DOST-PTRI: Developing a Cloud-based Digital Apparel Prototyping

Getting the correct measurement is one of the most prevalent problems that online shoppers face these days. Over 40% of online clothing returns are due to sizes. Don't be concerned anymore because, the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) of the Department of Science and Technology is working on a cloud-based digital garment prototyping platform that will assist Filipino textile technologists, designers, manufacturers, and customers.

“In line with the shift to the virtual space as the new platform as the work-from-home arrangement becomes the new normal, the DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) will develop a cloud-based digital apparel prototyping platform,” said DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña

According to him, the digital garment prototyping platform would localize computer-aided engineering (CAE) software, which will feature digital pattern creation and 3D visualization.

“The platform will be equipped with a digital database of traditional Filipino wear, fabrics, along with the prototype Filipino sizing system developed through the earlier project that established the DOST-PTRI Textile Product Development Center,” de la Peña said.

“The development of the online platform for textile technologists, designers, manufacturers and customers is expected to bring a positively disruptive shift to local product development.” The project of developing a cloud-based digital apparel prototyping software officially started on August 1, 2021, and is expected to be completed by January 31, 2024.

"This project aims to aid the local designers, manufacturers, and students in developing apparel prototypes using new technologies. For example, a customer from Davao wants to ask a famous designer in Manila to create her wedding dress. Using this online platform, the designer would be able to design the wedding gown and try this on an avatar that features the (body measurements) of the customer," In an interview with the Philippine News Agency, PTRI Director Celia Elumba stated.

How precise is it?

The designer could use the simulation program to see which portions of the gown needed to be modified. Elumba guaranteed that the measurements used to create the avatars would be accurate. "very accurate" because these will be based on the 3D body-scanned data.

"Based on a style, the visual garment is digitally-sewn and fitted on the avatar. 'Hot spots' will be shown to indicate 'stress' or 'tension points'. This is where the adjustments need to be made -- to make it looser if needed," she said.

This project has been funded PHP14,308,847 by the PTRI, an associated agency of the Department of Science and Technology. According to Elumba, digitizing fabric and designs requires two pieces of equipment. She also said that the project's schedule is rather protracted due to the digitization and beta testing of the program. Mapua University will be involved in the software development process.

"What's good about this software is that it would have a digital database of flat patterns such as Filipino wear, contemporary wear, local weave fabrics— the 3D visualization software will help them develop design samples or apparel prototypes. All they need is internet access" Elumba stated. The program will be available online and accessible by the target users, notwithstanding travel restrictions and another coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) measures.

Source: Philippine News Agency

Maina Zaina, Writer and a Virtual Assistant at AVCreativity Studio. She enjoys media entertainment and is an avid fan of "K-Wave". She loves her job because she is exposed to different types of entertainment. She also believes in the saying "If you want to be successful, don't seek success - seek competence, empowerment; do nothing short of the best that you can do" by Jaggi Vasudev