An Exploratory Study of Virtual Fit Testing using 3D Virtual Fit Models and Garment Simulation Technology in Technical Design

http://dx.doi.org/10.15221/13.067 Abstract The use of Three-Dimensional (3D) body scanning technology in the area of technical apparel design has begun to receive more attention and be implemented in the industry over the recent decade. The purpose of this study was to observe the effectiveness of 3D virtual fit testing processes using body scans and garment simulation technology and to identify the areas of challenge in the process of 3D virtual fit and pattern manipulation. In this study, two fit models were recruited based on ASTM measurements for Misses and Women’s plus size. One Misses size 8 model represented the standard size as a control, and the other model was Women’s plus-sized 16. Fit models were scanned and created into 3D virtual models (VM) using a [TC] body scanner. Two types of garments were selected as test garments: a basic unlined bodice and pants. Both garments were made from a medium-weight cotton woven fabric. These garments were selected for their representations of basic garment style, and there are definite expectations regarding the fit. Three advanced undergraduate apparel design students were selected and trained. Each participant manipulated the patterns to fit each virtual model (VM). The virtual fit testing and fit correction were recorded using Camtasia screen recording software. Then, the actual garments were made and tested on live models. Live fit models evaluated the comfort and fit of the garments. The results indicated that participants spent more time on size 16 than size 8, and the bodice took twice as much time as the pants. Based on the size 8 fit model evaluation, the least satisfying fit was found in the neckline, crotch, and pant hem. This may be due to the difficulty in determining fitting ease using 3D simulation. The results of the size 16 live fit test showed that poor fit was found in the underarm, neckline, abdomen, buttocks, hip girth, and thigh. More fit problems on the pants were found in size 16. This may be due to lack of knowledge among participants concerning plus-size pants fit and pattern shape. This study revealed that fit ease and certain areas of greater body curve should be further tested on the live fit model for accuracy.