A color code indicates the specific location of the best isolation clothing for the human body. Empa photo

Whether exercising, at work or in the living room - depending on the type of activity and the environment, our clothes must meet different needs. Empa scientists have developed a simulation to predict how an outfit will keep our body warm. The important factor is the air layer between our bodies and the outer layer of clothing.

In the winter, it can be sunny and warm. But as soon as we come into contact with the environment, we can be frozen. If our clothes are not suitable according to the conditions, we feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, garment manufacturers want to change their products according to customers' needs. To see if the T-shirt, jacket, or shoes deliver as they promised, the prototype tests have been done for the longest time.

Empa scientists have now developed a computer program that simulates the warmth of the wearer. The heat supply of a jacket is not determined solely by its material. "Much more important is the air layers between the body and the fabric," Empa researcher Agnes Psikuta explained. "The air cushion has the ability to retain 70% of the heat retention of clothes." Because air is a great insulator. Therefore, clothes are best insulated when there is plenty of air between the body and the outer layer of clothes. If air is released, the insulation is affected and we will begin to freeze.

Copy from fashion industry

So far, most of the research samples have predicted heat loss based on the fabrics used to produce a garment. However, when moving the contact of different fabrics, this also changes the insulation air layer; But only one layer can permanently insulate well. Therefore, the researchers sought solutions to calculate the change in thickness of the air layer during migration. “We have used computer programs developed for the fashion industry as a basis. These programs simulate situations on the catwalk. Designers create a virtual model and see what their newly designed clothes look like on a moving person. ” These computer programs can accurately predict how clothes work on our bodies.

The software was developed by Psicuta and her team that combine different computational models together. In addition to air classes, the program also predicts comfort as well as the effects of sweat or certain movements on clothing. Eventually the cut sample was transformed into clothes worn by a virtual model.

But the program can also help create optimal dresses worn in the fall. "Even before the type or design has been determined, our software will calculate how to cut the clothes," Ms. Psikuta explained. This is not just for standard sizes. “Our program can shape patterns according to different body types and sizes. For example, if a product is designed for someone who is particularly muscular, curved, or slim, we can adjust the program accordingly and observe what it will look like. ”

Reduce development time by 90%

Finally, this software helps replace prototypes to develop new clothes and functional devices. This also helps reduce 90% of the test time devoted to developing new clothing models. Ms. Psikuta said how much we can really save time depends greatly on its complexity. For example, protective clothing for firefighters - a life-saving device - has a very complex structure, while a structured sports T-shirt is simpler. However, operating a program on a computer is not of utmost importance. To test the research results in practice, Empa cooperates with industry partners, for example producing functional equipment for winter sports. "They come up with new ideas, and we support them with our technology, helping them develop clothes in the shortest possible time,"

Source: vinatex.com.vn