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In this research project, a new type of heat exchanger was developed based on an innovative textile structure. Using the classic tufting technology, the manufacturing requirements for this were created. The resulting "double loop structure" is a textile structure made of thermally conductive yarns that has a pile structure on both sides of the primary backing, in this case the thermal interface.
The heat transfer of the manufactured textiles was quantified and proven in a test rig.

We thank BMWK for the financial support of this research project.

The recycling of firmly bonded material systems is a major challenge. An example of this is the field of textile floor coverings, where a wide variety of materials must be combined to create different functionalities. The latex coating used so far hinders a high-quality recycling of the components polyamide, polyester and polypropylene after the use phase. The aim is therefore to develop a detachable bio-based coating system for textile floor coverings based on protein adhesion promoters and a degradable binder matrix. In the development of the application technology, particular emphasis is placed on industrial feasibility. During the use phase, the coating system should guarantee all necessary functions, and after use, it should be detachable by applying a trigger (e.g. extreme pH or temperature). The main users of the research results are SMEs from the field of textile floor coverings, textile multi-material systems (home, automotive, technical textiles), coating, adhesives, biotechnology.

Together with the MMI | Institute for Human-Machine Interaction, we have developed an experimentable digital twin (EDT) on a tufting machine as an example in the T-EXDIZ project. The EDT makes it possible to precisely record, store and reproduce tool parameters. Until now, this was hardly possible due to the inaccurate setting mechanisms. With the EDT, the tufting process can be digitally mapped, changes made and tested without having to modify the tufting machine. If the parameters tested in the simulation promise a more uniform tufting result with fewer production errors, the settings can be transferred to the real machine. The T-EXDIZ project has shown that even older, manually operated machines can be digitally retrofitted. Here, the benefits of digitization can be harnessed, leading to more reliable production, a digital knowledge base and a more modern, attractive working environment.

"Dr. Aslan, the TFI, ... the Institute for soil systems and building products at the Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule in Aachen - plays a key role. In an in-depth interview with Room Reporter, the people in charge of the institute, led by Dr. Bayram Aslan, explain the lasting power - in both senses of the word - that the results of CISUFLO can develop. If the project is successful, the results will have a direct impact on the entire value chain of the flooring industry, the CISUFLO partners hope ..."
Jochen Lange, Room Reporter

On June 14, 2022, after two years of pandemic, our Scientific Advisory Board was finally able to meet again in person. We were pleased about the helpful discussions and important hints of the participants regarding our research ideas. In addition, we were able to show how we were able to expand our infrastructure during the two years - despite the pandemic. We were also lucky to be able to present our new homepage at the same time. For the user, we have revised our website in design, structure and content in a future-oriented way, modernized it and integrated new features, in which the customers can also actively participate.