Computer aided design of knitted and woven fabrics and virtual garment simulation

Abstract

Pattern cutting, sizing and fit are major issues for the clothing brands. All fashion companies are interested on how the product will fit their target customers and this involves making samples that eventually will not look or fit as per the desired design. 3D technology solutions are truly the best to deal with the existing needs of clothing manufacturers in order to diminish the costs and time of the sampling process, to improve the quality and reduce the rejects. In this study, the authors used automation techniques like computer pattern design, computer aided fabric production and 3D Simulation software. Two different fabrics (woven and knitted) were designed and produced. Then their material properties which have to be known by the 3D simulation were determined by official and in-house standards. Finally, 3D visualizations of dresses were created by using pattern and material data of the fabrics. By this study we were able to explain the product development route, from fabric design to garment prototype by using computers, for the companies willing to benefit from the advantages of computer aided design and manufacture.