Evaluation of virtual pressure prediction in commercial 3D CAD software for compression calf sleeves

Abstract

Previous studies have highlighted inadequacies when using CAD programs for fit and pressure simulation of compression garments. The aim of this study is to explore the use of the newest 3D visualisation software for simulating compression fabrics and examine the accuracy of virtual pressure measurements by comparing it to the pressure exerted by physical compression garments. Digital technology is increasingly being used in clothing product development, and fit assessment is shifting into the virtual realm as the use of CAD programs increase efficiency in the development of patterns and samples. Requiring fewer samples before arriving at the final pattern allows for a more sustainable manufacturing process. However, it is important to investigate the precision of simulation tools for clothing with negative ease, including the induced contact pressure. In this study Style3D, CLO3D and VStitcher are used for 3D simulation, examining the pressure exerted by the compression textiles. To ensure the comparability of the results, the 3D simulations were carried out on rigid Alvanon dress forms that had previously been scanned with a Size Stream SS20 scanner. Using the measurement data from the scanned dress forms, bespoke 2D compression calf sleeve patterns were created in the parametric construction program Grafis for digital simulation and for physical manufacturing. The fit was assessed by determining pressure delivery, using a Picopress pressure measuring device. A comparison of the pressure measurement results between the values determined in real life and those determined by simulation for the custom-made calf compression sleeves showed considerable deviations. This study shows that in comparison due to the huge inaccuracies in the virtual pressure measurement in simulations, the values were up to 16 times higher than in the real measurement.