[TC]² Bi-Weekly Technology Communicator

DNA Interactif Fashion of Belgium and [TC]² Announce Partnership

By Dr. David Bruner, [TC]²

“After searching worldwide for body scanning virtual fashion solutions, DNA Interactif Fashion is excited to partner with [TC]² in the body scanning virtual fashion arena to deliver real time fashion visualizations for consumers to enhance the overall shopping experience," comments Huub Fijen of DNA. “Within 2009 we plan to open our own demonstration center to deploy our solution to key apparel retailers in Belgium including Offshore Legends and Baldutti."

[TC]² is pleased to announce DNA Interactif as its first customer for its retail virtual fashion solution with 3D body scanning.  [TC]² and DNA Interactif will initially have a limited but growing exclusive arrangement in Europe and Asia as their deployments expand geographically. 

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[TC]² Announces Virtual Fashion Retail Interface for NX-16 3D Body Scanners

Due to popular demand [TC]² is extending the virtual fashion capability announced in 2008 for its 3D body scanning hardware/software solutions (http://www.tc2.com/news/virtualfash.html) by adding a retail interface and the ability to support 3D content from a wide cross-section of 3D apparel application providers.

The key new elements being announced for summer 2009 are:

-  Consumer interface for retail environments
-  Support of integration of 3D garment content from most market sources
-  Virtual Fashion in animated 3D

“In order to effectively support virtual dressing from 3D body scans in retail environments, you have to be able to support hundreds of possible garment selections and be able to generate those on the consumer’s 3D body scan-based avatar in real time. To meet those needs a garment database for content has been added.  In addition, an easy-to-use interface is implemented to allow the consumer to choose which content to view on their 3D body scan avatar,” states [TC]² ‘s Susan Simon.

“Equally important in this announcement is the open architecture strategy to support retailer 3D garment content from virtually any source including such providers as Browzwear, Lectra, Optitex, and Tukatech. Also, 3D content from generic high-end 3D packages such as 3D Studio Max and Maya can be supported,” adds David Bruner.
 
“The virtual fashion visualization capability is being extended to include not only static 3D views of the garment on the consumer’s avatar, but to also view it in animated runway scenes or in multiple poses more flattering to the presentation of the garment on the body.”

The key differentiator in [TC]²’s fashion visualization technology is that the garment is morphed onto the body in 3D in real time, rather than through simulated draping, so that the consumer can quickly try on many garments.   

Live online demonstrations of these new technologies can be seen as part of the SizeUSA User Group Webinar on August 18th. Register for this event by contacting Debra Gill at 919-653-3501 or use our contact form.

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Register Now! August Event Quickly Approaching!

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; Andrew Vermeulen, Carole Hochman Design Group; Ken Butts, Datacolor; Joy Boutrup, Designkolen Kolding; Lisa Hayes, Drexel University; Thomas Ng, ecVision; Danielle Locastro, First2Print; Gerber Technology (speaker to be named); S. Lee and Michael Pope, Kwantlen Polytechnic University; Jill Simmons, Lectra; Lisa Parillo-Chapman, North Carolina State University; Gretchen Morrisey, MorriseyDesign LLC; Marcia Weiss, Philadelphia University; Kevin Schwartz, PRTM Management Consultants, Inc.; Tim Curran and Kerry King, [TC]²; Joe Walkuski, TEXbase; Suzanne Tick, Suzanne Tick, Inc.; Tom McCall, TCM Group; Duncan Neil, University of Ulster, Belfast; and Ellen Piper.

On Wednesday evening from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. there will be suppliers' reception with tabletop displays.  A 6’ draped display table can be reserved through Peggy Pickett, AATCC, at 919.549.3533.

Click here to register. For program details, click here.

Co-Produced by
[TC]², AATCC, and Philadelphia University

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Seminar Offerings at [TC]²

August and September Seminars

The seminars will be presented at [TC]²’s facility - 5651 Dillard Drive, Cary, NC.

For additional information on these programs or to register, contact Debra Gill at 919.653.3501, or use our contact form.

To download or print a copy of [TC]²’s 2009 seminar offerings, click here (pdf).

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5th Annual SizeUSA User Group Meeting
August 18, 2009 - 12 to 2 p.m. EST
**New Online Webinar Format**

The 2009 SizeUSA User’s Group Meeting will be presented via webinar format to allow for more attendee participation by eliminating the need for travel. The following presentations have been confirmed to date:

The program time will also include a special demonstration of [TC]²’s new Virtual Fashion Technologies for Garment Visualization in Static Poses and Animated Sequences.

Register for this event by contacting Debra Gill at 919-653-3501 or use our contact form. Registration is free for SizeUSA members and owners of [TC]² 3D body scanning systems. A registration fee of $50 will be charged to all other participants.

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Fabric Technology du Jour

By Kim Anderson, [TC]²

To be successful apparel companies need to be innovative. Innovation allows them to differentiate their products and become more competitive. Researchers are paving the way to some incredible developments that will enable apparel companies to be on the forefront of cutting edge technology.

Single Layer Thermal Fabrics
Thermally insulated fabrics are materials that are used to reduce the rate of heat transfer. Most garments achieve thermal insulation by layering a combination of fabrics in areas where thermal stability is desired. Layered fabrics increase the weight and bulkiness of the garment which can adversely affect comfort. In addition, layering fabrics within a garment can increase the cost and make garment assembly more challenging.

MIMI-IPCO, located in Lawrence, Massachusetts, has developed a single layer fabric which provides thermal insulation. Not only does the fabric provide thermal stability but it is also capable of providing different levels of insulation throughout the garment.

The fabric utilizes a pile construction which is composed of a “smart yarn.” The smart yarn is based on phase change technology which allows it to react to its environment. Phase change materials were first used by NASA to enable astronauts to withstand extreme temperatures—both hot and cold. Phase change materials have the ability to store excess heat as it is created and release it as it's needed.

The smart yarn is composed of two polymers that lengthen at different rates when exposed to heat. When the two polymers change length there is a change in the three-dimensional configuration of the pile which alters the bulk of the fabric, resulting in increased thermal insulation. The pile height can be varied. In areas where more insulation is needed the pile height is designed to be higher. Areas where the loop is high generate greater bulk and increased thermal insulation. Areas with lower pile height, or no pile, create less or no bulk and therefore provide high breathability to increase cooling. 

By utilizing this technology, garments can be engineered to suit the activity of the wearer—keeping selected areas of the body warm while other areas are cooled by evaporation. The technology is also expected to have potential benefits in other products such as bedding and upholstery products.

The Ultimate Waterproof Fabric
Nanotechnology continues to map out new territory when it comes to performance fabrics. Lead researcher Stefan Seeger at the University of Zurich has developed a fabric finish that brings new meaning to the word water repellent. Tests show that after being submerged underwater for two months the fabric emerges dry to the touch.

A layer of extremely hydrophobic silicone nano-filaments gives the fabric its ultra water resistant properties. Trapped air between the spiky structured nano-filaments further prevents water droplets from penetrating the fabric. Drops of water stay as spherical balls on top of the fabric and roll off when the fabric surface is tilted just 2 degrees from a horizontal plane. A jet of water will bounce off the fabric without leaving a trace.

Water repellent finishes protect fabrics from rotting or deteriorating, and inhibit the growth of microorganisms. This new nano-filament coating also can reduce drag in water by as much as 20%. The low-drag properties are ideal for athletic swimwear.

The coating has been successfully applied to a variety of fibers—including wool, viscose and cotton. The best water repellent results have been on polyester.

Unlike some water-resistant coatings, the nano-finish remains fairly intact when the surface is rubbed vigorously. However, the nano-coating deteriorates with home laundering. There are four components in home laundering that can adversely affect finishes. Detergent, water, heat, agitation or a combination can affect some finishes. It is unclear which component or components are degrading the nano-finish. It is apparent that more work is needed to improve wash-fastness.  

Hydrophobic Fabrics Turn Hydrophilic
Although polyester and nylon are renowned for their strength and durability, their hydrophobic characteristics make them relatively uncomfortable to wear. A durable finish has been developed that transforms their characteristics from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. The new treatment not only makes the fabric hydrophilic but also improves wettability, breathability and handle without affecting strength and durability.

The treatment was developed by Nano-Tex, located in Oakland, California. The finish is based on nano-technology and is durable for at least 50 home launderings. In addition to apparel, other potential end uses include home furnishings, medical and industrial products.

References
Innovations in Fibres, Textiles, Apparel and Machinery. “Textile Outlook International” November-December 2008.

Jon Evans. Newscientists Tech. Nanotech clothing fabric 'never gets wet'
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn16126-nanotech-clothing-fabric-never-gets-wet.html.

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[TC]² Activity
American Apparel and Footwear Association
Human Resources Leadership Council

By Karen Davis, [TC]²

The AAFA Human Resources Leadership Council develops and implements programs that will assist AAFA member companies in all areas of personnel policies, both domestic and global. It encourages and provides guidance to member firms in establishing leadership development programs. The Council establishes a suggested curriculum for colleges and universities who have degree programs in apparel and textiles. The Council conducts a review of each school’s program for accreditation. A web site, www.careerthreads.com, contains information on colleges that teach the recommended curriculum and a page with links to member company web sites for employment opportunities.

The American Apparel Education Foundation (AAEF) was created over 30 years ago. The purpose of the Foundation is to promote the advancement of knowledge and understanding of the apparel industry in the areas of product development, finance, marketing, human resources, production management, apparel engineering, technology and other subjects related to improved efficiency and the development and acceleration of sustainability and economic growth in the industry.  Over the years, the Foundation has raised several million dollars for student scholarships in apparel management and production programs.

Colleges whose programs have been endorsed by the AAEF are:  Auburn University, Buffalo State University, Cal Poly Pomona, FIDM, FIT, George Brown College, Iowa State University, North Carolina State University, Oklahoma State University, Philadelphia University, University of Missouri-Columbia, University of North Carolina-Greensboro, and the University of Wisconsin-Stout. 

The council recently met to plan its agenda for the remainder of the year and to conduct curriculum reviews. The next event is a Fall program in Los Angeles on September 16 and 17 hosted by The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.  The first day will feature a product development and technical design symposium and the second day will be the HRLC 10th Annual Summit.

[TC]²’s Will Duncan is Chairman of the HRLC group.  Duncan comments, “The HR Leadership Council serves numerous purposes for the industry, providing a forum to share best practices and develop programs in the areas of recruitment, internships, training, organizational and policy development, health and safety, and community relations. It provides an excellent networking opportunity for its members."

Membership in the council is made up of HR executives, educators and managers in the areas of operations, product development, training and customer support. To learn more about the September symposium or council participation, contact Maureen Storch, AAFA, at 919.797.9047, or email mstorch@apparelandfootwear.org.

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Member Profile - The Marena Group

By Karen Davis, [TC]²

The Marena Group, of Lawrenceville, GA, is a manufacturer of compression garments for the plastic surgery (post-operative) and shapewear industries. Its ComfortWear® brand includes everything from bras and girdles to facial wear, vests and post-surgical exercise wear, and a wide range of ladies’ and men’s body shaping activewear.

Marena’s ComfortWear uses patented, F5-certified fabric called ComfortWeave®. F5-certified fabrics are engineered for true medical benefits, promoting lymphatic drainage resulting in less edema and reduction of the appearance of cellulite to help the wearer feel more energized. ComfortWear garments provide therapeutic compression invisibly to the neurophysiology of the wearer so that patients can comfortably tolerate high compression for continuous wear.

ComfortWear garments are specially designed to provide not only medical grade compression, but also to enhance the wearer's healing and slimming experience. Beginning with the fibers, F5-certifed ComfortWeave fabric is knit using leading edge Invista® fibers, Soft Lycra® and TACTEL® nylon. With its high moisture management performance, ComfortWeave fibers fulfill COOLMAX® standards of enhanced breathability, differentiating it from other fabrics like powernet, that use standard, rigid nylon fibers. Being F5-certified, ComfortWeave is also tested for antimicrobial protection and is guaranteed to perform for the life of the garment.

Marena’s body shaping activewear line, coined Marena Everyday, was introduced in 2007 for men and women.  It is designed for daily wear that instantly slims, flattens and enhances the body (breast, stomach, waist, hip, thigh, buttock, leg, and all other body areas).

The Marena Group was formed in 1994 by Bill and Vera Watkins. From its two-person operation, it has expanded to more than 80 employees. The company continues on a growth pattern to consistently expand and improve as a leading niche apparel manufacturer serving several specialties.  A positive customer experience with complete satisfaction and confidentiality are the hallmark of every transaction.  Marena’s products are sold in North America and 63 countries around the world through doctors’ offices, surgery clinics and hospitals, as well as through direct transactions with patients and consumers.

In 1999, The Marena Foundation was formed to positively impact the local community as well as to support two missions based in the Dominican Republic.  The Pay It Forward Program in Georgia helps single mothers in need in the local community.

Apparel magazine recognized The Marena Group as its 2006 Grand All-Star award winner among ten other nominees for its track record of growth, excellence in management, innovation, and corporate goodwill that reflects positively on the sewn products industry.

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Important Dates

July

August

September

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.

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A Look Ahead in the Newsletter



ColombiaModa
Connecting Through Creativity

View previous editions of this newsletter

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[TC]²
5651 Dillard Drive
Cary , NC 27518
www.tc2.com
Phone: 919-380-2156
Fax: 919-380-2181

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