Traditional textile materials have some inherent but unfavourable properties which cannot be easily removed by conventional methodologies. To satisfy consumer demands, additional functionalities to improve material properties by advanced technologies are being developed on good appearance, hand feel, easy care, comfort, etc.
Examples:
- Thermal and moisture management fabrics and garments
- Nano materials
- Shape memory polymers, fabrics and garments
- Smart garments for healthcare applications
- Functional fibres
Local manufacturers seek high productivity incorporated with consistent product quality and flexible provisions. High production cost, stringent environmental controls and soaring price of fuel/oil have stimulated demands for advanced textiles and clothing production technologies to solve these issues.
Examples:
- Multiple functional treatments for fabrics and garment
- New colouration technologies
- New finishing technologies
- New spinning technologies
- 3D pattern CAD
Manufacturers are working towards new clothing functional designs to incorporate functionality and durability of the final products. In particular, garment fit issues could be resolved by considering material properties in functional design operation. Objective product evaluation technology is being developed to replace traditional subjective evaluation which incurs inconsistent/inaccurate results due to human error, inaccurate calibration of testing equipment, etc.
Examples:
- New mannequin for product development and evaluation
- Quality evaluation systems
- Product specification
- Garment fit
Up-to-date and comprehensive database on textile sourcing and fashion design are required by young designers and merchandisers in obtaining related information to facilitate their work. Local practitioners and students seek better portals to upgrade their knowledge on textile and clothing technologies.
Examples:
- Knowledge portal
- Yarn and fabric database
- Fashion design database
- Industrial consortium
- Training and consultancies