The Development of Jacquard Shedding Mechanism on Folk Loom of Ban Nong Trat Noi Silk Weaving Group, Chum Het Sub-district, Muang District, Buriram

Abstract

This study aims to develop a 400-hook Jacquard shedding mechanism tailored for traditional handlooms used by the Ban Nong Trat Noi silk weaving group in Buriram Province. The primary goal is to create a functional prototype that can be effectively integrated within community-based production systems. In addition, the research includes the design and fabrication of auxiliary tools such as a punch card drilling machine and a card threading machine to support the production of patterned silk textiles and reduce dependence on highly skilled labor. The innovation is intended to facilitate the transfer of knowledge through technology adapted to local contexts. The findings from the study demonstrate improvements in production efficiency and enable broader participation from younger individuals and those without prior weaving experience, thereby contributing to the preservation of indigenous knowledge and community-level economic development. The research methodology involved assessing user requirements, designing and constructing prototype equipment, conducting field installations and testing, and evaluating performance using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Experimental results show that the developed Jacquard system improves weaving speed to an average of 45.72 centimeters per hour—approximately three times faster than the traditional process. The punch card drilling machine operates at an average rate of 25 cards per hour, and the card threading machine completes each unit in approximately 3.5 seconds. Mechanical analysis reveals that pressure generated from the knife box significantly influences the accuracy of warp thread elevation, directly affecting the clarity of woven patterns. The system's design incorporates principles of motion dynamics and optimized force distribution to reduce operator fatigue and enhance operational stability. User satisfaction was reported to be high, affirming the practicality and relevance of the system. Recommendations include continuous training and customization of the equipment to suit various local environments, thereby supporting scalability and sustainable application across different community settings.