Project Overview
As part of its mandate for upgrade and develop of indigenous technology, an automated rapier weaving machine (RMRDC rapier weaving machine) has been developed for the commercial production of Aso-oke fabric. The machine has been tested and the various mechanisms worked satisfactorily. A large quantity of Aso-oke fabric was woven on the machine and analysed. The analysis shows a more consistent results compared to the results obtained from the locally hand woven Aso-oke. The major breakthrough was the successful modification of the conventional rapier head mechanism from a single weft insertion to a multiple weft insertions in a single shed. The project will catalyse the establishment of the automated weaving loom manufacturing industries in Nigeria with the attendant huge investment and employment opportunities. The technology has been patented.
