Abstract
This interdisciplinary study combines expertise in apparel and in three dimensional (3D) digital design to discover the best method of creating 3D avatars for use in apparel simulation for persons with disabilities. 3D apparel simulation enables a product developer to virtually sew, view, and fit garments in a 3D digital environment. This capability is becoming industry practice for prototyping, marketing, and merchandising of products. Little is known of the potential benefit for persons with disabilities. This study defines best practices for the creation of custom avatars from body scans of people with disabilities for use in apparel simulation. Five subjects with acute body asymmetry and amputation were recruited from the local population. The research team employs avatar development methods using body scanning technologies and digital software packages to determine the best process for creating a custom avatar. 3D digital apparel software is used to test these avatars in garment simulation. Results are validated through fitting of actual garments on selected research subjects to determine accuracy of the software. With the right avatars, apparel pattern-making software can be used for specific bodies rather than relying on traditional methods, as well as for visualization and marketing. There are few opportunities to show clothing on people with disabilities in the marketplace and/or in a teaching environment. This research forms the basis for these and other important tools, such as developing design sketch templates for students to use in the development of garments for people with disabilities.
Presenters
Kate Annett-HitchcockAssociate Professor, TATM, North Carolina State University, United States Anne Porterfield
Assistant Professor, TATM, North Carolina State University, United States Timothy Buie
Associate Professor, North Carolina State University Katherine Absher
Graduate Research Assistant, North Carolina State University Sarah Schaedler
Undergraduate Research Assistant, North Carolina State University
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Apparel Disability 3D digital design
