Enhancing resource efficiency in the textile industry through AI-powered solutions

Innovative software solutions for the textile industry 

INTEX specializes in software solutions for the textile industry, supporting nearly all processes in the textile supply chain. With over 30 years of experience and almost 400 customers, INTEX provides solutions ranging from ERP processes to supply chain management. The Green-AI Hub pilot project with INTEX aims to enhance sustainability in the textile industry using suitable AI solutions throughout the entire process. 

Challenge: sustainability in the design process 

In the future, textile manufacturers will have to place more emphasis on sustainability due to new EU legislation and growing consumer awareness. The industry faces a poor image and is highly influenced by changing trends, with garments often designed without considering sustainability. In addition, environmentally and socially responsible business models are uncommon. However, by incorporating sustainability aspects such as durability, recyclability, and the proportion of microplastic during the designing of clothing, resources can be saved over the entire lifecycle. To promote sustainable design, INTEX leverages the expertise of the Green-AI Hub Mittelstand to implement AI solutions. 

Consideration of sustainability criteria in the design process through an AI-supported suggestion system 

In the pilot project, an AI-supported suggestion system is being developed to make textile design more sustainable. The system is trained on data regarding materials used, processing steps, durability, return rates, and more. It can suggest material combinations that enhance recyclability and longevity, thereby reducing environmental impact. A knowledge database with relevant information is essential, initially determined manually (e.g. recycling-optimized material selection) and later automated as sufficient lifecycle data becomes available. The suggestion system is then trained and tested by two customers using the INTEX software. A second use case in the pilot project involves designing an AI system for predicting stock levels in online shopping and shipping. This will enable more accurate sales forecasts across various channels, reducing overproduction and saving transportation resources.

Saving resources through AI-supported suggestion system for sustainability criteria in the design process 

The pilot project of the Green-AI Hub Mittelstand also enables resource savings by extending garment lifespans and improving recyclability. Integrated into existing INTEX software, this AI solution creates a multiplier effect across the industry. Even if the individual savings per garment are only ten percent, widespread application could save millions of tons of material annually. This would significantly reduce CO2 emissions, water use, chemicals, and other resources in the areas of in production, logistics, and disposal, resulting in a quick return on investments and a substantial positive environmental impact.