Innovative technologies in digital fashion and textiles design

Digital technologies are transforming fashion, apparel, and footwear design and production. This module introduces students to innovations like 3D scanning, 3D CAD modelling, virtual simulation, and 3D printing, enabling more accurate design, faster development, and sustainable production practices.

• In apparel, advanced CAD systems streamline pattern creation, grading, marker making, and 3D garment visualization, reducing material waste and improving collaboration from concept to production.
• In footwear, digital workflows support precise creation of lasts, soles, uppers, and prototypes, including personalized and orthopedic products through additive manufacturing.

By combining digital and traditional methods, the module shows how modern fashion and textile industries enhance fit, comfort, innovation, and sustainability across the design-to-production pipeline.

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By the end of this module, students will be able to:

• Analyse how digital technologies (3D scanning, CAD, 3D printing) transform footwear and apparel design, production, and sustainability.
• Apply CAD tools (e.g., Julivi) to develop, grade, and optimize garment or footwear components, integrating digital workflows with traditional manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate the benefits and limitations of additive manufacturing, particularly for personalized footwear, orthotics, and sustainable prototyping.

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