Objective
ClosedToe is a breakthrough retrofitting technology that transforms traditional circular knitting machines into fully automated, all-in-one sock-producing systems by eliminating the last remaining manual production step: toe closing. In today’s hosiery industry, socks are knitted on one machine and manually transferred to a separate linking machine, a process that is slow, labour-intensive, costly, and prone to quality variation. ClosedToe introduces a patented mechanical device and control system that can be integrated directly into existing circular knitting machines, enabling automated folding and stitching of the sock toe within the same production cycle. This innovation dramatically simplifies manufacturing, reduces labour requirements, increases productivity, and improves product consistency and comfort.
The ClosedToe system has already been validated as a proof of concept (TRL 4) and will be advanced to a TRL 6 industrial prototype adapted for the widely used Lonati 462 machine. The solution delivers a compelling value proposition: up to 40% faster production, reduced operational costs, improved product durability, and the ability for manufacturers to upgrade current machine fleets without large capital investments. ClosedToe supports Europe’s goals for smarter, greener manufacturing by reducing waste, enabling reshoring, and enhancing competitiveness in the textile sector. Through comprehensive technical refinement, pilot testing, market validation, and investment-readiness activities, the project will prepare the ClosedToe technology for large-scale commercial uptake and position it as a new global standard for automated hosiery production.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.4.1 - Widening participation and spreading excellence
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-CSA - HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-WIDERA-2025-02
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
9401 Vlore
Albania
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.