see fully automated in-line inspection processes, optimised cut plans and automated defect labeling, roll cutting, waste removal, sample removal and roll packing. This setup is managed by just three people, with no manual fabric inspection.
Final Discussions
We finalise the system specification, options and commercial terms. Client responsibilities, such as installing a web cleaner if there is significant lint or dust, are also clarified.
Before or shortly after the purchase order is placed, Shelton Vision conducts a detailed site survey to confirm all requirements and responsibilities, which are listed in our proposal document.
Upon system completion, we request further fabric samples for a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and recommend client personnel attend the FAT. This phase also includes pre-commissioning some styles and training users to ensure a smoother implementation at the client’s site.
At Shelton Vision, we understand the importance of proving our technology’s effectiveness before a customer commits to a purchase. That’s why we invite customers to send us samples of their materials, which we then set up and test on our fully specced in-house demo system and invite the customer to personally come and see the system in action. This testing process demonstrates how our inspection technology functions on specific styles and specific defects unique to each customer.
By providing this hands-on evaluation, we offer customers tangible evidence of our system’s performance, giving them confidence in their investment before they commit to purchasing an actual system. Please see the guidelines below on how to prepare samples for testing.
