Innovative 3D virtualization and 3D printing accelerate the development process
The far-reaching possibilities of 3D virtualization are already being used for most product categories to speed up and simplify the creative development processes within the Group. 3D technology is used for tasks ranging from the virtualization of the designers’ preliminary creative ideas to the presentation of the final collection. For example, color and fabric variations as well as trimmings can be displayed virtually as a basis for internal discussion. First prototypes and certain trimmings are made available here using 3D printing. The Group also uses virtual prototypes, digitally produced fabrics and modeled trimmings for the final presentation of the collections. This close cooperation between the development teams makes it possible to develop products not only more quickly but also less expensively and more sustainably due to the reduced need for physical samples.
Looking forward, the broad range of possibilities afforded by virtualization will be used beyond the creative design phase in the sale of the products to business partners and end consumer. For instance, when collections are presented at the global showrooms, 3D virtualization will make it possible to display virtual samples in addition to physical ones to demonstrate color and fabric variations, optimizing the use of resources.
Ongoing technological enhancements a significant competitive advantage
Throughout all stages, seamless collaboration between all those involved, including external suppliers and technology partners, is essential to ensure high product quality and maximize the efficiency of the research and development process. In order to keep abreast of the latest technological advances, HUGO BOSS regularly visits textile machinery fairs and tests the equipment at its development center in Metzingen. For example, a modern cutting machine is in operation at the Metzingen Technical Center. By optically scanning the material properties, it is able to process the markers even of striped and checked fabrics precisely, quickly and completely automatically. As the material is cut on a firm felt base with this technique and no vacuum film is required to fix the fabric, savings can be achieved on materials such as paper and synthetic. At the same time, the markers are placed digitally on the fabric, resulting in greater precision and therefore reduced waste. HUGO BOSS is currently working with its suppliers on an innovative fabric printing process. Known as “re-engineered printing”, this process arranges decorative patterns or other motifs on the fabric during printing in such a way that the cutting patterns can be optimized during processing and placed on the material in such a way as to reduce waste.