Design and Product Development

Exploring Effectiveness of Programs and Tools for 3D Printing Wearable Product

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Abstract

Due to the rapid adoption of digital fabrication technologies, such as 3D printing, the textile and apparel industry is recognizing the unique advantage of efficiently prototyping complex objects for various customized products. Today, 3D apparel design pioneers who have been trained in traditional practice lack the knowledge in 3D CAD and are often collaborating with 3D CAD experts in 3D printing product development. More importantly, the most popular 3D CAD programs are designed for engineers and thus lack intuitive features suitable for traditional apparel designers and products. This design case study investigates the effectiveness of popular 3D CAD program (Rhino) and tools (3D mouse) for the traditional apparel designer in wearable product prototyping. Findings suggest that 3D CAD program like Rhino challenges the way an apparel designer interprets CAD tools in creating various complex forms and reconsider orders of operation in product development.

How to Cite:

Sun, L. & Parsons, J. L., (2016) “Exploring Effectiveness of Programs and Tools for 3D Printing Wearable Product”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 73(1).