APPAREL PRODUCTION

MANAGEMENT

JURY

A Research Paper on

Need of 3D Sampling technologies in Apparel Manufacturing and

Merchandising process in India

MADE BY: - MANISHA BARLA

DEPARTMENT OF MASTERS IN FASHION MANAGEMENT

SEMESTER -1
OCTOBER 2019

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Need of 3D Sampling technologies in Apparel
Manufacturing and Merchandising process in India

ABSTRACT

The research paper is about the 3D sampling technologies used in the sampling stage of
garment industries and the benefits received by them. It highlights that the 3D process of
sampling is more efficient, streamlined and less time-consuming than the physical sampling
process. It replaces the manual tasks with digital assets (designing, sampling and pattern
making) with the opportunity to eliminate communication errors among involved parties
(design, technical, production, vendors). Still, there is a resistance to adopt 3D technology by
the companies in India. The findings and analysis of the research is about the understanding of
the reasons behind it and suggest these companies the steps to adopt these technologies and
software like CLo, and Optitex.On the basis of this research the 3D sampling process can be
offered to the companies in India

KEYWORD -3D sampling

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INDEX

S. No TOPIC Page No.

1 INTRODUCTION 4
a Background 4
b Need of the Research 5
c Novelty of the Research 5
2 OBJECTIVE –SUB OBJECTIVE 5
3 REVIEW OF LITERATURE 6
4 METHODOLOGY 8
a Primary Data Collection –User’s Review 9
b Secondary Data collection 10
c Sampling Process in Garment Industry 10
d 3D sampling Process 11
e Software and Technologies 12

Reasons companies face challenges from moving away from

f Traditional method and adopting the advanced method of 3D 11
sampling.

g The reality that needs to be understood 12

h Features of 3D sampling software 14
5 FINDINGS 18
6 ANALYSIS 19
7 FUTURE SCOPE 20
8 CONCLUSION 20
9 REFERENCE 21

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INTRODUCTION

Background

Technological advancements and the adoption of 3D models have been prominent in

manufacturing and engineering industries for decades, working with products such as furniture,
automobiles, computer chips, planes, and more. However, 3D technology has only recently
started infiltrating the apparel industry as more benefits of its use are coming to light. It can be
used for everything from product design, development, sampling, as well as for the use of 3D
images for websites.

3D Sampling

3D Virtual sampling and prototyping is the new way to explore design concepts and variations
before the actual production. 3D technology helps designers and technical designers see,
validate and refine the product before moving to actual physical proto sampling and
manufacturing. For many industries this is the norm. The apparel industry is still in the process
of adaptation and implementation.

3D sampling in Apparel Industry

Virtual sampling challenges the traditional ways of product development. Working advanced
technology allows designers to make 3D virtual samples of garments, rather than building them
physically from real fabric and shipping them to various design houses and manufacturers. This
enables brands to increase overall efficiency and lower production costs, all while meeting
quality standards and specifications consistently.

Designing, product development, sampling and production of a clothing line is an exhausting

and time-consuming process. Larger companies like Adidas and Nike have been using 3D
virtual proto sampling for designing and apparel development for a while. They do have an
advantage in available resources and manpower. For smaller apparel companies, with limited
budgets, it is still a work in progress.

Still, there is a resistance to adopt 3D technology. India, being one of the largest apparel
manufacturing hubs is lagging behind in taking a shift from traditional method of physical
sampling to adopt the 3d virtual sampling techniques. There are many reasons behind it
amongst which some are even the ongoing myths followed in the past. There is a need to
understand the upcoming benefits that the companies can get by using these soft wares.

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Need for the Research

One of the oldest industries which fulfill the basic needs of humans is the garment industry.
Garment industry contributes a high percentage in the country’s total revenue. But still there
are many challenges that the industry has to face in the future. The main areas of concern are:
Cost Savings, Quality, Fabric Saving, communication, Product development The fashion
industry in India has seen the potential benefits of 3-D renderings for almost a year now, but
has yet to be able to bridge the gap between theoretical applications and actual implementation.

Novelty in the Research

Although all the previous research has focused on the technical side of product development
and use of 3D virtual samples by international apparel companies, very few research has been
found to show how it could be integrated in Indian Apparel Industry, and what would the
expected results be for such initiative. This paper is initiated to close this gap. Use of new and
conventional sampling techniques like 3D sampling in India is very important for both
manufacturing companies that need to reduce the time invested in sampling process to reduce
its cost and also for fashion buyers and retailing companies in getting the best services on time
using up to date technology.

OBJECTIVE
● To highlight benefits of the virtual garment sampling in the industry.
● To suggested the virtual garment sampling technology to the Apparel manufacturing
and merchandising sectors in India.

Sub Objectives
● To identify the gaps in garments sampling process.
● To identify the challenges of moving away from the physical samples.
● To understand the reasons of Indian Garment industry lagging behind in adopting these
techniques.
● To identify the software and technologies for virtual garment sampling process.
● To understand the steps to adopt the 3D sampling technology.

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REVIEW OF LITERATURE

A paper by Manoj Kumar Paras (February ,2013) extensively reviews the probable and possible
scope of web based 3D Garment Simulation. Using this technology, a fashion Industry can
reduce time and cost of multiple iterations of garment sampling. In general, sampling is very
tedious, time consuming & Costly process because most of time money is wasted in making
samples and re-correcting them as per buyer comments. By application of the above
technology, Garment manufacturers will not follow iterative methods for sampling by making
physical samples for correct fit at various stages of sampling. Fitting and drape of 3D virtual
garment can be checked on virtual dummy (Avatar). Motion can also be given to this dummy
to check stress on different part of garment during motion/movement of body. This function
will be very helpful in defining and correcting the garment fit which otherwise can be only felt
by live model. Web based Simulation will give an extra edge to the Buyer to see and comment
on the virtual sample sent by manufacturer. Concerned Designer/Garment Technologist can
login to the particular website from remote location or office to see & evaluate virtual samples.
Comments/Correction will be reached to Product Development/Merchandising Team at
manufacturer end on Real time. Hence rectified virtual pattern can be send back to the buyer
immediately for approval. Beside this web based 3D Garment Simulation Software will easy
& cheap to use than currently available window based. This can be accessed from multiple
locations after validation of Login details. Hence separate installation of software at
Manufacturer/Buyer end can be avoided and thus it will be a saving for both partners. Cloud
computing will further enhance this technology. Moreover, this framework will try to integrate
3D Garment simulation with CAD system. Finally, Web Based/Online 3D Simulation will be
revolutionary approach over conventional tedious/ iterative Garment Sampling Process.[1.a]

According to a research by Dr. Maged Kamal (April 2015), the prototyping process, which is
centralized within the apparel product development process, is a time-consuming and costly
process for many apparel companies today. By minimizing the sample development time and
optimizing the sample development process, apparel companies including buyers and
manufacturers will benefit from resource efficiency followed. This paper employed an
explanatory and exploratory multiple case study research approach to investigate the current
sample development processes in five apparel companies in Egypt to explain the traditional
sampling process to show the main process in handling the samples between apparel buyers
and suppliers. The study results showed that physical samples couldn’t be fully avoided
because of the need of buyers to touch the used textile materials. Therefore, a new blended
model has been developed to enhance speed to market using three dimensional virtual sampling
together with physical sampling techniques. The resulted model which called blended sampling
process model (BSPM) is proposed. The solution and the resulting implications for the
adjustment of the regarded sampling procedures are explained. A positive effect of adopting
virtual technology in sampling process such as reducing the number of samples produced and
consequently reducing the cost is expected. The developed model would act as a guideline for
future implementation and would evoke the interest of retailing importers companies and

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manufacturing export companies to achieve a lean supply chain therefore satisfying their
customers.[1.b]

According to a research by Alexandra A.M. Kuijpers (2014), the potential of 3D virtual

technology is high for the fashion industry. However, the implementation by the industry is
slow. Body proportions and fabric properties contribute to the complex fitting tasks. This paper
aims to provide an insight in the benefits 3D virtual technology can have for the fashion and
clothing industry, and stimulate interest and application of these digital tools.[1.c]

According to a study by Charm Ram mandala (January ,2017), it is time to shift to 3D virtual
garment technology to minimize the sample development cost and to reduce the sample lead
time. The technology is called as 3D virtual prototyping of clothing products. One of the
biggest challenges faced by apparel manufacturers is getting development samples done on
time. Failing to do so results in many setbacks to the companies. Samples are used for various
decision making steps. At early stages of development, samples are looked at to decide a
possible manufacture. Based on the samples received by each company, buyers will decide
which company has the best handwriting. Even if they find a company has quoted a better price
but the sample is not arrived on time, buyer most probably decides to go with the company
which has sent the sample on time. Also development samples used in range selection meetings
and salesman samples. If the samples not reached buyers on time, naturally the manufacture
loose out the orders. Developing samples and sending on time ensure continuous orders.
Developing samples is a costly business. In most cases, fabric mills charge for the sample
yardage. If the mill is not a regular source, they may even ask to pay minimum charges,
increasing the development cost. As we know buyers always want to see samples in several
different color ways and few different fabric options. Getting the fabrics and trims on time,
making them and couriering is a significant task and a cost to the company. Recent
developments in 3D technology, CAD systems and rapidly evolving computer graphics
technology is providing an alternative solution to the sample making process. Leading
companies like Adidas and Nike already using this technology to minimize the development
cost and reduce the lead time. If we try to understand what purpose samples provide, the main
reason for the development samples are to understand the designs, styling details, range
compatibility, hand feel, measurements, color combos and drape. Using 3D avatar’s companies
can avoid making multiple samples in all color ways. Making one or a few samples from the
actual fabric would satisfy the buyers on hand feel and drape. Rest of the collection can be
created using 3D virtual garment technology as it can satisfy all other need for samples. When
trying out new design concepts and ideas, 3D virtual garment technology provides a fast and
accurate interpretation of the samples.3D avatar can be customized to each buyer’s
measurement specifications to reflect the fit. Further, creating samples on 3D avatar gives a
good understanding on how the fabric is draped on the body and what areas need attention.
Files can be sent between buyers and development teams as 2D or 3D so real time discussion
can be conducted and changes can be applied at the same time. These attributes save not only
costs but lead time giving the companies a competitive advantage over other
manufacturers.[1.d]

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In an exploratory study by Fatma Baytar and Susan Ashdown (may 2015), three-dimensional
(3D) virtual design and try-on technologies were investigated using 3D body-scan avatars
(virtual human bodies). Such technology offers the possibility of allowing consumers to
become involved as co-designers in the design process, with possible sustainability
implications on how the clothing is valued and used. Eight apparel design students each
designed garments to be worn for a semi-special event. Participants were scanned using the
Human Solutions Vitus XXL 3D body scanner to create their own virtual avatar. These virtual
personal fit models were then imported into the Optitex.On system to be used for the digital
garment-creation process. Participants also viewed a short video as a part of the methodology
on the environmental impact of current practices of apparel design, production, use, and
discard. The qualitative nature of this study enabled an in-depth analysis of participants’
interactions with virtual design and fit technology and their perceptions of digitally created
garments, along with issues related to sustainable consumption. Future work will include
observing interaction patterns of different user groups.[5]

METHODOLOGY

PRIMARY DATA COLLECTION

Review by user in the Industry - Technical Designer for the brand Ann Taylor

Since the technical designing team of Tilburg, India has been using the 3D sampling process
for its buyer, they have seen the reduction in the lead time of sample approval from 3 months
to 1 month. Since all their buyers are foreign based they use to face loss due to logistics during
the sample approval process from their buyer. The use of this technology has saved this
transportation time. Now they create and recreate their samples using the 3D sampling Software
(CLO). They develop one or two physical proto sample to get approvals from their buyer after
all the initial samples being approved. According to them the software is easy to learn and
access and doesn’t require advanced training. Around 5-7 garment samples can be developed
in a day each garment taking approximately 2 hours to be rendered including the pattern
development process of the garment.
They are now starting to use the technology for range development for upcoming trends to
showcase it to their buyers without physical samples, as it helps them to do changes as per the
buyer’s requirement. As according to them the virtual sample is almost aligned to a physical
sample.

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Virtual sample Physical sample

Virtual sample Physical sample

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SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION

Sampling Process in Garment Industry

Sampling is one of the key elements of the pre-production processes in a garment industry.
Before a manufacturer produces bulk orders, a prior sampling of styles is done to get approvals.
Sampling is not just for buyers, but the manufacturers can also derive estimates of yarn
consumption for development of fabric, dyeing, printing, and stitching cost for a particular
style or pattern given by the buyer. Companies can have a separate sampling department or a
merchandiser, who works closely with the sampling section to source raw materials, and
processes for developing a quality product for an affordable price.

Sampling includes details like a product/style code or a reference number, color specifications,
kind of fabric, composition, description, quantity, and details of embroidery, buttons, zippers,
or any other sort of accessories used. Hence it can be said that samples of garments work as a
bridge between buyers and the producers. There are many people who are involved directly
and indirectly in the process of sampling. Designers, buyers, individuals engaged in sourcing
and purchasing, production team, quality control personnel, and the costing department at
different levels work closely on the sampling of garments. Various types of samples that are
developed by manufacturers depending on the requirement of their respective buyers. The
following is a list of different kinds of samples used in the garment export industry:

TYPE OF SAMPE SAMPLE PURPOSE NO. OF

SAMPLES TO
BE MADE

1-2
Proto sample With the tech pack instruction, it is a process
that develops a new style so that the buyer is
able to visualize the product at an early stage -
but the material and trim (such as the button
use, zipper use) may not be the correct one.
This is due to the fact that the correct material
cannot meet the lead time.

1st and 2nd Sample 4-6

Some of the materials have arrived, then the
sample maker develops a new sample to ask

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 for approval, which is revised by the buyer,
and sent another sample for approval.

Color way sample 4-6

A new style may have a different colorway.
This is a process to develop the style in full
color range for the buyer to review and
comment upon.

Fit Sample 7-9

With the end customer’s size specification, the
sample room needs to develop full-size fit
range samples and fit into their fitting
mannequin for review. There will be comment
and modification for fitting.

Pre-Production 3-4
Sample This is the final sample made before
production begins. That final sample will be
used in the production line as the standard
product.

Cost of these samples varies for different types of garments, which include the following: -
● Cost of making (sample maker’s time)
● Cost of material (to develop a full material set)
● Cost of delivery (logistic company flight charge)
● Cost of wrong sampling and remake

3D sampling process and its benefits

3D sampling reduces the overall lead time and the costs mentioned above for the sampling
process. Some of the major advantages of 3D sampling are as follows:-

● It speeds up the production process, taking a concept to production in just weeks instead
of months. Apparel brands are under pressure to be ready to go to market before or at
least at the same time as their competition, so being able to shave weeks or even months
off the design process by avoiding waiting time to create different variations of samples
is valuable. Computer designed 3D samples use the exact pattern and model's body
measurements to display an accurate representation of the garment's style and fit.

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 ● Producing a virtual sample takes a shorter time. Postage of fabrics and samples to and
from suppliers to customers, and the waiting time for them to be created by hand and
arrive is eliminated.
● Trend can demand changes of the fit and style of garments at any time and these can be
sampled straight away, allowing more production flexibility.
● Sampling costs are vastly reduced. Many samples can be made using different fabric
types, textures, colors, prints and sizes. Making all of these as physical samples could
be cost prohibitive.
● Computer-generated images of garments can be used in brochures, on websites, and in
marketing materials without needing to take photographs of physical samples.

Software for 3D sampling in apparels Industry

There are many software’s available to do develop 3D samples like VStitcher, Lotta, Stylezone,
but the most efficient ones are: -

● OPTITEX: - Optitex.On is a leading provider of 3D Virtual Prototyping & 2D

CAD/CAM software solutions for the apparel, automotive, aeronautics, industrial
fabrics and upholstery industries. Optitex.On presents these industries with innovative,
open and easy to use products that are designed to facilitate collaboration among the
various partners throughout the manufacturing process. Optitex.On solutions are
available in over 20 languages and integrate seamlessly into most operating
environments. From design to production it is specialized in digital innovation. Their
groundbreaking software solutions include 2D design and 3D visualization platforms
that cover the entire supply chain, create efficient workflows, and shorten time to
market.

● CLO: - Clo 3D is a 3D design software that helps fashion and garments business. This
3D sampling software has modules for supporting options required by this business
such as the various size of clothes, shapes, new brands, colors, etc. It is very famous
among all the software designers with users from all over the world.

Reasons companies face challenges from moving away from Traditional method and
adopting the advanced method of 3D sampling.

● Lack of trust: Companies are not ready to immediately trust and embrace 3D samples
and exclusively use them to make decisions. They are not ready to trust in garments
that have been produced based on computer design rather than analogue physical
samples. While traditionalists will need longer to be convinced, when huge companies
like Hugo Boss and Adidas have been using 3D design successfully, it makes the case
increasingly compelling.
● Lack of skills to use 3D design: 3D solutions in the market need patterns to arrive at
the final 3D image; however, many fashion companies no longer have internal pattern

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 makers and instead outsource the work by sending off technical packs to their
partnering factories who will then create the prototype sample. The challenge is
deciding who the development of the 3D content should be tasked out to within the
organization. While creative and tech designers exist within a company, they may not
have the necessary skills needed. Virtual sampling is not something that materializes
just by purchasing a 3D system and asking the pattern operator to start making virtual
samples. One needs to employ people with a full range of software skills like the ability
to make hardware (buttons, graphics) and software skills to make prints and logos to
‘partner’ with your 3D technical designer.

● Expense of being an early adopter: Investing in virtual sampling is expensive, and

adoption rates are still currently slow. The success rate will depend on the end-user and
whether the consumer will feel comfortable with purchasing from virtual models.

The reality that needs to be understood

Few Myths about 3D Design were proved wrong by CLO (the most evolved software for
sampling in apparel industry). Whether one is still using a 2D CAD system or hand-sketching
your designs, they have more than likely heard or thought at one point or another some
preconceived notions regarding 3D design solutions that are not all too accurate. Although it is
completely understandable to have misconceptions about a new technology that is foreign to
many, they could ultimately be holding companies and designers back from some significant
and possibly much-needed changes to an everyday workflow

 Myth 1 :-It is inaccurate and you can't use it for fit

One of the biggest concerns surrounding 3D design solutions is whether or not it is

accurate and can be used for fit. No matter how simple or complex a design may be, it
can instantly be visualized in any number of variations with this technology. Being that
it has an accelerated simulation engine, fabric’s most extensive details can be
visualized. All of these functionalities of the technology makes the outputs accurate not
only visually, but also fit-wise. There is an average lead time of 72 hours for a physical
sample which arrives nearly identical to the virtual one. Additionally, it allows users to
visualize 3D garments from the 2D patterns that would be used to make the physical
sample. Now designers are using the 3D sample as the standard because sample-making
differs from each vendor, and they are able to make more informed decisions. These
decisions were once based on iterations of multiple samples, but designers can now
review and update any changes right on the 3D sample. Instead of waiting for the
factory to send a different sample, it can be updated in the blink of an eye and in real-
time with this technology.

 Myth 2 :-It’s way too difficult to learn and requires too much down time

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 Fully grasping the ins and outs of 3D design solutions the process can certainly be
challenging and take some time to learn. However, they provide appropriate training
and useful assets to make this transition a seamless one that happens as quickly as
possible. For example, enterprise clients receive 3 full day workshops, post-training
modular courses, a customized curriculum, and the option to enroll in a 4-6 week
coaching program in which employees of the organization coached to also become
trainers. The time allotted in training is incomparable to the sample lead time saved
from implementing into an organization’s workflow.

 Myth 3: It might eventually take away the job

Designers, pattern-makers, and those that work in various stages of the product
development process sometimes have a misconception that with the implementation of
3D design, there might one day no longer be a need for them. Using 3D design as a part
of one’s daily workflow simply allows for more time to be creative; and once the
software is fully learned, their jobs are also made considerably easier and you will be
able to enhance and exert your expertise even further.

● Myth 4: It’s too expensive

Implementing 3D design into the organization is not cheap, but its ability to help
improve communication, increase productivity, and advance product quality truly
validates the initial investment. There is an extensive list of cost-justifying business.
Clients eventually gain that money back in cost savings from things like sample
shipment, miscommunication with factories, and redevelopment needs just to name a
few. Here users are not limited by technology and are able to exert their highest level
of creativity. The simulation and workflow of is the fastest in the industry. Speed is one
of the most important keys to a profitable future, and this technology is the enabler for
speed at its highest function.

Features of 3D solution software for sampling: -

● Unlimited design

It allows you to make styles with countless layers and intricate details. Design a variety
of garments, from a simple blouse to technical out ware with complicated pattern pieces
and constructions. It is not only limited to garment design. It can create the accessories
as well like hat, bags, wallets etc.

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● Real Time Interactivity

Instantly review changes as any modifications to 2D patterns, colors, textures and

finishing details are immediately simulated. Improve quality of designs by checking
silhouette and fit sooner in the development process, allowing sample time for
refinement before finalization.

● Easy to Use
Visualize your designs with only a few clicks. Users at any skill level or specialty can
easily become familiar with our simple and intuitive interface. Learn how to use online
with regularly updated tutorial videos and resources.

● Evolve Your Design

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 Reduce design preparation time and dive into the design process right away with
prepared blocks. Quickly sketch new designs directly on your Avatar and automatically
generate pattern pieces.

● Accurate Material

It can accurately emulate drape-sensitive fabrics such as lightweight woven and jerseys
with various material properties. Access the comprehensive library of commonly used
fabrics to immediately see design ideas. Finishing techniques, such as facings, seam
tape, and steam can be applied and removed as needed to fine-tune the fit of 3D
garments.

● Streamlining Process
Explore endless possibilities at zero cost with the ability to create unlimited graphic
placements, colorways, and engineered print layouts. Eliminate unnecessary physical
sampling and shipping costs by seeing all changes immediately on 3D samples. Get
ahead of the costing process by finalizing styles far ahead of regular production lead
times.

● Ultimate Styling

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 Display your 3D garments in numerous ways with our natural Simulation environment.
Fold and hang 3D garments to create retail environments, and review the big picture by
merchandising your collection.

● Pricing of software ClO 3D; currently most update software

They have solutions for all types of users. Their user is categorized into 3 parts such as
Individuals, small business and large enterprise.

1. Individuals: Monthly bill is 50 dollars, that is Rs.3581, which can be auto

renewed monthly and cancelled anytime. They have students discount available
with 50% off with providing authorized email address of the institute
2. Small business: Monthly bill is 600 dollars, that is Rs.42958 and yearly bill
Rs.386622, which can be auto renewed monthly and cancelled anytime.
3. Large enterprise: - They provide total business solution, that is
a. Implementing 3D design process is more than just installing a software.
b. Experience our packaged solution for your enterprise.
c. Bespoke in-person Training
d. Personalized User Support
e. Digital Transformation Consultation

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FINDINGS

A sample of the garment can either make or break the future of a company in getting orders
from their buyers. It helps in optimizing the process parameter for mass producing and also aid
in eliminating bottlenecks. It can be concluded that sampling in garment exports is of utmost
significance not just to the manufacturer but also to the buyer. In garment manufacturing
process there are various tasks that are performed repetitively. So many industries are offering
software which performs these tasks quickly & efficiently.3D sampling technologies speeds up
the sampling process and reduces the lead time of 3 months to almost a month.

The purpose of virtual sampling is to:

● Reduce sample time

● Reduce sample cost
● Increase the number of design variations to can sell more

Even though India is one of the largest garment manufactures, it is unorganized in many
sectors. This arises the many reasons to why they have not completely adapted the 3D sampling
techniques. Some of the concerns of the industries are the fast-pace of the fashion calendar
coupled with the demand for shorter lead times. It makes it difficult to set aside time to
incorporate new technology. The work hours of those involved in the product development
process are spent chasing samples, attending multiple fit sessions for numerous styles, and

18
constantly updating flat sketches and tech packs to meet the dead line. The current state of the
product development process makes it difficult for them to dedicate even a fraction of their
work hours to learning and applying 3D. Still few major export houses in the industry like,
Tilburg and Li and Fung have come to understand that 3D can drastically change the way they
work.

There are a few options available that have been put into practice by companies to address this
issue. Certain companies have opted to establish teams that specifically create 3D garments, as
well as investigate other technologies that will improve the overall product development
process. Academic institutions are also a great resource for new talent, and many schools are
beginning to incorporate 3D solutions into their design courses. Another option would be to
find the right people within the company that are open to 3D, reassign some of their tasks, and
provide the time and space for them to develop their skills in 3D, within a manageable
timeframe.

But Before a company begins, they also need to run an ROI (Return on Investment) analysis
for their virtual sampling project opportunity. Tangible calculations could be:
● Sample saving costs
● Lead time reduction costs that impact your order
● Sampling mistake coverage costs: -have to redo and resend to customers
● Potential business gain: - Make more design variation for their customers and sell
more

Intangible calculations could be:

● Company image gain: -Ability to show their customers that they have the latest
technology, and are always incurring new opportunities
● Internal moral gain :-Internal staff seeing that the company is ready for a change
which is motivating, especially for the millennials

From companies like Adidas or Nike who have successfully implemented 3D,a learning can
be derived that is, they have implemented a process flow in the sampling, design and buying
stage with not only internal staff but also external partners.

ANALYSIS
3D garment simulation has improved tremendously and is reliable in visualizing designs before
a physical proto sample is made. The technology has reached a tipping point where the virtual
expression of various garment categories, design details, and fabrics is no longer limited. It can
be used to create highly realistic images that can extend to marketing and e-commerce.
However, rolling out 3D virtual proto sampling does not have to be an abrupt, sudden end-to-
end change.

Resistance to implementing 3D virtual prototyping exists within the fashion and apparel
industry in India, but conversely, there are many companies that are adopting 3D and already

19
reaping the benefits. These companies utilize the 3D garments generated from 3D virtual
prototyping tools to increase their speed to market and obtain valuable consumer data analytics.
Sample accuracy has increased with their network of vendors and interdepartmental
communication has improved.

Focusing on a few garment categories or styles can be a great way to prove that 3D works for
a company starting to adapt this method. This can be achieved by working with a technology
partner or with existing vendors and manufacturers to pilot a new 3D process around a small,
but specific number of styles. The most important thing is to start in the early stages of apparel
design and product development and grow the 3D ecosystem from there.

Export houses in India who has already started to use this technology can further use it for
accessories development or range development of upcoming trends to showcase their collection
to their buyer with better clarification without any physical sample as well.

FUTURE SCOPE OF THE RESEARCH

Taking reference from the research paper further primary research can be done with the Indian
Textile, Apparel Production and Merchandising Industry to understand the real time problems
faced by them and making a standard process to adapt and make better multiple use of this
technology.
For the Indian Export houses already using it should, there should be research on how to use
this technology for other process like trend development for showcasing it to their buyers
without any physical sample or creating proto type of accessories like jewelries etc.

CONCLUSION

3D sampling had opened the door to a new era of apparel development and manufacturing
process. The process is more efficient, streamlined and less time-consuming. It replaces the
manual tasks with digital assets (designing, sampling and pattern making) with the opportunity
to eliminate communication errors among involved parties (design, technical, production,
vendors). Due to high competition & decentralized manufacturing many of the garment
industries in India should look forward to the software solutions provided by the companies to
streamline the processes and to overcome the challenges faced during pre-production stage of
garment manufacturing.

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REFERENCE

1. Research Papers
a. A paper on “Web based 3d garment simulation: a futuristic approach to e-
sampling” by Manoj Kumar Paras Asst. Professor, Deptt. of Fashion
Technology,NIFT, Jodhpur,
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/284900281_WEB_BASED_3D_G
ARMENT_SIMULATION_A_FUTURISTIC_APPROACH_TO_E-
SAMPLING
b. A paper on “Developing a conceptual model for restructuring apparel
sampling development process using virtual reality technology” Dr. Maged
Kamal Associate Professor, Apparel Deparhttps://www.clo3d.com/tment,
Faculty of Applied Arts - Helwan University, Egypt (January ,2015)
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:http://www.journal.f
aa-design.com/pdf/5-2-kamal.pdf
c. A paper on “Virtual tailoring for enhancing product development and sales”
by Alexandra A.M. Kuijpers, School of Materials, University of Manchester,
UK and R. Hugh Gong School of Materials, University of Manchester, UK
(19 November ,2014)
http://gfcconference.eu/files_download/GFC2014/KUIJPERS&GONG_Virtu
al_tailoring_for_enhancing_product_development_and_sales.pdf
d. A paper on “Reduce Sample Development Cost and Sample Lead Time by
3D Avatars” by Charm Rammandala ,the founder & CEO of IStrategy
USA(July ,2017)
https://www.onlineclothingstudy.com/2017/01/reduce-sample-development-
cost-and.html

2. Internet
a. https://www.clo3d.com/
b. https://www.clo3d.com/
c. https://fashionunited.uk/news/fashion/alvanon-s-3d-technology-is-
revolutionising-the-fashion-industry/2019052843398
d. https://www.sgtgroup.net/textile-quality-management-blog/how-3d-
virtual-sampling-for-softlines-is-your-apparel-brands-future
e. https://sourcingjournal.com/topics/technology/3d-virtual-samples-
apparel-speed-to-market-74269/
f. https://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/6969/sampling-in-
garment-exports-and-its-importance
g. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_o-ZcOnQj3M
h. https://pixelpool.com/5-reasons-for-3d-in-fashion/

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i. https://www.just-style.com/analysis/leveraging-the-business-benefits-of-
3d-virtual-design_id125630.aspx

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