[pageLogInLogOut]

#Research & Development

Digital material parameters for a realistic 3D simulation

Precise digital material parameters are the key to the successful use of 3D technologies in the apparel industry. Hohenstein digitises the properties of textile fabrics for brands, clothing manufacturers and their suppliers. The Hohenstein data is compatible with common software systems and is available in all required file formats. Companies are thus able to carry out realistic 3D simulations and optimise their processes in design, product development and product communication. This saves resources and shortens the time until the collections are launched on the market.

In laboratory procedures specially adapted for 3D simulation, the Hohenstein experts use fabric samples to determine the material's physical characteristics such as weight, thickness, stiffness and stretch. This is followed by testing of the fold volume and shape using a drapemeter. The results are converted into the various file formats of the 3D simulation systems so that the digital material parameters are available in the appropriate file format for each customer. Upon request, Hohenstein also simulates the associated draping images in 3D to visualize the specific draping behavior of the tested material for the customer. That way, digital prototypes can be created that subsequently accelerate the approval processes and require significantly less material when making real prototypes for production.

The digitization of material parameters is also possible for accessories such as (elastic) ribbons, zips or buttons. © Hohenstein
The digitization of material parameters is also possible for accessories such as (elastic) ribbons, zips or buttons. © Hohenstein


Determining the draping behavior using a drapemeter is an important parameter for the realistic 3D simulation of textile fabrics. © Hohenstein
Determining the draping behavior using a drapemeter is an important parameter for the realistic 3D simulation of textile fabrics. © Hohenstein


Optimized digital material parameters enable a realistic 3D simulation of properties such as the texture or opacity of clothing fabrics used. © Hohenstein
Optimized digital material parameters enable a realistic 3D simulation of properties such as the texture or opacity of clothing fabrics used. © Hohenstein

 

As an accredited laboratory for the comprehensive quality testing of textiles, Hohenstein combines many years of expertise in traditional garment fit development with digital technologies. In addition, the Hohenstein Academy offers numerous workshops about pattern development and 3D fitting.

More information:

https://digital-fitting-lab.hohenstein.com 

https://www.hohenstein-academy.com/en/


Contact address for clothing companies:

digitalfittinglab@hohenstein.com.

On request, Hohenstein also creates draping images in 3D in order to clearly visualize the specific draping behavior of the tested material for customers. © Hohenstein
On request, Hohenstein also creates draping images in 3D in order to clearly visualize the specific draping behavior of the tested material for customers. © Hohenstein


More News from Hohenstein Institute

#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

Global size study for brands and retailers to optimize fit and market coverage

Hohenstein Apparel Fit Solutions, a global leader in apparel fit, sizing, and product development, today announces the launch of its Global Size Study, a new initiative designed to equip brands to better understand and serve their target consumers through more accurate, market-relevant sizing.

#Sustainability

A new standard to combat plastic waste in forests

With DIN SPEC 35808 “Tree Shelter for Forestry Applications,” the testing and research service provider Hohenstein, in collaboration with Rottenburg University of Forestry, as well as forestry authorities and industry partners, has established a clear framework for bio-based and fully biodegradable tree shelters. The pre-standard defines requirements and practical testing methods designed to reduce plastic waste in forests and strengthen the long-term protection of soil and the environment.

#Research & Development

Hohenstein publishes 2025 Sustainability Report

The testing and research service provider Hohenstein has published its latest sustainability report, outlining key progress and strategic initiatives. The report focuses on ambitious CO₂ reduction targets, the company’s new mission statement and the systematic expansion of sustainable services for customers worldwide.

#Research & Development

New DIN SPEC assesses environmental impact of textile fragments in soil

Textile products made from synthetic fibres, finished fabrics or dyed materials release fibre fragments into the environment at every stage of their life cycle. With the new DIN SPEC 19296, Hohenstein has developed a standardised testing method to analyse how these fragments behave in soil under natural conditions. Until now, little was known about their environmental behaviour or potential ecological effects once released.

More News on Research & Development

#Research & Development

MELANGE starts with a co-creative design workshop at Aalto University to shape the visual identity of this new project transforming colouration in textiles

Over the next three years, MELANGE will lower the environmental impact of interior textile production by moving colour design to the beginning of the manufacturing process. This Horizon Europe project officially started on 1 August 2026, and will be publicly launched on 27 August 2026.

#Research & Development

Outdoor Industry Association completes Clean Heat CoLab initiative

The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) has completed its multi-year Clean Heat CoLab initiative, bringing together outdoor brands and technology experts to accelerate the adoption of electrified process heating in textile manufacturing. The collaboration focused on reducing emissions from thermal processes such as dyeing, washing and finishing, which remain among the most carbon-intensive stages of textile production.

#Research & Development

Europe is committed to recycling end-of-life wind turbine blades

Starting in 2026, Europe’s wind energy industry has committed itself to ensuring that wind turbine blades do not end up in landfills once they reach the end of their service life. The EU-funded research project REWIND is exploring ways to reuse this composite waste. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) are one of 13 project partners from seven countries.

#Research & Development

ADD-ITC 2026 publishes preliminary conference program

The organizers of the Aachen-Dresden-Denkendorf International Textile Conference (ADD-ITC) 2026 have released the preliminary program for this year's event, which will take place on November 26–27, 2026, at the International Congress Center Dresden. The conference is expected to attract between 500 and 700 participants from industry, research, and academia.

Latest News

#Yarn & Fiber

Expansive innovations converge in Shanghai as Yarn Expo Autumn 2026 opens doors next week

With just days to go, industry enthusiasm is building for the opening of Yarn Expo Autumn, Asia’s premier yarn and fibre trade fair, running from 25 – 27 August at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Across 27,000 sqm in Hall 8.2, buyers will find nearly 600 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions, spread across seven specialised zones that range from cutting-edge man-made and regenerated fibres to time-honoured cashmere and silk. Beyond the extensive sourcing options, a fringe programme of trend showcases, presentations and product launches rounds out the three¬day event with design, innovation and market intelligence.

#Carpets

DOMOTEX Southeast Asia 2026 - Building the Gateway to ASEAN's fast-growing flooring market

From 11–13 November 2026, the inaugural DOMOTEX Southeast Asia will take place at BITEC (Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre) in Bangkok, Thailand. Jointly organized by GLOBUS Events Limited and Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai Ltd., with Worldex G.E.C. Co., Ltd. as the local partner, the exhibition marks the expansion of the internationally recognized DOMOTEX brand into Southeast Asia. As the newest addition to the global DOMOTEX portfolio, the exhibition has been developed specifically to serve the rapidly evolving ASEAN market, creating a dedicated business event for the flooring and interior finishing industry.

#Sustainability

Execs help steer Cascale’s consumer goods agenda in Athens

The 2026 Cascale Annual Meeting, taking place September 15–17 in Athens, Greece, will convene leaders from across the global consumer goods value chain to tackle one of the industry’s defining questions: how to accelerate meaningful, system-wide transformation. Guiding those conversations as this year’s co-chairs are Sean Cady, vice president, global sustainability, responsibility, trade, and government affairs at VF Corporation, and Dr. Delman Lee, vice chair at TAL Apparel Limited.

#Textile processing

YKK launches no. 3 size of QuickFree® click-TRAK® magnetic zipper globally

YKK Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Koichi Matsushima; hereafter, YKK) has begun the global rollout of the No. 3 size of its QuickFree® click-TRAK® Magnetic zipper, expanding availability beyond China for the first time. While maintaining the same functionality and ease of operation, the No. 3 size is approximately 60% the size of the No. 5 size *1. This enables applications in lightweight garments, sportswear, hooded apparel, and other similar uses.

TOP