Modularity in apparel production : an industry-integrated investigation : Master of Design exegesis, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Date
2019
DOI
Open Access Location
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Publisher
Massey University
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Abstract
The central focus of this project, as outlined in
the industry brief, is to develop the workflow and
manufacturing capabilities of the apparel company
Kapinua, through expansion of the brand’s
3D-integrated, customer driven, e-commerce
platform. Based in Levin, New Zealand, Kapinua is
a vertically-integrated manufacturing and retailing
company. Specialising in made-to-order (MTO) digitally
printed garments, Kapinua have developed an online
platform that allows its users to select and customise
garments from their web browser. With the support
of New Zealand government organisation Callaghan
Innovation, Kapinua wishes to expand, develop and
refine this digital asset. Through iterative design practice,
analysis of Kapinua’s systems and processes, reflective
documentation, and literary research, this work looks
to explore possible applications of customisation and
modularity in the production of apparel. Informed by
client needs, the primary project outcomes are relevant
sizing charts informed by parametric research; grading
rule tables; modular pattern templates; a library of
products prepared for Kapinua’s 3D-integrated, online
platform; and a structured filing system to organise
and access digital assets. Further objectives include
improved efficiency through workflow streamlining
and early iterations of resources designed to assist with
future product development within the company. More
broadly, this research poses the question: How can digital
technologies help create economically-viable, structurally
customisable patterns - and how can this increase
customer satisfaction, garment fit, and improve the way
we engage with clothing?
Description
Keywords
Fashion design, Data processing, Clothing and dress, Computer-aided design, Dressmaking, Pattern design, Three-dimensional imaging, Kapinua (Firm)