The contribution of 3d modeling to digital transformation and sustainability in the fashion industry

Authors

  • Rosiane Serrano Instituto Federal de Educação,Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul - Campus Erechim (IFRS), Erechim, RS, Brasil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6618-0839
  • João Victor Scandolara Instituto Federal de Educação,Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul - Campus Erechim (IFRS), Erechim, RS, Brasil.
  • Ana Julia Dal Forno Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Campus Blumenau, SC, Brasil. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2441-5385

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14488/1676-1901.v26i2.5789

Keywords:

Three-dimensional (3D), Digital transformation, Circular Economy

Abstract

Digitalization has significantly impacted the development of fashion products, promoting greater efficiency in creative and production processes while reducing environmental impacts. Among these technologies, three-dimensional (3D) modelling stands out as a strategic tool, as it enables virtual prototyping, fit testing, and adjustments without the need for multiple physical samples. This approach contributes to reducing the consumption of materials, energy, and production time, aligning the sector with the principles of the Circular Economy. Despite this potential, the adoption of 3D modelling still faces challenges related to acquisition costs, the need for advanced hardware, and technical training requirements, which are particularly critical for small companies and independent designers. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate how 3D modelling technologies support digital transformation and sustainability in the fashion industry by comparing two widely used software packages: CLO3D and Z-Weave. The study followed a Design Science Research (DSR) approach, in which analysis criteria related to usability, learning curve, functional differences, operational fluidity, and modelling development stages were defined. The results indicate that CLO3D outperforms Z-Weave in five criteria, while Z-Weave shows superior performance in three. These findings demonstrate that the selection of 3D modelling software depends on user priorities and the specific production context, providing technical support for decision-making regarding the adoption of digital solutions aligned with sustainability goals in the fashion sector.

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Author Biographies

Rosiane Serrano, Instituto Federal de Educação,Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul - Campus Erechim (IFRS), Erechim, RS, Brasil.

Doutora em Engenharia de Produção e Sistemas pela Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (UNISINOS), com pós-doutorado na mesma instituição e área. É professora, pesquisadora e Coordenadora de Pesquisa, Pós-Graduação e Inovação no Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS) – Campus Erechim. Atua nas áreas de tecnologia, dispositivos vestíveis (wearables) e economia circular, com foco em inovação e sustentabilidade.

João Victor Scandolara, Instituto Federal de Educação,Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul - Campus Erechim (IFRS), Erechim, RS, Brasil.

Especialista em Modelagem Criativa com ênfase em Sustentabilidade e Tecnólogo em Design de Moda pelo Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS) – Campus Erechim, além de Técnico em Marketing pelo Senac/RS. Atua profissionalmente nas áreas de modelagem e encaixe computadorizados, com interesse em processos digitais aplicados ao setor do vestuário.

Ana Julia Dal Forno, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Campus Blumenau, SC, Brasil.

Doutora em Engenharia de Produção pela Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), com período sanduíche na Universidade Técnica de Berlim. É Professora Associada do Departamento de Engenharia Têxtil da UFSC – Campus Blumenau desde 2014. Suas linhas de pesquisa incluem gestão da qualidade 4.0, manufatura enxuta e benchmarking em empresas têxteis.

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Published

2026-04-30

How to Cite

Serrano, R., Scandolara, J. V., & Dal Forno, A. J. (2026). The contribution of 3d modeling to digital transformation and sustainability in the fashion industry. Revista Produção Online, 26(2), 5789 . https://doi.org/10.14488/1676-1901.v26i2.5789