TU-TESL

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According to foreign media reports, Ford of Europe, its European subsidiary, is introducing a "cutting-edge technology" to produce seamless seat covers using 3D knitting or flat knitting. (photo source: Ford) however, it is not new to use horizontal knitting machine to make 3D woven seat covers in the automobile industry, but it can promote sustainable development and reduce waste. The use of horizontal knitting technology to make car seat covers dates back decades, when Courtaulds, a British manufacturer of fabrics, clothing, man-made fibers and chemicals, developed the technology and licensed it to partners in the United Kingdom and the United States to provide GM with jacquard 3D woven car seat covers for commercial vehicles. The knitting industry believes that at least two other companies in the United States are still adopting this manufacturing process. Ford said the technology enabled textiles with built-in network connectivity to integrate heating elements, door and window control components, wireless smartphone charging devices, and sensors to monitor drivers. "In addition to achieving greater design flexibility, 3D weaving technology can also reduce production steps and reduce waste by cutting and stitching various fabrics and pieces," Ford said. This 3D knitting machine can be made into seat covers without sewing, and can use different yarns such as polyester, wool, silk, carbon fiber, and even recyclable materials. " "Customers can choose different seat covers for the front and rear seats of the car, one for children, or one for pets. More humanized is also the choice of personalized color combinations and graphics, as well as providing seasonal and regional design. " "Compared with the traditional seat cover, this technology can make the seat cover with higher precision and quality. The 3D woven seat cover fits the shape of the seat better and can reduce the defects such as wrinkles." "And any part of the interior of the car can be made with 3D weaving technology. The dashboard and door can be designed with different appearance according to different angles, and the car logo and graphics can be added to the seat cover with this technology." Ford said it was a leader in the production of comfortable and convenient seat covers. And the new Ford Puma is equipped with the company's first detachable seat cover and integrated with a zipper system. The seat cover is very personalized, customers can add their own image, name or logo, and it is washable, detachable, and easier to clean even if it is sprinkled with juice or crawled by pets, which helps to keep the car clean and tidy.