[TC]² Bi-Weekly Technology Communicator
[TC]² Announces the First Online Avatar Application for Body Fat Estimation
and Weight Loss Visualization at imagetwin.com
By Susan Simon, [TC]²
The free predictive weight loss simulator at imagetwin.com references statistical data from over 1000 3D body scans of real people to generate a realistic 2D and 3D image from a small set of input measurements. In addition, a body fat estimate is also generated. To try it, go to: http://www.imagetwin.com/pavatar.html.
“This application is the first in a series of applications that demand ‘realistic human body images’ to provide valuable online tools for consumers,” comments Dr. David Bruner, VP of Technology Development. These technologies leverage [TC]²’s market-leading 3D body scanning technologies and data from SizeUSA – the national 3D body scanning survey conducted by [TC]². Bruner adds, “our next target for online applications at imagetwin.com are virtual dressing of your favorite fashion garment – as shown on your 3D image.”
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[TC]² Announces New Lower Cost 3D Body Scanners
By David Bruner, [TC]²
[TC]² today announced new lower pricing on its market leading NX-16 full body 3D scanner, the first full-featured 3D scanner to break the $30,000 price barrier. The NX-16 is the highest unit volume 3D scanner in the world and is utilized for apparel, health and fitness, medical, research, and entertainment applications. The NX-16 has the smallest physical size (retail dressing room size) that fits within eight foot ceiling heights. The scanner provides high accuracy, high resolution, and full body coverage from 4 angles using 16 sensors. Using safe white light technology in a private scan booth with the subject standing at floor level, the NX-16 can be integrated in any environment from retail stores, to gym and spas, to hospitals and research labs. In addition to lower pricing, [TC]²’s automatic high fidelity avatar creation feature is now integrated in the body scanner software at no cost - enabling real time creation of 3D garment visualization (virtual fashion).
Calculating Time Standards without Time Studies
at [TC]² - April 28-30
Are you paying too much to your Sewing Operators or your Supplier?
Attend Calculating Time Standards without Time Studies to learn how to calculate time standards by analyzing the motions of a sewing operation and then attaching the appropriate time values for each motion.
During this three day seminar, attendees will build piece-rates for several operations by analyzing video tapes and applying time for the appropriate auxiliary factors. Continued application of this knowledge and the data in the book Sewing Performance and Methods Analysis will allow the determination of accurate costing long before production is placed on the manufacturing floor.
May Seminar Offerings
May 5 |
Accurate Costing to Build a Profitable Supply Chain |
May 6 |
Technical Details for Seams and Stitches |
The seminars will be presented at [TC]²’s facility - 5651 Dillard Drive, Cary, NC.
For additional information or to register, contact Debra Gill at 919.653.3501, or via our contact form.
To download or print a copy of [TC]²’s seminar offerings for 2009, click here (pdf).
Fast Fashion in a Recession
At Fashion Business Incubator, California Market Center
May 28, 2009
UK’s Industry Forum, and [TC]² are joining together to present a Fast Fashion workshop for the West Coast May 28th at the Fashion Business Inc. at the California Market Center in Los Angeles. In a recessionary environment with unpredictable demand, having shorter supply chain pipelines becomes critical.
The presentations will include Fast Fashion examples of tools and techniques which have been successfully applied in Europe. [TC]² will show how Fast Fashion meets the sustainability agenda and how advances in digital technology will make processes even faster.
This workshop is a must in understanding the management processes and behavior required to achieve speed and low cost - two key criteria in a recessionary market.
AVID Ink and Lawson are Gold Sponsors of this program. The workshop has also been endorsed by the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) and IAF (International Apparel Federation).
Registration fee is $200 for the one-day program (9 a.m.-4 p.m.). For more information or to register, contact Debra Gill at 919.653-3501, or complete our contact form.
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Connecting Through Creativity, Technology and Business
Designers and Product Developers Meet the Challenge
August 12-13, 2009
Philadelphia University, Philadelphia PA
‘Connecting Through Creativity, Technology and Business’ is a symposium for professionals working in design and product development areas of the textile, apparel, home furnishings and related soft goods industries. Program attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a diverse group of experts that will address topics and issues related to:
• Sustainability
• Emerging technologies for product design, communication and production
• Product design and management within the global supply chain
• Innovation in product design
• Maintaining and/or generating creativity among designers
• Managing product cost and quality
In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to network with other professionals in the design field and discuss technologies and business strategies that support innovation, creativity, and sustainability as key factors in the development process for soft goods.
Confirmed speakers include: Duncan Ross, AVA CAD CAM; Tom McCall, TCM Group; Datacolor (speaker to be named); Joy Boutrup, Designkolen Kolding; Lisa Hayes, Drexel University; Gary Barraco, ecVision; Dani LoCastro, First2Print; Gerber Technology (speaker to be named); S. Lee and Michael Pope, Kwantlen Polytechnic University; Jill Simmons, Lectra; Trevor Little and Lisa Parillo-Chapman, North Carolina State University; Gretchen Morrisey; Marcia Weiss, Philadelphia University; Scott Constance and Kevin Schwartz, PRTM Management Consultants, Inc.; Kerry King, [TC]²; Joe Walkuski, TEXbase; Duncan Neil, University of Ulster, Belfast; and Ellen Piper.
Click here to register. For program details, click here.
Co-Produced by
[TC]², AATCC, and Philadelphia University
Corporate Social Awareness in China
By Kim Anderson, [TC]²
With over 400,000 companies in the textile and apparel sector offering quick service at extremely low cost, China has been the country that many U.S. companies choose to do business with. However, historically their labor laws have fallen below international standards—particularly in precluding workers from forming independent trade unions. China’s leaders are aware that they need to beef-up corporate social responsibility (CSR) and are taking steps in the right direction.
China’s domestic textile and apparel industry plays an important economic role. From 2002 to 2006, China's textile and apparel industry increased its labor force by 35% and increased productivity by 32%. Exports during the period rose 133%, and profits were up 164%. However, in the past year growth has slowed. Some Chinese industry executives and government officials believe that continued competitiveness is dependent on better CSR efforts, including better working conditions for employees and environmental stewardship.
Du Yuzhou, President of the China National Textile & Apparel Council, expressed his concerns at a recent industry forum—“we need to reform the textile and apparel industry from just being big into being a real powerhouse." Sun Ruizhe, Vice President of the association, was a little more specific—“corporate social responsibility will be critical in improving the industry and making it more competitive with our European and American counterparts.” Sun said international buyers and trade partners are increasingly concerned with social issues, and China's garment and textile manufacturers need to address their demands. With the growing global attention on workers' rights and environmental issues, pressure is increasing.
In 2000, the UN Secretary, General Kofi Annan, launched The Global Compact—a voluntary initiative that laid out 10 principles in 4 categories—Human Rights, Labor Standards, Environment and Anti-Corruption. In 2001, China introduced The Global Compact—signaling a growing willingness among Chinese businesses and the government to engage in international values.
On March 28, 2006, the China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC) began the CSC9000T pilot project with the participation of 10 large enterprises. The first step of the process—"initial evaluation, training and re-evaluation"—began in April 2006. The main goal of the project was to create a supportive environment for CSR development throughout China by setting examples so that local textile and apparel enterprises could follow and promote positive competition through improved hiring practices, management systems and self-discipline.
By the end of 2006, all 10 pilot enterprises had completed initial evaluation and training. The re-valuation stage began last April. The re-valuation stage examines whether problems identified during the initial evaluation have been solved.
The CNTAC released its 2007 industrial corporate social responsibility report, which detailed the development of CSC9000T implementation in 2006. This report marked the first, and so far, the only, CSR industrial guideline in China.
The consensus among all companies is that CSR programs cost money. Rising labor costs have already sullied China’s notorious reputation as the “go-to” place for cheap labor. Incorporating CSR programs will entail improved management and better working conditions, which may mean even higher costs. But, Chinese industry leaders believe that CSR programs will ultimately result in a competitive advantage for companies and pay off in the form of worker loyalty and customer satisfaction.
Several Chinese companies are already engaged in CSR programs. Although they report that incorporating international guidelines for working conditions has increased cost by 30%, they have also found that better conditions have saved money in recruiting, hiring and training new employees.
Of course, Chinese textile and apparel industries still have a way to go. Nike, the world's biggest sneaker and sportswear maker, recently found falsified documents, underage workers and unpaid wages at one of their suppliers in China. China is Nike's largest single sourcing country, with some 180 manufacturers and about 210,000 employees.
The Oregon-based company's difficulties highlight some of the problems businesses face in manufacturing in China, particularly at a time of sharply rising costs and a stiffening legal environment.
For years, U.S. apparel and textile companies have been criticized for their business practices abroad. Labor groups and consumers have continued to put pressure on U.S. companies to do business with offshore suppliers that pay fair wages and do not abuse the country’s labor force. The CSR efforts being made by Chinese textile and apparel companies are a positive signal and a step in the right direction that might begin to put some companies a little more at ease.
References
McLaughlin, Kathleen E. Social Awareness is Focus of China's Industry Leaders. WWD: Women's Wear Daily, 12/19/2007, Vol. 194 Issue 129, p12
Global Sourcing and The Green Supply Chain: Will Environmental Groups Target Western Companies over Pollution Issues in Chinese Manufacturing? By SC Digest Editorial Staff
IR 2008: Maximizing the Impact of CSR in China.
http://hrichina.org/public/PDFs/CRF.3.2006/CRF-2006-3_IR2008-CSR.pdf
Jennifer Juergens, Social Awareness is Focus of China’s Industry Leaders.
This article is based on research gathered from the references cited. It is written with no political agenda, but rather with a sincere desire to bring awareness to a globally challenging problem.
[TC]² Activity
[TC]² Annual Meeting of Members
and the Board of Directors
April 14, 2009
By Karen Davis, [TC]²
Chairman Peter Butenhoff greeted the 35 plus board members, member company representatives and guests to the annual meeting. President and CEO Dr. Michael Fralix reviewed the day’s packed agenda and introduced the guests and new attendees or those that had not been in attendance for some time. Two new member companies were recognized – Edge of Urge and Samara Innovations. Edge of Urge is a boutique and an independent design label specializing in products that are handmade, innovative, and creatively crafted. Samara Innovations is a start-up company that is developing a medical garment.
The nominations for new Board members were presented by Chairman Butenhoff, and approved by the Board. New Board members include John Crisco of Asheboro Elastics, replacing Keith Crisco; Chris DeSoiza of Milliken & Company, replacing David Moody; Janet Rivett-Carnac of Gap, Inc., replacing Jeff Frye; and Steve Jesseph, of WRAP. Chuck Nesbit of Chico’s FAS has been appointed Vice Chairman of [TC]² - all other company officers remain the same.
Dr. Fralix presented a financial review of [TC]²’s performance for the past five years, and put forth the budget for 2009, which was approved by the Board.
Speakers included Auggie Tantillo of SRG & Associates, who discussed the Congressional appropriations process. The 2009 budget was finalized in March, and information is being collected for 2010 appropriations. There is greater scrutiny in the earmark system, and [TC]² welcomes questions and review of its research initiatives which impart value to the more than 500,000 employees in the U.S. soft goods industry.
Kevin Burke of AAFA discussed free trade agreements, such as the Panama Free Trade Agreement, and the enactment of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, which was designed to remove lead from children’s toys, but has been expanded to include removing lead from all products. This has had a negative effect on inventory that can’t be sold, due to items like buttons, zippers, and appliqués. The products can’t even be given to a charity because of the lead issue. Other pending legislation is the Employee Free Choice Act, known as “card check” – which would eliminate the secret ballot process for unionization voting. The Affordable Footwear Act would reduce duties on lower priced footwear, and allow people to buy inexpensive products at a lower price.
Steve Jesseph of WRAP explained his organization’s mission to establish standards and to certify off-shore manufacturers who provide proper working conditions for its employees.
[TC]²’s David Bruner spoke about the demand for digital humans, or avatars, for use in online communities and other 3D applications. An avatar engine has been created that can be utilized by individuals who do not have access to a scanner. It includes a weight loss visualization application.
Kerry King continued the discussion on 3D applications with product development, textile printing and coloration. Yuhan-Kimberly has recently supplied an upgraded digital printer which has higher speed capabilities and improved printhead technology. Some samples of printing done on cationic cotton were shown. [TC]² is working with AATCC and Philadelphia University to conduct a program at Philadelphia University in August.
Dave Gardner of SPESA discussed SPESA Expo 2010, which will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta May 18-20. It will co-locate with Techtextil North America and ATME-I/Megatex exhibitions. One badge will provide admission to all three shows, and the three shows will cover fiber through the retail supply chain.
Dr. Blan Godfrey and Erin Smith of North Carolina State University discussed current programs at NCSU. Smith is involved with the Entrepreneurship program, which is reaching outside the university to K-12 for summer camps with science and math classes, and graduate programs at the Ph.D. level. A new dorm is being built for students in the entrepreneurship curriculum, which will include “The Garage” – a 24/7 work space to cultivate ideas and new product development. Dr. Godfrey highlighted new technologies at NCSU, including electro-active fibers which can create artificial muscles or even grow new organs; new fabrics that include anti-microbial properties as well as wiring for hospital gowns to aid in monitoring patient vitals; and the Composites Manufacturing Center which is being built in Kinston at the Global Trans Park. They are working on the next airbus, created from composite materials. A new fashion design degree has been added to the curriculum at NCSU, which uses the SizeUSA data for apparel product development.
Susan Nichols of Apparel magazine moderated a panel of retailers to discuss innovative projects at each company. The panel included Laura Rowen of Brooks Brothers, Chuck Nesbit of Chico’s FAS, Keith Burchett of JCPenney, and Diana Leonard of Jockey. Each company representative talked about how important company culture is to welcome employee input for new innovations, because the employees are a key resource for ideas and expertise in their specific areas. Innovation Fairs at JCPenney have resulted in products such as UV protected swimwear, permanent fabric softener in sheets, and anti-static tights. Jockey has launched initiatives in sustainability and looks not at just first tier suppliers, but second and third tier to ensure product quality. It reviews international licensees, invests in software, and uses communication and multi-functional teams to know the consumer. An open forum is maintained for all employees. Laura Rowen of Brooks Brothers mentioned a recent warehouse event, where suits were sold at unheard-of prices to liquidate inventory, provide an infusion of cash, and to create good will with its client base. To promote its Made in America offerings, Brooks Brothers recently acquired Southwick Clothiers, and has moved the operation to a new manufacturing facility in Lawrence, MA. Southwick joins the existing tie factory in Sunnyside, NY, and the Garland Shirt Factory in North Carolina. Chico’s Soma Division has listened to its consumers and has created a new wash and go bra that can be machine washed and dried, rather than the normal hand wash, line dry instructions provided for most bras. The company has also introduced a Cool Nights line of sleepwear, which features moisture wicking properties.
Roxy Starr of Shapely Shadow demonstrated the company’s Fast Fit 360° product which can capture a 360° video of a garment that can be viewed by multiple suppliers frame-by-frame. Viewing the garments in such a manner reduces the need for sampling, and speeds the product development process when dealing with different time zones. Files can be annotated with comments and a trail of approvals is included in the file to improve recordkeeping and reduce the need for hard copies. Fast Fit 360° will be added to [TC]²’s demonstration center.
Will Duncan introduced representatives of CHF International, an organization that works with low-income countries to help them become economically, socially and environmentally self-sufficient. The current initiative is to help the Haitian apparel industry, which is geographically convenient to the U.S. and enjoys duty-free status to aid in its desirability as a manufacturing resource.
Peter Butenhoff closed the meeting with thanks to all the presenters and [TC]² staff for coordination of the event.
Sponsor Profile - AVID Ink
By Karen Davis, [TC]²
AVID Ink is a pioneer in sublimation printing, design, and transferring. The company pushes the limits of sublimation design, printing, and heat transfer technology to create new ways of bringing art and textiles together. With unmatched quality, customer service and fashion-minded innovations, AVID Ink delivers products that meet the ever-changing demands of today’s consumer.
Founded in 1997 by Robert Davis (CEO), AVID started business in the action sports industry by providing sublimation print technology on snowboards and wakeboards with one heat transfer machine. The company sourced sublimation paper printing from East Coast suppliers and was faced with three main challenges: low quality, long lead times for deliveries, and high cost for volume purchased. AVID Ink has grown to be a full-service sublimation company with high standards of integrity, quality, service and delivery, and value. It focuses on four key areas:
• Art and Trend Creation/Graphic Design
• Digital and Offset Printing
• Heat Transfer Production
• Customer Service
Its 70,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Corona, CA contains state-of-the-art offset sublimation print production, large-scale printing equipment with CTP (Computer to Plate) pre-press technology, digital sublimation print capabilities, and a high volume transferring center with18 transferring machines. It is capable of producing a wide range of runs from small to extremely large volumes.
The company’s art department houses innovative designers with a library of 19,000+ open line designs. The printing and production facilities include state-of-the-art pre-press department, digital printing equipment, and VLF (Very Large Format) offset printing presses specifically modified for AVID Ink’s proprietary print process, supported by AVID’s color profile library to deliver the highest color accuracy. Certified Placement Engineers undergo extensive training to ensure quality and placement accuracy of artwork at point of heat transfer application. AVID’s team of Certified Customer Service Project Managers effectively work to understand the unique needs of each client and guarantee that products are delivered on time and true to design.
Because of the advancements in service and sublimation print technology, AVID Ink has become the largest vertical sublimation print company in the United States. AVID Ink is focused on the immediate need manufacturers have based on limited lead time, and concentrates its efforts to be the premier source for “just in time”, domestic sublimation print manufacturing that AVID Ink’s customers require.
[TC]² gratefully acknowledges AVID Ink’s Gold sponsorship of the Fast Fashion event at Fashion Business Inc. in the California Market Center on May 28th in Los Angeles.
Important Dates
April
21-23 |
Material World, Miami Convention Center. For information or to register, go to |
21-24 |
IMB 2009, Cologne. For details, visit www.imb-cologne.com. |
22-24 |
Peru Moda, Lima, Peru. For information, go to www.perumoda.com. |
23 |
PLM for the Fashion Industry, Presented by Zweave. [TC]²’s Tim Curran is a guest speaker. Visit www.zweave.com/webinar to register. |
28-30 |
Calculating Time Standards without Time Studies; seminar at [TC]² . For details, click here. |
29-May 2 |
SEAMS Spring Meeting, Myrtle Beach, for more information www.seams.org. |
May
5 |
Accurate Costing to Build a Profitable Supply Chain; seminar at [TC]² . For details, click here. |
6 |
Seams and Stitches – the Technical Details; seminar at [TC]² . For details, click here. |
12-14 |
FESPA Digital Europe, in Amsterdam. Go to www.fespadigital.com for conference information. |
19-21 |
Apparel Sourcing Show- Guatemala, for more information http://www.apparelexpo.com/apss |
28 |
Fast Fashion in a Recession, Los Angeles, for more information click here (pdf). |
For detailed information about industry events, visit www.techexchange.com
Thanks to the techexchange site sponsors
Apparel Magazine, Gerber Technology, Lawson, Lectra, Methods Workshop and Reach Technologies.
A Look Ahead in the Newsletter
PeruModa
View previous editions of this newsletter
[TC]²
5651 Dillard Drive
Cary , NC 27518
www.tc2.com
Phone: 919-380-2156
Fax: 919-380-2181
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