Design and development of a semiautomatic handloom in alternative material

Abstract

A handloom is a simple machine made of wood for weaving cloth manually using upper and lower limbs. Studies have shown that weavers face acute health complications due to the continuous manual operation of the handloom [1]. The productivity of traditional wooden handlooms is low which can be increased through standardization of semiautomatic handloom where motions are synchronized through automation (without power) reducing drudgery of the weavers. Introduction of semiautomatic mechanisms like smoothness, precision, standard, durability, and ease of mass manufacture requires limited usage of wood as a material. This research was initiated to design and develop a semiautomatic handloom in an alternative material which fulfills the requirement. This paper discusses the design process of a semiautomatic handloom reducing manually operated motions of traditional handloom. Design for Assembly and Manufacturing (DFAM) methodology was followed for conceptualizing the design. Aesthetics and human factors were considered to enhance perception of loom and to improve work environment for comfort of weavers.