Session introduces textile technology students to smart weaving, automation and energy-efficient air-jet weaving systems
NITRA Technical Campus, Department of Textile Technology, organised a guest lecture on “Innovations in Air-Jet Weaving Technology” on 10 September 2026. The programme was held in association with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), NITRA Technical Campus.
The session focused on modern air-jet weaving technology and recent developments in weaving machinery. It also aimed to give students practical and industry-oriented knowledge.
Industry Expert Shares Insights on Air-Jet Weaving
The resource person for the lecture was Mr. Utkarsh Srivastava, Area Sales Manager, Picanol Weaving Machines.
The seminar began with a welcome address by Mr. Vivek Agarwal, Deputy Director and Dean, Department of Textile Technology. He highlighted the importance of the programme for students.
Following the welcome address, Mr. Ajay Shankar Joshi, Assistant Professor, formally introduced the resource person.
Mr. Utkarsh Srivastava then shared technical insights into modern air-jet weaving technology and its industrial applications.
Focus on Smart and Sustainable Weaving
During the session, Mr. Srivastava discussed the role of sustainable manufacturing and smart weaving.
Key areas covered during the lecture included:
- Online monitoring systems
- Climate control
- Energy consumption optimisation
- Digital technologies
- Automation
- Intelligent monitoring systems
- Process control
These technologies are being integrated into modern weaving machines to support productivity, quality and resource efficiency.
Picanol Air-Jet Weaving Technologies Discussed
Mr. Srivastava also explained the key features of the OmniPlus-i Connect Air-jet weaving machine.
He discussed recent advancements and technologies incorporated into modern Picanol weaving machines. These included AI-based AirMaster, EcoBoost and EcoWaste.
The session highlighted how these technologies contribute to machine performance, energy efficiency and sustainable production.
Mr. Srivastava further explained the WeavePilot system used in Picanol air-jet weaving machines. He discussed its role in supporting efficient machine operation and process control.
The technical session helped students understand the growing role of digitalisation and automation in weaving. It also provided insights into intelligent monitoring systems used in modern textile machinery.
Interactive Session with Students and Faculty
The programme also featured an interactive question-and-answer session.
Faculty members and students raised questions related to air-jet weaving technology. Mr. Srivastava responded to the queries and shared practical experiences from the textile industry.
The session witnessed participation from students and faculty members of B.Tech Textile Technology. More than 50 participants attended the programme.
Seminar Bridges Academic Learning and Industry
The guest lecture provided students with an opportunity to connect classroom learning with industrial applications.
The session also enhanced their technical understanding of air-jet weaving technology. In addition, it introduced students to recent developments in smart weaving, automation, digital monitoring and energy-efficient textile manufacturing.
At the end of the session, Dr. Roopam Chauhan, Senior Scientific Officer and Assistant Professor, proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme concluded with Dr. M. S. Parmar, Director General, NITRA, felicitating the resource person. He presented Mr. Utkarsh Srivastava with a memento as a token of appreciation for sharing his knowledge and industry experience.