3D digital technology in upcycling apparel design: the creation of a modular redesign system and designer perspectives

Despite advancements in sustainable apparel design, upcycling practices still face challenges limiting creativity and efficiency. This study develops a Modular Redesign System (MRS) using 3D digital technology to improve the upcycling process. The MRS was created with CLO3D and Aftereffects, producing ten redesign samples and demonstration videos. In-depth interviews with South Korean upcycling apparel designers were conducted to assess the system’s perceived effectiveness and explore key issues in upcycling design. The MRS involves four stages: Selection, Virtualisation, Virtual Ideation, and Construction and Fitting. Findings highlight the MRS’s ability to enhance ideation, reduce material waste, and save time and costs, offering practical solutions to current challenges in apparel redesign. The MRS also shows potential for mass customisation, serving as an effective communication tool for personalised upcycling services. This study bridges a gap in the literature by integrating 3D virtual simulation with modular design to advance sustainable and efficient upcycling practices.

尽管可持续服装设计领域已取得诸多进展，但服装升级再造（upcycling）实践仍面临诸多制约创意与效率提升的挑战。本研究依托3D数字技术开发了模块化再设计系统（Modular Redesign System，MRS），以优化升级再造流程。该系统依托CLO3D与Aftereffects开发，共生成10套再设计样衣与演示视频。本研究对韩国服装升级再造设计师开展深度访谈，以评估该系统的感知有效性，并探究升级再造设计中的核心痛点。该系统包含甄选、虚拟化处理、虚拟创意生成以及实体制作与试穿四个阶段。研究结果表明，该系统可有效提升创意构思效率、减少物料浪费并节约时间与成本，为当前服装再设计领域的现存难题提供了切实可行的解决方案。此外，该系统在大规模定制领域亦具备应用潜力，可作为个性化升级再造服务的高效沟通工具。本研究将3D虚拟仿真技术与模块化设计相结合，填补了相关学术研究的空白，助力可持续且高效的服装升级再造实践发展。