OptiTex Aligns With Zweave

New York–based companies OptiTex USA Inc. and Zweave Inc. have formed a partnership. The companies will pool each other’s technologies to help apparel designers collaborate on fit and design using 3-D technology and data management tools.

OptiTex’s Runway 3D and Pattern Design System applications will be used with Zweave’s Collaborative Product Lifecycle Management (CPLM) system, which allows designers to collaborate with suppliers and others on garment production during the product development process.

Using both companies’ tools, designers will be able to create 3-D virtual models, patterns and fit workspaces through anthropometry, the science of human shape and form.

The combined resources will also help apparel companies reduce the cost of ownership for 3-D design and PLM software, said OptiTex President Yoram Burg. Designers and manufacturers can deploy 3-D and PLM solutions in stages, depending on their specific needs and organizational capabilities.

“The product development organizations who will thrive are those who choose to leverage 3-D technologies in their current business processes to accelerate time-to-market, increase operational efficiencies and address the issue of consumer fit,” Burg said.

“Product development organizations are beginning to integrate 3-D anthropometric data from sizing surveys into their product requirements,” added Zweave Chief Executive Officer David Buck. “However, to date, the apparel industry has struggled to manage 2-D data. What the industry needs is apparel-specific 3-D CAD and PLM solutions and best practices.”

The two companies, currently collaborating on a project for the U.S. Navy, decided to extend their combined resources to the apparel industry. They also plan to share anthropometric, 3-D CAD and PLM consulting services. —Robert McAllister