CAD is the abbreviation for Computer-aided design, which basically means designing a visual shape or object using a computer versus doing it by hand. These designs could be flat 2D shapes or sketches or come in the form of 3D models.
CAD in the fashion industry
In the fashion industry, CAD software tools are used for:
· Pattern / Block Development – drafting the initial pattern shape based on pattern / fit principles
· Grading – incrementally decreasing or increasing the initial pattern dimensions to create the other sizes required. Example, sample pattern = Size 10 – grade other sizes for 8, 12, 14 + 16.
· Markers – creating the pattern layout for cutting the fabric, based on the usable fabric width for a sample size or all sizes for production
· 3D Modelling – using a human avatar to test a garment design in a 3D format. This takes into consideration the flat pattern as a sewn product and the desired fabric.
· Fashion drawings – used to express an initial concept of a garment, usually for the pattern technician.
· Technical sketches – a flat drawing of the garment showing stitch and finish details, used for production purposes.
· Textile design – creating fabric prints (repeats) or knits to use within the garment design.
The advantages of using CAD
As CAD technology becomes more versatile and accessible, it allows for:
· Accuracy
· In some cases, it is intuitive
· Quicker results (having an experienced operator)
· Easy storage (computer)
· Can easily compare shapes against one another
· Allows you to use shapes / dimensions on another style easily
· Easy to send to someone (an email attachment)
· The shape can possibly be used in other CAD programs
· In most cases, the out-put can be saved in different formats
Don’t forget about CAM!
You will usually see CAD/CAM written together. CAM stands for Computer-aided manufacturing, which is any computer software or machinery process that assists in producing a final product.
In the fashion industry, these tools come in the form of:
· plotters
· computerised cutting machines
· digitisers
· scanners
· tablets
· Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software
CAD in The Textile & Fashion Hub
When The Textile & Fashion Hub opens it’s doors it will be fully-equipped with:
· Grafis – for the pattern development, grading and marker capabilities
· Adobe Creative Suite – to be used for the fashion drawings, technical sketches and textile designing.
· TC2 Body Scanner – to collect body measurement data to give a better understanding of the body, so as to create a superior fitting garment.
The CAD Cluster
The CAD cluster is one of the clusters that supports The Fashion & Textile Hub. The role of the cluster is to represent a point of contact for The T&F Hub and it’s users in relation to CAD/CAM solutions. It is also required to investigate future advances in the technology to determine if The T&F Hub would benefit from these tools.
Please come and check out The Textile & Fashion Hub CAD facilities when your fashion empire is looking to collaborate and innovate with the latest technology.
