Texprocess to display innovative sportswear technologies

The digital sample of the garment can then be seen draped on a 3D virtual fit model. Where a sports animation capability is included, the virtual garment can be analyzed on the virtual model whilst it is undertaking sports such as soccer, jogging, cycling, ice skating, etc. The software can actually show a sample-in-motion that allows for a virtual review of the design, fit, athletic movement and artwork placement in advance of the actual garment being cut and sewn, whilst images and videos can be shared with customers and clients before any physical sample is made.

Companies producing key individual and team athletes’ leotards and other close fitting gymnastic clothing rely on unique patterns and styling. However, increasing the complexity of these products cause development and production challenges for the company. Converting an increasing number of imaginative sketches for short run, multi-size orders, into usable, practical patterns in a wide range of sizes requires not only a talented patternmaker, but also a powerful technology solution.

The growing number of smaller, decorative pieces needs optimized marker-making as materials will include highest quality elastanes and multi-stretch fabrics, often pre-printed with holograms and glitter. Cutting is further complicated by the need for highly intricate markers. This calls for a powerful CAD package for design, grading, marker making, cut order planning and computerised cutting, as well as an effective PLM and ERP system to ensure the multiplicity of small or individual orders are produced on time.

Apart from redesigning materials, patterns and surface architectures for the Nike Pro TurboSpeed uniforms on key areas of the athlete's form to assist aerodynamic drag reduction, the interior surface is as smooth, even and uninterrupted as possible.  By placing elastics and edge finishes on the outside of the garment and incorporating an innovative flat, smooth waistband, bulkiness and abrasions are virtually eliminated.

Thus it is not only the design, fit, choice and use of materials which is important in performance sportswear. The entire method of construction can have a significant effect on the effectiveness of the product. This leads to consideration of all the different technologies which can be used throughout the process. This includes tension free fabric spreading, multi-ply verses single ply cutting, colour matching, needle and thread choices, stitch types, feed types, ultrasonic and high frequency welding, bonding, heat sealing, fusing and much else.

Much sportswear is highly branded, maybe incorporating transfer printing, digital printing, screen printing, embroidery, laser cutting or engraving, embossing, embroidery, appliqué. The brand needs to be protected from counterfeit and there are now technologies which can be incorporated into garments enabling immediate confirmation that a product is genuine or an imitation.

Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH