10 - The effective communication system using 3D scanning for mass customized design

Abstract

Effective communication is a critical part for the successful implementation of apparel mass customization (MC). This chapter discusses the current communication methods adopted by the industry (especially by start-up companies) to collect and deliver information, and how body scanning plays its role in this process. Three common ways to take body scans from consumers in today’s settings have been summarized, with a more detailed review on smartphone or tablet-based scanning. Online product configurators are important enabling tools for e-commerce communication and for facilitating codesign experiences for consumers. Therefore, multiple real-life product configurator examples have been reviewed and evaluated. Moreover, the current size recommendation technologies, including online fit quizzes, and body-scan based matching algorithms (some are also based on machine learning or other AI, i.e., Artificial Intelligence, techniques), have been reviewed, with both the underlying issues and the promising aspects of these technologies discussed in this chapter. Lastly, consumer-facing virtual try-ons or virtual fitting rooms, especially those achieved by Augmented Reality, are discussed to end this chapter.