Smart robotic mannequin enables mass customisation for the garment industry
Expert Views On Cool IoT Use Cases
MARKET OVERVIEW
Customisation is a key component of the outcome economy and the fashion-conscious garment industry is no exception. Realising that objective for diverse markets comprising a wide range of body sizes and shapes represents a significant challenge.
THE PROBLEM
Mass customisation cannot be realised unless the designer can control each step of the prototype process and reliably personalise the mannequin. That is not possible using the fixed-format wooden dummies normally employed in today’s workshops.
THE PLAYERS
The key player is Audrey-Laure Bergenthal, Euveka’s CEO. Euveka is a leader in the mass customisation process for the garment industry and the company has started marketing its first version of a smart, scalable, connected robotic mannequin. The requisite mechatronics technology and knowhow came from Euveka employee.
THE SOLUTION
Mechatronics technology, which includes mechanical engineering, electronics, computing, telecommunications and control engineering, is used to replicate a portfolio of sizes and shapes. This enables designers to control each step of the prototype process and reliably personalise unique models at the exact size they need.
Personalising the mannequin is realised by design software that runs on a PC / Mac and a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communications link. Changes in height and or width take less than 30 seconds. The precise time varies in line with the size of the body and the individual garment. In addition, the process of creating and validating the model is facilitated by a library of datasheets that can be edited before transmitting the data.
Future development includes adding robotized body parts such as legs, arms and feet, and adaption of common challenges such as pregnancy and weight gain.
THE BUSINESS BENEFITS
- Simple and intuitive control from a tablet or MAC/PC
- Growth in height and width on key axes
- Rapid adjustments in less than a minute
- Precise customisation, thereby delivering optimal quality
- Entering measurements from an Excel import file
- A tangible ROI based on saving time, space and raw materials
The author of this blog is Bob Emmerson, freelance IoT writer and commentator
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