[TC]² Technology Communicator
[TC]² Announces new Super Low Cost
3D Body Scanning Solutions for 2012
By Dr. David Bruner, [TC]²
At the recent international 3D body scanning conference in Lugano, Switzerland, [TC]² announced two new 3D body scanning solutions which completely reshapes the consumer and retail 3D scanning landscape for 2012.
First, scanning the body with a single low cost depth sensor such as the Microsoft Kinect device was demonstrated live at the conference. Using 15 years of body scanning experience, [TC]² has been able to leverage a single depth sensor (see image below) data to image people in just seconds and create measurements with sufficient accuracy to enable multiple applications including:
- Accurate apparel size selection of stock sizes |
Video Link: http://youtu.be/eAvsO6O8_ek
Brochure Link: http://www.tc2.com/pdf/kinect.pdf
[TC]² is conducting field trials now with the single Kinect application for sizing and virtual fashion with a planned commercial launch in early 2012.
The second 3D scanning announcement was a new full body 3D scanning product for 2012, the KX-16, which also leverages low cost depth sensors to create a changing room size scanner with the same high quality characteristics as the market leading [TC]² NX-16 full body scanner, but for the first time breaking the $10,000 USD price barrier. A portable model of the KX-16 is also planned. In addition, [TC]² will be releasing a "reference design" package for the KX-16 for those who wish to assemble their own scan booths, but utilize them with the [TC]² Body Measurement System software. The KX-16 will be available in the first half of 2012.
KX-16 3D Body Scanner
Video Link: http://youtu.be/9Gz_ZlZzGBk
Brochure Link: http://www.tc2.com/pdf/kx16.pdf
[TC]² Launches ImageTwinSolutions Web site for Virtual Fashion,
Sizing, and Weight Loss Visualization on line and on Smartphones
By Dr. David Bruner, [TC]²
Complementing [TC]²’s new 3D body scanning announcements, ImageTwinSolutions.com has been updated for compatibility with all sources of 3D body scans (including manual measures) and for smartphone platforms. Now supporting full body scan data, low cost depth sensor scans, and manual measurements, [TC]² has reached its goal of providing apparel sizing and visualization solutions that can be accessed by the full population. Stay tuned to ImageTwinSolutions for more garment content coming early in 2012.
[TC]² Accepted for Exclusive Microsoft Program
By Karen Davis, [TC]²
For all of its work with low cost depth sensors like the Microsoft Kinect, [TC]² has been awarded acceptance into the Microsoft Kinect for Windows Technology Adoption Program (TAP).
The TAP program gives early and direct access to Microsoft support staff for the Kinect device and provides co-marketing opportunities.
“We are excited to be part of the TAP program as it will only serve to improve the compatibility and quality of our Kinect-based products,” commented David Bruner.
Seminar Topic: Why is it so hard to find a pair of pants that fit?
By Elizabeth White, [TC]²
Many people have asked this question, from consumers to technical designers to retailers. Participants in [TC]² seminars have repeatedly requested a fit seminar for pants. Of course, there were many related issues - identifying fit issues, tracing the causes of fit issues, communicating fit issues, correcting fit issues, making sure that every customer can find a fit within the size range while keeping the cost down, and creating examples and exercises directly applicable to the brand owners’ product lines . . . leading to a very tall order for one seminar to fill!
Read the entire article at techexchange.com.
[TC]² 2012 Seminar Schedule
January 9-10 How to Build a Tech Pack
February 6-10 Introduction to Apparel Manufacturing
February 13-15 Pattern Development
March 5-7 Grading for Fit
March 26-27 Fit for Retailers: Pants
Descriptions for programs can be found at http://www.tc2.com/pdf/coursecatalog.pdf.
The small class size of [TC]² seminars guarantees individual attention and participant networking to enhance the learning process. Seminars will be held at [TC]², 5651 Dillard Drive, Cary, NC.
For additional information or to register, contact Debra Gill via telephone at 919.653.3501 or use our contact form.
[TC]² Activity
Study Mission for Hong Kong Productivity Council
By Karen Davis, [TC]²
During the week of October 31-November 4, [TC]² hosted a contingent from the Hong Kong Productivity Council for a training program on advanced technologies for textile and apparel manufacturing.
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), headquartered in Kowloon, was established in 1967 to promote productivity excellence, a more effective utilization of resources, to enhance the value-added content of products and services, and to increase international competitiveness.
The group was led by Carol Chan and Sam Ho of HKPC, and included representatives from large organizations such as Marks & Spencer and Esquel, and companies who manufacture knitwear and woven garments, performance ski wear, swimwear, and baby products such as educational toys, carriers and bedding for European and US brands.
In addition to programs presented by [TC]² staff on topics including 3D technologies, sustainable product development, product lifecycle management, product costing, digital printing, and lean manufacturing, attendees visited the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC), Cotton Incorporated, and North Carolina State University’s College of Textiles.
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| HKPC Delegation with Dr. Trevor Little, NCSU | Geni Hui Han Dan of CRT Innovative Ltd. presents a gift to Len Farias, Senior Textile Chemist, Dyeing Research of Cotton Incorporated following the tour |
On the final day, a panel of industry experts moderated by Kerry King discussed business strategies and current issues in China such as escalating labor rates and currency fluctuations which have initiated a search for other manufacturing opportunities in Asia. Panel participants included Chuck Millsaps, Great Outdoor Provision Company; Ali Khalifa, Gamil Design; Chuck Stewart, Tumbling Colors; and David Earley, Cotton Incorporated. Millsaps explained his company’s business plan to identify brands and specific products within the brands to carry in their seven stores, which feature performance garments. Khalifa provided insight into challenges and opportunities working with overseas manufacturers from a product development perspective. Khalifa is a 2012 recipient of the Eisenhower Fellowship, which is awarded to emerging leaders. The USA program provides overseas exposure of 4-5 weeks designed to enhance Fellows’ professional and personal growth, develop new contacts, and promote the exchange of ideas and international understanding. Fellows have meetings with leaders in their field, as well as cultural site visits and hospitality by local citizens. Khalifa was chosen to represent the Research Triangle, North Carolina area. Stewart’s company provides small scale dyeing and finishing capabilities and assists companies with the textile color development process. Stewart is currently completing a Ph.D. within the College of Textiles at NCSU where he is focusing on sustainability issues surrounding the coloration process. He states that Tumbling Colors typically works on developing colors that won’t make it to retail for 12-18 months. David Earley discussed Cotton Incorporated’s role in research and promotion of cotton products from US manufacturers and importers. While there is a trend toward more organic products, many consumers are not willing to spend more money to purchase the organic garment.
A variety of themes were discussed during this forum. Participants stated that we need to stop thinking of apparel as products, but rather as a service. Alternatively, we might think of a leasing arrangement for the product and replace the item as it deteriorates. Participants pointed to Patagonia’s recycling program and Chuck Millsaps talked about their receptacle for recycling at the Great Outdoor Provision Company. Khalifa emphasized that consumers can have an emotional connection to a product produced locally. An example of this concept is Etsy.com, which is a cottage industry of homemade products in small quantities from a variety of suppliers. In this context, the products become a story and there’s a connection to the product.
Improvements in cotton growing and new product developments incorporating cotton were discussed. New seeds are being grown with better drought-resistant properties. Globally, the water use by cotton is about 3%. There are initiatives, such as one developed by Under Armour, to introduce cotton technologies in their product offerings.
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| Industry panelists David Earley, Cotton Inc.; Chuck Stewart, Tumbling Colors; Ali Khalifa, Gamil Design; and Chuck Millsaps, Great Outdoor Provision Co. |
Participants receive certificates at the end of the program from [TC]² staff. |
[TC]² Activity
[TC]² Board of Directors Meeting
November 11, 2011
By Karen Davis, [TC]²
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Chuck Nesbit with a welcome to all attendees and guests, and a Veterans Day recognition. He reviewed the full agenda, and mentioned the passing of Steve Jobs less than 30 days prior, who was a person to seize technology and elevate it in ways no one had considered. A Champion of innovation is a great calling, and [TC]² has such people in its organization.
Mike Fralix followed with a discussion of the company’s budget year-to-date, and a review of investments. Mike was recently at a Lectra program and the Apparel Business Leadership Conference in New York, and was humbled by the number of people coming up to him to comment at [TC]²’s reputation in the industry as a leader in technology innovation.
Auggie Tantillo of SRG Associates discussed the US government’s struggle over the need to reduce spending. A committee of Senate and House representatives was put together to produce a proposal for review and approval. There are strong positions on both sides, and if an agreement is reached, legislation will be sent to both houses for approval, and then the President must sign it.
David Bruner outlined the consolidated research being done by his group on 3D body scanning, virtual fashion, and an online avatar engine. We continue to work on a new body scanner using the Microsoft Kinect motion controller for the Xbox. [TC]² is the world leader in units shipped, and we sell the measurement extraction software to use with other body scanners. There are 170 locations now, and there were over 60 retails events in 2011. The KX-16 is the new model, which we hope to have out by mid 2012.
We are working on a single Kinect device focused on scanning in body wear, and it has been launched on imagetwinsolutions.com. Its applications are apparel related, with the exception of a weight loss app. Apparel is the Number One product sold on the web. QR codes are rapidly evolving that you can use with a Smartphone. On Oct. 17th over 900 people viewed the weight loss app.
In the last six months custom suits have been made available at sixty Costco locations. Men’s custom suits are the biggest application for the 3D body scanner. We participated in a JCPenney Innovation Day, which is set up for employees to bring in cool technologies. We were voted the best technology at the event. In October we presented at a 3D event in Switzerland, and scanned 60 people out of 200 attendees.
We have formed a partnership with Spacevision of Japan to distribute their product in the US with our measurement extraction software. We are working on new developments with major technology companies using a single Kinect for virtual fashion and size selection. Sales have increased, and pricing has decreased.
Will Duncan followed with a review of Industry Services activities. The Haiti Apparel Center was opened in July 2009 in partnership with CHF to develop the curriculum and to establish linkages with brands. For the past 18 months we have been doing operator training and train-the-trainer programs. The project was completed on Sept. 30th having trained 20 trainers, 1600 students, 1246 of whom graduated. In a Train to Efficiency program, there are 8 trainers, and 80 operators have completed the program. Six Master Trainers were sent out to factories. Additionally, 3 trainers were designated for quality training, 120 inspectors and 200+ executive and middle managers have gone through seminars. Will recognized Jack Nienke, Wanda Bianchini, and Guy Carpenter for their efforts in Haiti.
Domestically, we are working with the Cotton Council, Elite Sportswear, workshops for Talbots, and a lean manufacturing implementation for the Henson Group in Pennsylvania that is state funded. We are completing PLM implementations for New Generation Computing. Educational program participation is increasing, and a new program on Pants Fit for Brands and Retailers has been launched. We are engaged in industry events to disseminate information.
Kerry King discussed the re-launch of the Techexchange.com web site, which is a resource for technology information. There is a technology watch and webinar series with a recent webinar on ITMA technology news. We are engaged in webinars partnering with AATCC.
At ITMA in Barcelona Kerry noted increased efficiencies, processing time in digital print technologies. Digital solutions were dominant, that are more robust and production-oriented. Kyocera showed a single pass printer with 8 print bars. There are new inks combining reactive and acid dyes, and technology that is printing 70 liters a minute with drying units integrated. Datacolor was showing digital imaging technology for review and assessment. Some of the technologies viewed included integration of dyeing and chemistry development, new denim effects and colors, robotic spraying, and laser effects. While at the show, Kerry also looked at weaving, waste reduction, and knitting technologies. A new needle by Groz Beckert was introduced which integrates technologies such as weaving and embroidery.
Through a Cotton Council initiative, Kerry is writing for the Cottons Revolutions blog about factors that will affect the supply chain. She is currently exploring RFID and is open for other topics and participation.
Dave Gardner of SPESA announced the Dec. 8th conference in Greensboro which will cover topics such as spreading, cutting, sewing, work measurement, and material handling. There is a new sector, SPESA IT, or innovation through technology. It is designed to present information in a forum which will be held the first quarter of 2012. SPESA Expo is partnering with Messe Frankfurt for a new show, Texprocess Americas, which will be in Atlanta in April 2012. It will combine Techtextil and American textile machinery, as well as SPESA member companies.
Mark Tocci of Special Operations Apps showed technology developed to provide camouflage images for apparel to blend in with the environment. The military uses 8-16 colors for camo. His company is working on using the technology with smart devices, including I Phone 4S and above that have forward and backward cameras, using photographic images and algorithms to create custom camo. Special Ops Apps is adding a system to tonal match to the nearest Pantone colors. This technology is being repurposed for outdoor sports and fashion applications.
Phil Bushman of Edgnet, a data technology company, is creating a database of product information. They begin with building software, and streamline the information from suppliers to the selling point. Edgnet helps companies understand how to position gift cards online. Eighty percent of shoppers use their phones to shop while in a store. About 17% of users purchase clothes online, and usually search on pictures rather than text. Some shoppers are brand-specific and others price-specific, and about 63% search online before making a purchase. His company is working with manufacturers to define product attributes.
Chuck Nesbit thanked Mike Fralix and the [TC]² team for their accomplishments. Members should get their people to come to [TC]² and be stimulated.
Mike added that wherever he goes, people always ask “what’s new at [TC]²?”
Member Profile - Cotton Incorporated
By Karen Davis, [TC]²
Cotton Incorporated was established in 1970 as a national marketing and research effort to help combat erosion in cotton’s consumer market share due to the advancement of synthetic fibers in the marketplace. At that time, cotton products were reduced to three main categories: denim, t-shirts, and towels. Today, cotton enjoys an approximate 61% market share, and can be found in most product categories for apparel and home textiles.
In 2000, Cotton Incorporated moved into its 125,000 square foot state-of-the-art research and development center and world headquarters in Cary, North Carolina. This technologically advanced complex has set the standard for all facilities of its type in the textile industry.
Cotton Incorporated is funded by cotton growers in the United States through per-bale assessments on producers and importers levied by the Cotton Board, which reports to the United States Department of Agriculture. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, the Cotton Board is the oversight and administrative arm of the Cotton Research & Promotion Program, representing U.S. Upland cotton. The company supports approximately 400 research initiatives across the Cotton Belt through partnerships with the USDA, NCC, and other organizations.
Some of the company’s promotional activities for U.S. producers and importers of cotton include a website, www.thefabricofourlives.com, containing consumer information on such topics as home decorating tips, fabric care, fashion shopping trends, and how to use color in your wardrobe. A fashion fabric glossary defines terminology that is used to describe fabric or style characteristics.
By increasing production yields and reducing costs, improving fiber quality, creating new textile products, and implementing a highly successful marketing strategy, Cotton Incorporated ensures that upland cotton will remain at the forefront with consumers, and that it will continue to be a dominant fiber in the world.
Important Dates
December
8 |
Advancements in Manufacturing Technology - Presented by SPESA – Sheraton Greensboro Hotel Four Seasons. For more information, go to www.spesa.org. |
21-Jan 2 |
[TC]² Office closed for Holidays and Staff Vacation |
January
9-10 |
How to Build a Tech Pack, Seminar at [TC]². For details or to register, see our course catalog. |
24-26 |
Colombiatex, Plaza Mayor, Medellin. For information, go to http://colombiatex.inexmoda.org.co. |
February
6-10 |
Intro to Apparel Manufacturing, Seminar at [TC]². For details or to register, see our course catalog. |
13-15 |
Pattern Development, Seminar at [TC]². For details or to register, see our course catalog. |
For detailed information about industry events, visit www.techexchange.com
A Look Ahead in the Newsletter
Colombiatex 2012
View previous editions of this newsletter
[TC]²
5651 Dillard Drive
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www.tc2.com
Phone: 919-380-2156
Fax: 919-380-2181
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