Alleviation: An International Journal of Nutrition, Gender & Social Development, ISSN 2348-9340, Volume 10, Number 10 (2023): 1-7 © Arya PG College (College with Potential for Excellence Status by UGC) & Business Press India Publication, Delhi http://apcjournals.com, www.aryapgcollege.ac.in

Computer Technology in Apparel Industry

Santosh Hooda
Associate Professor, Department of Home Science
BPS IHL, BPSMV, Khanpur Kalan, Sonepat Haryana
Email: santoshhoodaa@gmail.com

Abstract
The apparel industry has seen significant advancements in technology over the years, revolutionizing various aspects of the design, production, and retail processes. Here are some key technologies that have transformed the apparel industry: Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing, 3D Printing, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, Supply Chain Management Systems, Sustainable Technologies, Robotics and Automation etc. However, Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing technology is quite significant among these. Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing technology has been widely used in the apparel industry. Educational institutions are essential in providing students with the abilities and information required to successfully apply this technology in the design and production of clothes. This technology is used in the clothing sector and can be employed by educational institutions. The apparel industry relies heavily on various software applications to streamline and optimize its operations across the entire value chain. These softwares assist in designing, pattern making, production planning, inventory management, retail, and more. Some commonly used softwares in the apparel industry and educational institutions are Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Fashion CAD, Tukatech's TUKAcad etc. Beside this Computer-Aided Manufacturing has made it easier for sewing and assembly procedures to be automated. It is possible to programme sewing machines with technology to carry out stitching patterns and activities. This technology enhances stitch quality and consistency while lowering the possibility of human error and accelerating production. Overall, by automating the operations of cutting, stitching, and assembly, CAD/CAM has changed the way that clothing is produced in the apparel sector. In addition to lowering labour costs and lead times, it has increased consistency, productivity, variety in designs and accuracy. Keywords: Computer, Design, Manufacturing, Automation, Apparel, Industry.

Introduction
Computer technology has greatly impacted the apparel industry, transforming various aspects of design, production, supply chain management, and retail. CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology has been widely used in various industries, including the apparel industry. Educational institutions play a crucial role in equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilize CAD/CAM technology in apparel design and manufacturing processes. Here are some points which shows that how CAD/CAM technology is used in the garment industry and how educational institutions can use it. In the field of design and pattern making, CAD software enables apparel designers to create digital designs and patterns, replacing traditional manual methods. Students in educational institutions learn how to use CAD tools to create accurate and detailed garment designs, allowing for easy modification and experimentation with various design elements.
Virtual prototyping is also very important aspect of designing, CAD software facilitates virtual prototyping, where 3D models of garments are created and visualized on a computer screen. Students can learn how to create virtual prototypes, explore different color combinations, fabrics, and design variations without physically producing multiple samples, thus reducing time and cost (Volino et. al. 2005).
CAD/CAM technology facilitate the pattern grading and marking, which involves creating different sizes of a garment pattern. It also helps in creating markers, which optimize the layout of pattern pieces on fabric to minimize waste. Educational institutions can teach students how to use CAD tools to efficiently grade patterns and create markers for efficient production. CAD/CAM systems also offer functionalities for production planning, including material requirements planning, production scheduling, and inventory management. Students can learn how to use these features to optimize production processes and ensure efficient workflow in the apparel industry. Computer technology can integrate with other software and hardware systems, such as cutting machines and sewing automation equipment. Educational institutions can provide hands-on training to students and researchers on these integrated systems, preparing them for the use of advanced automated technologies in apparel manufacturing (Riaz et. al. 2009).
The design, development, and production processes in the garment sector have all undergone radical change as a result of CAD/CAM technology. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technologies work hand in hand to optimize efficiency, accuracy, and productivity throughout the apparel production cycle.

Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Computer-Aided Design (CAD) has revolutionized various industries, including the apparel industry. CAD refers to the use of computer software and technology to create, modify, and optimize designs. In the context of the apparel industry, CAD has transformed the way garments are designed, developed, and manufactured. The introduction of CAD in the apparel industry has brought numerous benefits and advancements. Traditionally, fashion designers would sketch their ideas on paper, which would then be transformed into patterns manually. This process was time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to errors. CAD has streamlined this process by enabling designers to create digital sketches and patterns directly on the computer. One of the significant advantages of CAD is its ability to create precise and accurate designs. Designers can use CAD software to create 2D and 3D visualizations of their garments, allowing them to visualize the final product before it is even produced (Dwivedi 2011). This helps in making design modifications and improvements early on, reducing the time and cost associated with physical prototyping. CAD software also makes it simple to create patterns and make corrections as many times as necessary. Fittings or virtual prototyping can be used to drape clothing on a model on the screen, and animation makes it easier to see fit and drape of the dress (Ondogan & Erdogan 2006). CAD also facilitates greater collaboration among various stakeholders in the apparel industry. Designers, pattern makers, and manufacturers can easily share digital files, ensuring that everyone is working from the same design specifications. This eliminates the need for manual communication and minimizes errors caused by misinterpretation. It is only logical for the CAD systems to be advantageous in these processes by lowering labour and time since grading different sizes patterns and establishing arrangements prior to the marker making process require more labour and time (Tabraz 2017). Furthermore, CAD allows for efficient material utilization and optimization. By digitally simulating the placement of pattern pieces on the fabric, designers and manufacturers can minimize wastage and maximize material efficiency. This not only reduces costs but also supports sustainable practices by minimizing environmental impact.
CAD has also accelerated the garment production process. Once a design is finalized, the digital files can be directly sent to cutting machines and other automated equipments, enabling faster and more accurate production. This expedites the time-to-market for new collections and allows for more flexibility in responding to changing fashion trends.

Dress Design Software Used in Apparel Industry
There are several dress design software options available for fashion designers and students/scholars to create and develop their designs. Here are some popular dress design software programs:
• Adobe Illustrator: Adobe Illustrator is a versatile vector graphics software widely used in the fashion industry. Designers can create detailed dress sketches, patterns, and technical drawings using its robust tools and features. This software is widely used in educational institutions.
• CorelDRAW: CorelDRAW is another popular vector graphics software used in educational institutions and fashion industry that offers similar functionality to Adobe Illustrator. It allows designers/students to create dress designs, patterns, and illustrations with precision.
• Fashion CAD: Fashion CAD is a specialized software designed specifically for the fashion industry. It provides tools for creating dress patterns, grading, marker making, and visualizing designs in 2D and 3D.
• Digital Fashion Pro: Digital Fashion Pro is a fashion design software that enables designers to create professional dress designs, sketches, and illustrations. It offers pre- drawn templates, pattern tools, and fabric simulation features.
• Optitex: Optitex, mentioned earlier in the context of CAD software for the apparel industry, also offers dress design capabilities. Designers can create dress patterns, make virtual prototypes, and simulate fabric draping using Optitex software.
• Gerber Technology's AccuMark: AccuMark, part of Gerber Technology's suite of software solutions, is widely used for dress design in the fashion industry. It offers pattern making, grading, marker making, and visualization features.
• Tukatech's TUKAcad: TUKAcad by Tukatech is a comprehensive dress design software that allows designers/scholars to create and manipulate dress patterns, visualize designs in 3D, and generate technical specifications.
Pattern Making Software
Pattern making in apparel refers to the process of creating templates or patterns that serve as a blueprint for cutting and constructing garments. It involves translating a designer's vision or a garment's design into a flat, two-dimensional representation that can be used to cut fabric pieces and assemble them into a three-dimensional garment. Manual pattern making is a time-consuming and error-prone procedure that allows for less design. Pattern designing has evolved through time into a skilled technical art that necessitates careful consideration (Anderson 2005). Pattern making software is an essential tool in the apparel industry as it allows designers and pattern makers to create accurate and precise patterns for garments. Commonly used pattern making software programs in the apparel industry are as under:
• Lectra's Modaris: Modaris is a popular pattern making and grading software used in the fashion industry. It enables designers and pattern makers to create and adjust patterns, simulate garment fitting, and generate markers for efficient fabric utilization.
• Style CAD: Style CAD is a versatile pattern making software used in the apparel industry. It offers tools for creating, editing, and grading patterns, as well as generating markers and technical specifications. The human body's 3D model is captured using software that is a component of 3D scanning systems, and it may be integrated with a system for pattern alternation because to its crucial measurement of the digital image. Other Software:
• CLO: CLO is a popular 3D garment visualization software used in the apparel industry. It offers realistic 3D modeling and simulation capabilities, allowing designers to create virtual garments, drape fabrics, and visualize how they will look on virtual models. It is now possible to construct real-life avatars quickly and accurately through 3D body scanning technology (Beshah et al. 2013).
• Marvelous Designer: Marvelous Designer is a CAD software widely used for creating 3D virtual garments. It provides tools for pattern making, simulation of fabric behavior, and creating realistic clothing designs.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) has significantly impacted the apparel industry by transforming the production process. CAM refers to the use of computer software and technology to control and automate manufacturing operations, including cutting, sewing, and assembling garments. It complements Computer- Aided Design (CAD) and plays a vital role in transforming digital designs into physical products. The introduction of CAM in the apparel industry has brought about numerous advancements and benefits. Traditionally, garment production involved manual labor and a high degree of skill, which was time-consuming and prone to errors. CAM has automated many of these processes, resulting in increased efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.
One of the primary advantages of CAM in the apparel industry is the automation of cutting processes. With the help of CAM software and cutting machines, patterns can be precisely and automatically cut from fabrics. This eliminates the need for manual cutting, which is labor- intensive and often leads to inconsistencies. CAM-driven cutting machines can cut multiple
layers of fabric simultaneously, ensuring accurate and uniform cuts, and significantly reducing production time. Additionally, CAM has facilitated the automation of sewing and assembly processes. Sewing machines equipped with CAM technology can be programmed to perform specific stitching patterns and tasks. This automation improves the consistency and quality of stitches, reduces the risk of human error, and speeds up the production process. CAM- controlled sewing machines also enable the creation of complex and intricate designs that would be challenging to achieve manually.
Another advantage of CAM in the apparel industry is its ability to integrate with other manufacturing systems. CAM integrate with CAD system. The development of an innovative path to low-cost modernization and automation of production implementing the greatest quality of internal resources, known as lean production, supports the idea of automation and integration at any cost (Gers˘ak 1993). CAM software can communicate with other systems, such as inventory management and production planning software, creating a seamless flow of information throughout the manufacturing process. This integration improves coordination, reduces lead times, and allows for better resource allocation. Furthermore, CAM facilitates better production scalability and flexibility. With CAM technology, manufacturers can easily adjust production volumes and quickly respond to changing market demands. The ability to reprogram CAM-driven machines enables efficient batch production and supports just-in-time manufacturing strategies. There are specific applications of CAM in the apparel sector. These are as under:
• Automated Cutting Systems: CAM software can be utilized to control computer- controlled cutting machines used in apparel manufacturing. These machines can automatically cut fabric layers according to predefined patterns, reducing manual labor and improving accuracy and efficiency in the cutting process.
• Sewing Automation: CAM can be applied to automate certain sewing processes in apparel manufacturing. Computer-controlled sewing machines can be programmed to perform specific stitching patterns and operations, reducing human intervention, and increasing production speed and consistency.
• Embroidery and Appliqué Machines: CAM software is often used in conjunction with embroidery and appliqué machines in the apparel industry. Design files can be loaded into the software, which then guides the machine to automatically stitch intricate designs, logos, or patterns onto garments.
• Fabric Printing: CAM technology can be employed in textile printing processes. Digital textile printers equipped with CAM software can accurately print complex patterns, colors, and designs onto fabric, providing high-quality and customizable printing solutions for apparel production.
• Workflow Optimization: CAM software can optimize the overall production workflow in the apparel industry. It can assist in production planning, material utilization, inventory management, and machine scheduling, ensuring efficient and synchronized operations across different stages of the manufacturing process.
In conclusion, the development of computer technology has revolutionized the design and manufacturing processes in the garment sector. It has enhanced design precision, facilitated collaboration, optimized material utilization, and accelerated production timelines. CAD is anticipated to play an ever-more-important role in the apparel industry as technology develops, spurring creativity and effectiveness in garment design and production. Overall, the introduction of CAD/CAM in the apparel industry also has transformed garment production by automating cutting, sewing, and assembly processes. It has improved accuracy, productivity, and consistency while reducing labor costs and lead times.
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