Process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, and computer program

Abstract

A process (P) of designing of textile items comprising the following steps: A) uploading a file containing a garment sample (1) from a memory of an electronic processor (2); B) generating a 2D model consisting of a representation in an X-Y plane of a fabric to be produced, for realizing the garment, by means of a knitting machine (T); C) transforming the 2D model for adapting it to the garment sample, so as to generate a 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by the fabric when fitted on the garment sample, wherein each point of the 3D model presents a univocal correspondence with a respective pixel of the 2D model; D) displaying on a screen (3) the three-dimensional view of the 3D model; E) by a user, inserting a selection / change command of the 3D model, the command executing in an iterative manner the following succession of operations: F) selecting at least one point of the 3D model; G) attributing to the point of the 3D model at least a parameter; H) regenerating an updated version of the 2D model; I) retransforming the 2D model so as to generate an updated version of the 3D model; J) displaying an updated version of the 3D model. The process comprises a step (K) of compiling a machine program obtained by means of an electronic processing of the 2D and comprising the instructions necessary to operate a knitting machine (T).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] “Process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, and computer program”

[0003] Field of the finding

[0004] The present invention relates to the textile field and the field of computer programs, namely modelling computer programs.

[0005] In detail, the present invention relates to a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, in particular with the aid of a computer program.

[0006] The present invention further concerns a computer program for designing of textile items, clothing items and garments.

[0007] The present invention further concerns an electronic device for designing of textile items, clothing items and garments.

[0008] The present invention is intended for use in particular, though not exclusively, in the technical field of designing of textile items to be produced by means of circular weft knitting machines.

[0009] Background of the finding

[0010] The production of textile items, from a substantially artisanal activity and carried out entirely by hand, has over time turned into an industrial activity, in which - although the contribution of design constitutes the pivotal element for market success along with product quality - many procedures, comprising the designing of the item itself, have followed the technological evolution to switch from a manual to an automatic production, i.e. by means of machines. In particular this is what happened in the clothing and footwear fields, where at the time the activity, although on a commercial scale, was purely hand-based and only in recent times has turned into a highly automated activity.

[0011] Textile items such as for example knitwear, trousers, socks, etc., as well as shoes, typically comprise a three- dimensional and curved profile or shape, in particular, the profile or shape of a garment is defined by several portions which are typically not produced in a single piece, but by means of several parts processed and joined together by stitching and / or packaging operations.

[0012] The production of textile items such as pullovers, trousers, socks or shoe uppers can be carried out by means of circular knitting machines, which have a plurality of needles arranged in a circular profile knitted bed, which allow to produce an item with a substantially tubular shape, which is then possibly cut and / or subjected to further processing operations.

[0013] Alternatively, the production of textile items can be carried out by means of rectilinear knitting machines, which have a plurality of needles arranged in a linear profile knitted bed. For the textile items, and in particular for the production of garments, in the definition of the profile or perimeter of the various sub-portions to be produced, it is known to use software for the generation of computerised models.

[0014] Nowadays, all textile machines are mostly programmed with software capable of generating 2D models, i.e. two-dimensional models: these models are substantially a flat representation of the shape of the garment to be produced, for example a shirt, trousers or undergarment.

[0015] Within the two-dimensional models there are typically different zones that identify the processes selected by the programmer, for example yarn colours, selections of particular knitting stitches, lettering, logos, etc.

[0016] The programming of the fabric to be produced, which will then constitute the textile article or part of it, takes place on the two-dimensional model.

[0017] Some known processes provide that, at the end of the programming step of the fabric to be produced, the software - through an electronic processing of the 2D model data - generates a 3D representation, i.e. three- dimensional, of the garment to be produced; this 3D representation is substantially a "rendering” showing the three-dimensional result of the garment that can be obtained by means of the previously defined flat fabric and to be produced by means of a textile machine.

[0018] In known solutions, the 3D model is only a graphical representation, typically approximate, of the garment that will be obtained with a fabric produced according to the specifications defined on the two-dimensional model. Known processes developed over the years seek to generate increasingly realistic three-dimensional representations of the garment to be obtained, i.e. as close as possible to the actual result.

[0019] In addition to the above, it must be noted that nowadays, once the design has been completed by the programmer (i.e. the programming / definition of the 2D model, possibly displayed by means of a 3D rendering), it is necessary that the design is transferred to a machine-textile operator, typically different from the person who programmed the 2D model. The machine-textile operator, using an additional technical software for knitting machines, is responsible for translating the 2D design into a programme, using machine language, which is then sent to the textile machine that will physically produce the fabric. In other words, in order to be "uploaded" to the knitting machine and carried out to create knits, the 2D model must undergo a passage through a different software that generates a "machine code" written in the correct language that the textile machine is capable of understanding and carrying out.

[0020] Summary

[0021] In the context of designing textile items and programming knitting machines for the production of fabrics, the Applicant has found the presence of certain limitations and drawbacks, and considers the known solutions to be improvable in different aspects. First of all, the known processes are complex and typically require long times to complete the operations of designing the garment to be produced.

[0022] Furthermore, known processes require a high level of specialisation, which often prevents non-highly specialised personnel from being able to design a textile item autonomously. Thus, the audience of possible users of known processes and software is small and does not comprise personnel, for example stylists, contractors or operators of companies that produce garments, who may want instead to create models of new garments (for example, to participate in the definition of collections) even though they do not possess any particular skills in knitting machine programming.

[0023] A further drawback of the known processes is represented by the fact that the various operations through which it is reached the definition of an article / sample require the collaboration of several professionals (stylists, model makers, textile technicians, etc.) and these are typically located in separate production realities that often present difficulties in comparing and sharing a specific project.

[0024] Furthermore, the known processes - operating a programming on the 2D model and a simplified 3D rendering - are typically not able to provide as a result a "virtual” sample of the garment to be made, i.e. a faithful representation of what is to be realised with the textile machine. Known solutions have limitations in effectively and reliably showing what will actually be produced, both in terms of the fabric - produced on the knitting machine - and the subsequent packaging steps. This means that the gap between the designed garment and the real garment can be quite large and unsatisfactory in terms of quality or aesthetic or functional performance. The last two drawbacks mentioned above lead, on the whole, to the potential creation of processing waste, even in large quantities. The limitations of programming make more sampling activities necessary and / or may generate, following the actual processing, garments unsuitable or not meeting the specifications defined at the designing step, and therefore destined to be discarded.

[0025] In this situation, an object at the basis of the present invention, in its various aspects and / or embodiments, is to make available a process of designing textile items, clothing items and garments, a computer programme and a device for designing textile items which may be able to overcome one or more of the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0026] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program which allow to implement an improved and evolved designing of textile items, clothing items and garments.

[0027] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program able to operate in an innovative manner with respect to the known solutions.

[0028] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program able to reduce the times necessary for completing the operations of designing of the garment to be produced. A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program that can be used successfully also from non-highly specialised personnel, in such a way to increase the audience of users able to design a textile item autonomously.

[0029] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program able to provide a processing as realistic as possible of the actual textile item which will be obtained after the designing operation.

[0030] It is also an object of the present invention to propose a process of designing of textile items and a computer program able to reduce the processing waste associated with the production of clothing items and garments.

[0031] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program which allow to improve the performance of the knitting machines, for example in terms of productivity and / or quality of the produced items, with respect to known solutions.

[0032] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program which are versatile and adaptable to different needs of programming in the textile field and to different typologies of textile items.

[0033] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program having high technical characteristics.

[0034] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program able to provide to users an assembly of advanced functions and evolved commands with respect to the known art.

[0035] A further object of the present invention is to make available a process of designing of textile items and a computer program characterized by an evolved interaction with the user.

[0036] A further object of the present invention is to create alternative solutions, with respect to the known art, in the field of processes of designing of textile items, of computer programs and of devices for designing of textile items, and / or to open new areas of development.

[0037] These purposes and any others, which will result during the following description, are substantially reached by a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, to be produced in particular by means of circular knitting machines, of a computer program and of a device for designing textile items, according to one or more of the attached claims, as well as according to the following aspects and / or embodiments, variously combined, possibly also with the above-mentioned claims.

[0038] Aspects of the invention are hereinafter listed.

[0039] In a first aspect thereof, the present invention refers to a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, the process comprising at least the following steps: A) uploading at least one file containing a garment sample from a memory of at least one electronic processor, said garment sample defining a three-dimensional surface corresponding to a conformation assumed by the garment in use, i.e. when worn by a user of said garment;

[0040] B) generating, by means of electronic processing of said garment sample executed by said at least one electronic processor, a 2D model consisting of a representation in an X-Y plane of a tubular fabric to be produced, for realizing said garment, by means of a circular weft knitting machine, wherein said representation in an X-Y plane is a grid of pixels characterized at least by:

[0041] - a series of Xi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of needles of the circular knitting machine;

[0042] - a series of Yi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of successive stitch rows to be produced with the circular knitting machine; wherein each pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane is defined by a respective pair of Xi-Yi coordinates, each pixel corresponding to a stitch to be realized with the circular knitting machine;

[0043] In an aspect the process comprises the step of:

[0044] C) transforming, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor, said 2D model for adapting it to said three-dimensional surface defined by said garment sample, so as to generate a 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by said fabric - defined in the 2D model - when fitted on said garment sample, wherein:

[0045] - each point of said 3D model presents a univocal correspondence with a respective pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model.

[0046] In an aspect, considerable an alternative definition to the preceding aspect, the step C) provides for generating a "3D model” on the basis of the three-dimensional surface of the garment sample, and for transforming, by means of electronic processing carried out by the electronic processor, the 2D model for adapting it to the three- dimensional surface of the 3D model. In an aspect said 3D model consists of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by said fabric - defined in the 2D model - when fitted (i.e. worn) on the garment sample.

[0047] In an aspect the process comprises the step of:

[0048] D) transmitting, by means of electronic processing of said 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor, an electrical signal of representation towards a screen connected to said electronic processor, wherein the transmission of said electrical signal of representation causes a displaying on said screen of a three-dimensional view of said 3D model corresponding to a spatial conformation assumed by a garment realized with the tubular fabric defined in said 2D model.

[0049] In an aspect the process comprises the step of: E) by a user, inserting a selection / change command of said 3D model, displayed on said screen, by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor and an electronic processing of said command executed by the electronic processor.

[0050] In an aspect said step E) of inserting a command is executable, over time, a plurality of times in succession by the user, and - for each step of inserting a command - the process executes in an iterative manner a procedure comprising at least the following succession of operations:

[0051] F) selecting or identifying at least one portion of said 3D model, wherein said portion is a single point of the 3D model or a set of contiguous points of the 3D model constituting an area;

[0052] G) attributing to said portion of 3D model at least one parameter selected among a plurality of possible parameters combinable to each pixel of the 2D model;

[0053] H) regenerating, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor, an updated version of the 2D model wherein the pixel, or the plurality of pixels, corresponding to said portion of the 3D model selected or identified in the step F) is updated with the attribution of said at least one parameter attributed in the step G);

[0054] I) retransforming, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor, said 2D model regenerated in the step H) so as to generate an updated version of the 3D model wherein said portion is updated with the attribution of said at least one parameter attributed in the step G);

[0055] J) retransmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor, an electrical signal of representation toward said screen, wherein the retransmission of said electrical signal of representation causes an updated display on the screen of the three-dimensional view of the 3D model.

[0056] In an aspect the process comprises the step of:

[0057] K) compiling, following a user-activated compiling command or at the end of a plurality of steps E) of inserting a selection / change command, a machine program obtained by means of an electronic processing of said 2D model executed by said at least one electronic processor, wherein said machine program comprises the instructions necessary to operate a circular weft knitting machine so that it realizes the knitting of said tubular fabric wherein each stitch corresponds to what is defined and codified in said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model.

[0058] It is to be noted that the process of the present invention can be implemented in an equivalent way also for productions by means of rectilinear knitting machines, i.e. having a needle bed with linear development. In this case, in the step B) the 2D model consists of a representation in an X-Y plane of a planar fabric to be produced, to realize said garment, by means of a rectilinear knitting machine, wherein the representation in an X-Y plane is a pixel grid characterized at least by: - a series of Xi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of needles of the circular knitting machine;

[0059] - a series of Yi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of successive stitch rows to be produced with the circular knitting machine; wherein each pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane is defined by a respective pair of Xi-Yi coordinates, each pixel corresponding to a stitch to be realized with the rectilinear knitting machine.

[0060] Analogously, the step K) provides for compiling a machine program that comprises the instructions necessary for activating a rectilinear knitting machine so that it realizes the knitting of a fabric.

[0061] In an aspect said steps F) and G) are exclusively executable on said 3D model displayed on said screen, in said steps F) and G) the user interacting exclusively with said points of the 3D model.

[0062] In an aspect the electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor in the step H) is exclusively executed on the 2D model.

[0063] In an aspect said 2D model, processed by said at least one electronic processor, comprises:

[0064] - both the information relative to each pixel necessary to generate the 3D model wherein each point presents a univocal matching with the respective pixel, on the basis of said garment sample uploaded;

[0065] - and the information relative to each pixel necessary to compile said machine program; said 2D model constituting an intermediate element between said 3D model and said machine program, by means of which each change of a pixel of the 2D model, processed as a result of a command inserted by the user on the corresponding point of the 3D model in said step E), determines:

[0066] - a generation of an updated 3D model and viewable on said screen;

[0067] - a compiling of an updated machine program.

[0068] In an aspect, each pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model is characterized by a set of parameters defining the stitch corresponding to that pixel, said set of parameters comprising one or more of the following parameters:

[0069] - typology of stitch, for example plain stitch, withdrawn stitch, float stitch, withdrawn stitch, float stitch, terrycloth knitted stitch, open-work stitch;

[0070] - typology of yarn;

[0071] - yarn color;

[0072] - yarn feeding tension.

[0073] In an aspect each parameter attributed to a point of the 3D model is identically attributed, according to a univocal association, even to the corresponding pixel of the 2D model, and vice versa.

[0074] In an aspect said step G) of attributing to said portion of 3D model at least a parameter occurs by means of a selection, for the first time, of said parameter to be attributed to said portion or by means of a change of a parameter previously attributed to the same portion.

[0075] In an aspect the process processes a triplet of different representations of the same garment: - said 2D model, generated in the step B) and updated in the step H);

[0076] - said 3D model, generated in the step C) and updated in the step I);

[0077] - said machine program, compiled in the step K); wherein among such different representations, at least the 2D model and the 3D model, and optionally the 2D model, the 3D model and the machine program, are always consistent - point by point - with each other and always characterized in that a change made by the user is transposed, substantially in real time, into each one of the representations.

[0078] In an aspect said step K) of compiling the machine program comprises:

[0079] - a step of storing said machine program on a storage medium, for example a mass memory; or

[0080] - a step of sending said machine program directly to a circular knitting machine.

[0081] In an aspect the process comprises a step L) of displaying on said screen one or more libraries each associated to a respective parameter of said set of parameters attributable to the points of the 3D model.

[0082] In an aspect each library comprises a list of attributable values, by part of the user, to the respective parameter to which the library is associated.

[0083] In an aspect said garment sample, loaded in said step A), is defined by at least the following two properties:

[0084] - typology of item, for example long-sleeved shirt, short-sleeved shirt, long pants, shorts, sock, jacket, tank top, hat, underwear, garment underwear;

[0085] - typology of figure: man's garment, woman's garment, physique.

[0086] In an aspect said step A) is executable by part of the user by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor.

[0087] In an aspect, in said step A) the user can select:

[0088] - said typology of items, from a list of possible typologies of items, and / or

[0089] - said typology of figure, from a list of possible typologies of figure.

[0090] In an aspect the process comprises a step M) of selecting the circular knitting machine destined to produce the tubular fabric for realizing said garment.

[0091] In an aspect said step M) is executed autonomously by said electronic processor on the basis of the characteristics of said garment sample loaded in the step A), in such a way that the circular knitting machine is suitable for producing a tubular fabric adapted to the realization of the garment.

[0092] In an aspect the process comprises a step N) of configuring said one or more libraries, displayed on said screen in said step L) in such a way that each library comprises only values, attributable by part of the user to the respective parameter to which the library is associated, effectively realizable with the circular knitting machine selected in said step M).

[0093] In an aspect the libraries change both in number and in the respective values on the basis of the selected machine. In an aspect said step M) comprises a step, autonomously executed by said electronic processor, of proposing to the user a list of possible circular knitting machines, loaded in a memory of the electronic processor, having technical characteristics such as to make them suitable for producing a tubular fabric adapted to the realization of the garment loaded in the step A).

[0094] In an aspect said technical characteristics of the knitting machine can be:

[0095] - diameter of the needle-holding cylinder, that constitutes a needle bed;

[0096] - number of needles of the needle-holding cylinder;

[0097] - gauge, i.e. quantity of needles per inch of the needle-holding cylinder;

[0098] - typology / configuration / number of falls (yarn feeding points);

[0099] - available yarns.

[0100] In an aspect said step M) of selecting the circular knitting machine is executed before the step A), in this case the electronic processor proposing to the user a list of possible models of suitable garments - on the basis of properties such as typology, shape, size - to be realized with a tubular fabric producible with the circular knitting machine selected in the step M).

[0101] In an aspect the process comprises a step 0), executed autonomously by said electronic processor on the basis of the characteristics of said garment sample loaded in the step A) and of said circular knitting machine selected in the step M), of originating and displaying on said screen an error signal if, in one or more of said steps E) of inserting a command, the user has attributed to one or more points of the 3D model values of said parameters not executable by the circular knitting machine, i.e., such as to make the tubular fabric non-producible.

[0102] In an aspect said step 0) is executed in real time, i.e. at each iteration of said step E), or at the moment of execution of said step K) of compiling the machine program.

[0103] In an aspect, said interaction between the user and the electronic processor in said step E) occurs by means of interface means comprising one or more among the following input devices in the following list: a mouse, a trackball, a hand-held pointing device, a keyboard, touch-sensitive means installed on said screen, voice command means.

[0104] In a further independent aspect, the present invention has as its object a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, comprising at least the following steps:

[0105] 51) uploading at least one file containing a garment sample from a memory of at least one electronic processor, said garment sample defining a three-dimensional surface corresponding to a conformation assumed by the garment in use, i.e. when worn by a user of said garment;

[0106] 52) generating, by means of electronic processing of said garment sample executed by said at least one electronic processor, a 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by a tubular fabric, produced by means of a circular weft knitting machine, when fitted on said garment sample i.e. when adapted to said three-dimensional surface defined by the garment sample, the 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation wherein:

[0107] - each point presents a univocal matching with a respective stitch to be realized with the circular knitting machine;

[0108] 53) transmitting, by means of electronic processing of said 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor, an electrical signal of representation towards a screen connected to said electronic processor, wherein the transmission of said electrical signal of representation causes a displaying on said screen of a three-dimensional view of said 3D model corresponding to a spatial conformation assumed by a garment realized with the tubular fabric defined in said 2D model;

[0109] 54) by a user, inserting a selection / change command of said 3D model, displayed on said screen, by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor and an electronic processing of said command executed by the electronic processor; wherein said step S4) of inserting a command is executable, over time, a plurality of times in succession by the user, and - for each step of inserting a command - the process executes in an iterative manner a procedure comprising at least the following succession of operations:

[0110] 55) selecting or identifying at least one portion of said 3D model, wherein said portion is a single point of the 3D model or a set of contiguous points of the 3D model constituting an area;

[0111] 56) attributing to said portion of 3D model at least one parameter selected among a plurality of possible parameters combinable to each stitch;

[0112] 57) retransforming, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor, an updated version of the 3D model wherein said portion is updated with the attribution of said at least one parameter attributed in the step S6);

[0113] 58) retransmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor, an electrical signal of representation toward said screen, wherein the retransmission of said electrical signal of representation causes an updated display on the screen of the three-dimensional view of the 3D model; the process comprising also a step of:

[0114] S9) compiling, following a user-activated compiling command or at the end of a plurality of steps S4) of inserting a selection / change command, a machine program obtained by means of an electronic processing of said 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor, wherein said machine program comprises the instructions necessary to operate a circular weft knitting machine so that it realizes the knitting of said tubular fabric wherein each stitch corresponds to what is defined and codified in said three-dimensional representation of the 3D model.

[0115] In an aspect, the invention refers to a software program uploadable in the memory of at least one electronic processor and configured to execute one or more of the steps of the process according to the above aspects. In an aspect said software is a unique and unitary for the entire process P, configured to carry out all of the above steps and to implement all of the described functions.

[0116] In an aspect, the invention refers to a device for designing textile items, comprising a data processing unit susceptible of loading and executing in memory said software program.

[0117] According to a further non-limiting aspect, the process of the present invention is a process implemented on computer.

[0118] The above aspects described for the process apply mutatis mutandis to the portions of aspects of the computer program which will be indicated hereinafter.

[0119] In an independent aspect thereof, the invention refers to a software program, uploadable in the memory of at least one electronic processor and configured to execute one or more of the steps of the process according to the preceding aspects.

[0120] In particular, according to a further aspect of the present invention, said software program comprises:

[0121] - loading means of at least one file containing a garment sample from a memory of at least one electronic processor;

[0122] - electronic processing means configured to cause:

[0123] - the generation of a 2D model consisting of a representation in an X-Y plane of a tubular fabric to be produced, for realizing said garment, by means of a circular weft knitting machine, wherein said representation in an X-Y plane is a grid of pixels characterized at least by:

[0124] - a series of Xi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of needles of the circular knitting machine;

[0125] - a series of Yi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of successive stitch rows to be produced with the circular knitting machine; wherein each pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane is defined by a respective pair of Xi-Yi coordinates, each pixel corresponding to a stitch to be realized with the circular knitting machine.

[0126] - the transformation of said 2D model for adapting it to the three-dimensional surface defined by said garment sample, so as to generate a 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by said fabric - defined in the 2D model - when fitted on said garment sample, wherein:

[0127] - each point of said 3D model presents a univocal correspondence with a respective pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model;

[0128] - the transmission of an electrical signal of representation towards a screen connected to said electronic processor, wherein the transmission of said electrical signal of representation causes a displaying on said screen of a three-dimensional view of said 3D model corresponding to a spatial conformation assumed by a garment realized with the fabric defined in said 2D model; - the reception of a selection / change command of said 3D model, insertable by a user and displayed on said screen, by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor and an electronic processing of said command executed by the electronic processor;

[0129] - the iterative execution, over time and for a plurality of times in succession following commands by the user, of said procedure comprising the succession of operations defined in the steps identified with F), G), H), I, J).

[0130] - the compiling of a machine program comprising the instructions necessary to operate a circular weft knitting machine so that it realizes the knitting of said tubular fabric wherein each stitch corresponds to what is defined and codified in said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model.

[0131] In an independent aspect thereof, the present invention refers to a knitting machine for the production of textile items, comprising the software program according to one or more of the preceding aspects.

[0132] According to another preferred and non-limiting aspect, said knitting machine is a circular weft knitting machine provided with a plurality of needles for the knitting of at least part of said textile item, said needles being arranged on a cylindrical surface.

[0133] Further characteristics and advantages will result more from the detailed description of a preferred embodiment of a process of designing of textile items, a computer program and a device for designing of textile items, according to the present invention.

[0134] Description of the figures

[0135] This description will be expressed herein with reference to the attached figures, provided for illustrative purposes only and therefore non-limiting, in which: figure 1 shows, by means of a schematic diagram, a possible embodiment of a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments according to the present invention; figure 2 shows, by means of a schematic diagram, a further possible embodiment of a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments according to the present invention;

[0136] Figure 3 shows an exemplary view of a non-limiting possible embodiment of the computer program object of the invention; the computer program of figure 3 is consistent with the process of designing outlined in figure 1 ;

[0137] Figure 4 shows a further exemplary view of a non-limiting possible embodiment of the computer program object of the invention; the computer program of figure 4 is consistent with the process of designing outlined in figure 2;

[0138] Figure 5 shows an exemplary block diagram of the operation of the computer program object of the invention. Detailed description

[0139] With reference to the block scheme / diagram of figure 1 , with the reference P has been indicated as a whole a process of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, according to the present invention, hereinafter also indicated simply as process P. Generally, the same reference number is used for the same or similar items, possibly in their embodiment variants.

[0140] It is to be noted that the block diagram of figure 1 shows both the steps of process P and their connection, in particular the sequentiality of the executed operations. The arrows schematically show the succession and order of execution of the different steps of the process, i.e. the "flow” of the algorithm at the basis of the process.

[0141] As shown in figure 1 , the method P comprises preferably the steps here indicated in a in an extremely concise way:

[0142] A) uploading at least one file containing a garment sample 1;

[0143] B) generating a 2D model on the basis of the garment sample 1 ;

[0144] C) generating a 3D model on the basis of the garment sample 1 and corresponding to the 2D model;

[0145] D) displaying the 3D model;

[0146] E) inserting in the 3D model, by a user, selection or change commands of the garment during the designing;

[0147] F) identifying the point or the portion of the 3D model to be modified;

[0148] G) attributing parameters to said point or portion of the 3D model;

[0149] H) reprocessing the 2D model to introduce the changes;

[0150] I) regenerating an updated version of the 3D model;

[0151] J) displaying, at each step of change, the updated 3D model;

[0152] K) at the end of the changes, compiling the machine program.

[0153] Each of the above-indicated steps is now described more in detail.

[0154] Step A) provides for uploading at least one file containing a garment sample 1 from a memory of at least one electronic processor 2; the garment sample defines a three-dimensional surface corresponding to a conformation assumed by the garment in use, i.e. when worn by a user of said garment.

[0155] Step B) provides for generating, by means of electronic processing of said garment sample 1 executed by the electronic processor 2, a "2D model” consisting of a representation in an X-Y plane of a tubular fabric to be produced, for realizing the garment, by means of a knitting machine T.

[0156] Preferably the knitting machine T is a circular weft knitting machine.

[0157] The representation in the X-Y plane is a pixel grid characterized at least by:

[0158] - a series of Xi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of needles of the knitting machine T;

[0159] - a series of Yi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of successive stitch rows to be produced with the knitting machine T. Each pixel of the representation in an X-Y plane is defined by a respective pair of Xi-Yi coordinates; each pixel corresponds then to a stitch to be realized with the knitting machine.

[0160] Step C) provides for generating a "3D model” on the basis of the garment sample 1 and transforming, by means of electronic processing executed by the electronic processor 2, the 2D model to adapt it to the three- dimensional surface of the 3D model; the "3D model” consists then of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by the fabric - defined in the 2D model - when fitted (i.e. worn) on the garment sample 1.

[0161] In the 3D model, each point presents a univocal correspondence with a respective pixel of the representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model.

[0162] Step D) provides for transmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by the electronic processor 2, an electrical signal of representation towards a screen 3 connected to the electronic processor 2. The transmission of an electrical signal of representation causes a displaying on the screen 3 of a three- dimensional view of the 3D model, corresponding to a spatial conformation assumed by a garment realized with the fabric defined in the 2D model.

[0163] Step E) is executed by a user and provides for inserting a selection / change command of the 3D model, displayed on the screen 3, by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor 2 and an electronic processing of the command executed by the electronic processor itself.

[0164] The step E) of inserting a command is executable, over time, a plurality of times in succession by the user, and - for each step of inserting a command - the process P executes in an iterative manner a procedure.

[0165] This procedure comprises at least one succession of operations identified as steps F), G), H), I) and J).

[0166] Step F) provide for selecting or identifying at least one "portion” of the 3D model, wherein said portion is a single point of the 3D model or a set of contiguous points of the 3D model constituting an area. An area of the 3D model is exemplarily indicated with the reference 4 in figures.

[0167] Step G) provides for attributing to said portion of 3D model at least one parameter selected among a plurality of possible parameters combinable to each pixel of the 2D model.

[0168] Step H) provides for regenerating, by means of electronic processing executed by the electronic processor 2, an updated version of the 2D model wherein the pixel, or the plurality of pixels, corresponding to the portion of the 3D model selected or identified in the step F) is updated with the attribution of said at least one parameter attributed in the step G).

[0169] Step I) provides for retransforming, by means of electronic processing executed by the electronic processor 2, the 2D model regenerated in the step H) so as to generate an updated version of the 3D model wherein said portion is updated with the attribution of the parameter attributed in the step G).

[0170] Step J) provides for retransmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by the electronic processor 2, an electrical signal of representation toward the screen 3; said retransmission of the electrical signal of representation causes an updated display on the screen 3 of the three-dimensional view of the 3D model.

[0171] The arrows in figure 1 show schematically that each step E) comprises within it the sequence of steps F), G), H), I) and J), and that each time that it is inserted a command the process P repeats in an iterative manner said sequence.

[0172] The process P comprises also a step K) of compiling a machine program obtained by means of an electronic processing of the 2d model executed by the electronic processor 2. The machine program comprises the instructions necessary to operate a knitting machine T so that it realizes the knitting of the fabric (preferably tubular), wherein each stitch corresponds to what is defined and codified in the representation in the X-Y plane of the 2D model.

[0173] Step K) is preferably executed following a user-activated compiling command or at the end of a plurality of steps E) of inserting a selection / change command.

[0174] Preferably step K) represents a final step of the process P.

[0175] It is to be noted, in figure 1 , the blocks that represent exemplarily the different steps and arrows that connect these blocks.

[0176] As it can be noted, from block A) two arrows depart, one directed to block B) and one to block C). In fact, is from the garment sample 1 , loaded in step A), that the process P generates first of all the 2D model and the representation thereof in the X-Y plane , in the step B). Furthermore, also step C) of generating the 3D model is based on the garment sample 1 , since the 3D model is actually a three-dimensional representation of the conformation assumed by the fabric defined in the 2D model when it is "worn” on the garment sample 1.

[0177] It can be said, substantially, that the process starts with the step A) wherein is loaded the garment sample 1 , and on the basis of the latter is immediately initialised:

[0178] - the 2D model of the fabric, defined as X-Y plane;

[0179] - the starting 3D model corresponding actually to the three-dimensional surface of the garment sample 1.

[0180] Step C) is then completed with the "dressing” of the 3D model, shaped on the basis of the selected garment sample, precisely with the fabric of the 2D model.

[0181] To this purpose, it can be observed the arrow going from step B) to step C): step C) is thus executed and completed on the basis of the two steps A) and B).

[0182] The arrow between blocks B) and C) is bidirectional - i.e. points from B) to C) but also from C) to B) - since the process P presupposes a continuous dialogue and exchange of information between the 2D model and the 3D model, that realizes said univocal correspondence between each point of the 3D model and the respective pixel of the 2D model.

[0183] Then, in figure 2, it is noted the arrow going from block C) to block D); this arrow represents the displaying on screen of the 3D model that occurs in the step D). It is to be noted that -preferably - at the beginning of the process, i.e. at the execution of the step A) wherein is generated or loaded the garment sample 1 , is initialised also a "basic” knitting type for the fabric, either automatically by the electronic processor 2 or by means of a selection made by the user. This means that the fabric, and consequently the garment 1 , already present a starting knit. This attribute affects both step B), i.e. in the starting 2D model of the fabric, and in the step C), i.e. in the starting 3D model. In the subsequent steps E) the user can naturally insert its commands and modify the knit at will in the various portions of the garment, as shown above

[0184] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, steps F) and G) are exclusively executable on the 3D model displayed on the screen 3; in said steps F) and G) the user interacts exclusively with the points of the 3D model. Preferably the electronic processing executed by an electronic processor in the step H) is exclusively executed on the 2D model.

[0185] Preferably the 2D model, processed by the electronic processor, comprises:

[0186] - both the information relative to each pixel necessary to generate the 3D model wherein each point presents a univocal matching with the respective pixel, on the basis of the garment sample 1 uploaded;

[0187] - and the information relative to each pixel necessary to compile the machine program.

[0188] Therefore, the 2D model constitutes an "intermediate element” between the 3D model and the machine program, by means of which each change of a pixel of the 2D model, processed as a result of a command inserted by the user on the corresponding point of the 3D model in the step E), determines:

[0189] - a generation of an updated 3D model and viewable on the screen 3;

[0190] - a compiling of an updated machine program.

[0191] Preferably, each pixel of the representation in the X-Y plane of the 2D model is characterized by a set of parameters defining the stitch corresponding to that pixel.

[0192] Said set of parameters comprises preferably one or more of the following parameters:

[0193] - typology of stitch, for example plain stitch, withdrawn stitch, float stitch, withdrawn stitch, float stitch, terrycloth knitted stitch, open-work stitch;

[0194] - typology of yarn, for example section / thickness, composition, morphology (yarn or spun), mechanical characteristics;

[0195] - yarn color;

[0196] - yarn feeding tension.

[0197] Preferably each parameter attributed to a point of the 3D model is identically attributed, according to a univocal association, even to the corresponding pixel of the 2D model, and vice versa.

[0198] Preferably the step G) of attributing to the portion of 3D model at least a parameter occurs:

[0199] - by means of a selection, for the first time, of the parameter to be attributed to the portion, or

[0200] - by means of a change of a parameter previously attributed to the same portion. It is to be noted that the process P processes a triplet of different representations of the same garment:

[0201] - the 2D model, generated in the step B) and updated in the step H);

[0202] - the 3D model, generated in the step C) and updated in the step I);

[0203] - the machine program, compiled in the step K).

[0204] Among such different representations, at least the first two (i.e. 2D model and 3D model), and preferably all three of them (i.e. 2D model, 3D model and machine program) are always consistent - point by point - with each other and always characterized in that a change made by the user is transposed, substantially in real time, into each one of the different representations. Exemplarily, the changes made to the 3D model and transposed on the 2D model, can be reported on the machine program, compiled in the step K), also only at the end of the designing of the textile item (i.e. of the interaction with the user that inserts the commands), and not necessarily in real time.

[0205] Preferably, the step K) of compiling the machine program comprises:

[0206] - a step of storing the machine program on a storage medium, for example a mass memory; or

[0207] - a step of sending the machine program directly to a knitting machine T (preferably of circular type), for example by means of a USB key or by means of a wiring or an Internet network or a wireless communication.

[0208] Preferably the process comprises a step L) of displaying on screen 3 one or more libraries 5 each associated to a respective parameter of said set of parameters attributable to the points of the 3D model.

[0209] Preferably each library comprises a list of attributable values, by part of the user, to the respective parameter to which the library is associated.

[0210] Examples of libraries can be for example the following ones: list of available stitches, list of yarns, list of colours, feeding tension values.

[0211] It is to be noted, in figure 1 , that the blocks L) and E) are connected to each other through a bidirectional arrow. In case the step L) displays on the screen 3 the libraries 5 associated to parameters connected to commands activated by the user in the step E), and / or to points of the 3D model selected by the user in the step E), the direction of the arrow goes from E) to L). On the contrary, it is possible that the electronic processor 2 proposes to the user libraries 5 comprising parameters and values usable by the user in the step E), typically on the basis of the knitting machine T selected: in this case the direction of the arrow goes from L) to E). For example, in the step L) are proposed to the user a list of stitches selectable in the step E).

[0212] Preferably the garment sample 1 , loaded in said step A), is defined by at least the following two properties:

[0213] - typology of item, for example long-sleeved shirt, short-sleeved shirt, long pants, shorts, sock, jacket, tank top, hat, underwear, garment underwear;

[0214] - typology of figure: man's garment, woman's garment, physique.

[0215] Preferably, the garment sample 1 loaded in said step A), is defined by another property constituted of a basic size of the garment, i.e. A starting size associated to said garment and that concurs, together with the typology of item and the typology of figure, to define the three-dimensional surface of the garment sample 1 to be displayed in the 3D model.

[0216] It is to be noted that the garment sample 1 , defined thanks to said properties, constitutes substantially a type of starting "mannequin” having the shape of the garment to be realised, destined then to be dressed with the fabric defined in the 2D model and thus visualised as a 3D model of the garment in real conditions of use.

[0217] Preferably step A) is executable by part of the user by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor 2.

[0218] Preferably in step A) the user can select:

[0219] - said typology of items, from a list of possible typologies of items, and / or

[0220] - said typology of figure, from a list of possible typologies of figures, and / or

[0221] - said basic size, from a list of possible garment sizes.

[0222] Preferably the process P comprises a step of modifying said garment sample 1 , loaded in the step A), so as to consequently transform the 3D model that three-dimensionally represents the conformation assumed by the fabric, defined in the 2D model, once "dressed” (i.e. worn, sleeved) on the garment sample.

[0223] Preferably said interaction between the user and the electronic processor 2 in said step E) occurs by means of interface means comprising one or more among the following input devices in the following list: a mouse, a trackball, a hand-held pointing device, a keyboard, touch-sensitive means installed on said screen, voice command means.

[0224] Preferably the process comprises a step M) of selecting the knitting machine T - preferably circular - destined to produce the fabric - preferably tubular - for realizing the garment.

[0225] In an aspect said step M) is executed autonomously by the electronic processor 2 on the basis of the characteristics of the garment sample 1 loaded in the step A), in such a way that the knitting machine T is suitable for producing a fabric adapted to the realization of the garment.

[0226] Preferably the process comprises a step N) of configuring said one or more libraries 5, displayed on said screen 3 in said step L), in such a way that each library 5 comprises only values, attributable by part of the user to the respective parameter to which the library is associated, effectively realizable with the knitting machine T selected in said step M).

[0227] For example, the library 5 of values associated to the "typology of stitch” parameter comprises and shows to the user only the stitches realizable with the knitting machine T selected in the step M).

[0228] Preferably the libraries 5 change both in number and in the respective values on the basis of the selected knitted machine.

[0229] Preferably the step M) comprises a step, autonomously executed by the electronic processor, of proposing to the user a list of possible knitting machines T, loaded in a memory of the electronic processor 2, having technical characteristics such as to make them suitable for producing a fabric adapted to the realization of the garment loaded in the step A).

[0230] Preferably the technical characteristics of the knitting machine can be:

[0231] - diameter of the needle-holding cylinder, that constitutes a needle bed;

[0232] - number of needles of the needle-holding cylinder;

[0233] - gauge (i.e. number of needles per inch of the bed constituted by the cylinder);

[0234] - typology / configuration / number of falls (yarn feeding points);

[0235] - available yarns.

[0236] Preferably the step M) of selecting the knitting machine T is executed before the step A); in this case the electronic processor 2 proposes to the user a list of possible models of suitable garments - on the basis of properties such as typology, shape, size - to be realized with a fabric producible with the knitting machine T selected in the step M).

[0237] It is to be noted, in figure 1 , that the blocks M) and A) are connected to each other through a bidirectional arrow. In the above-described case, in which the step M) is executed autonomously by the electronic processor 2 on the basis of the characteristics of the garment sample 1 selected in the step A), in such a way that the knitting machine T is suitable for producing said fabric, the direction of the arrow goes from A) to M). On the contrary, in case is selected before the knitting machine T, the electronic processor 2 proposes to the user a list of possible models of garments producible through said knitting machine, and then the direction of the arrow goes from M) to A).

[0238] In a possible embodiment, the process can comprise a step 0) of originating and displaying on the screen 3 an error signal if, in one or more of the steps E) of inserting a command, the user has attributed to one or more points of the 3D model of the values of the parameters not executable by the knitting machine T, i.e., such as to make the fabric non-producible.

[0239] Preferably the step 0 is executed autonomously by the electronic processor 2 on the basis of the characteristics of the garment sample 1 loaded in the step A) and of the knitting machine T selected in the step M).

[0240] Preferably the step 0) is executed in real time, i.e. at each iteration of the step E), or at the moment of execution of said step K) of compiling the machine program.

[0241] The process P can comprise further steps that realize further functions.

[0242] For example, it is possible to execute an operation of displaying on the 3D model of the tension or stress status (stretch) provided for each point of the garment on the 3D model. This is possible thanks to the bi-univocal matching between the 2D model and the 3D model, and thanks to the definition of rules on the basis of the programmed stitches and yarns used. The 2D model contains then, for each pixel, the information related to the stitch and to the yarn selected, as well as the information related to the contiguous pixels; the 3D model contains instead the information related to the three-dimensional conformation that the fabric / garment will assume once worn. By processing the set of these information is possible to display, on the 3D model the effective result at the level of tensions on the knit.

[0243] The different levels of tension / stress of the knitted fabric once the garment is worn can be highlighted using, for example, scales or color coding: different colors correspond to different tensions, or more intense and less intense gradations of a color correspond - respectively - to high tensions or reduced tensions. In this way the process P allows to observe in real time, during the designing of the garment by the user, the effective performance that the garment will have once worn: the 3D model acts substantially as "virtual garment” upon which observing - before continuing with the actual production - how the garment in use will effectively result. Figure 3 shows, in a schematic and absolutely exemplary and non-limiting way, an interface display of a computer program that implements the process P. In this figure it is possible to observe a schematic representation of above-described elements such as:

[0244] - the garment sample 1

[0245] - the 2D model with the representation in the X-Y plane;

[0246] - the 3D model;

[0247] - the sample area 4;

[0248] - the library 5;

[0249] - the knitting machine T.

[0250] It is to be noted that the actual 3D model, shown in figure, corresponds to the three-dimensional representation of the conformation assumed by the fabric defined in the 2D model when it is worn on the garment sample 1 . It is to be noted also that the 3D model results from the combination of the processed 2D model, of the resulting fabric and of the three-dimensional conformation of the garment sample 1 . However, even if the 3D model is a result of these processing, it is on it that the designing by the user occurs.

[0251] Substantially, the process P generates the 3D model starting from the 2D model, the user executes the programming acting on the 3D model, the process P modifies consequently the 2D model and regenerates again the 3D model that shows as result the effects of the programming carried out.

[0252] The process P executes then an innovative treatment and processing of the information of modelling with respect to the known solutions. The modelling is displayed for the user, and managed at command level, in 3d model, however the process processes it in 2d model; there is then a continuous communication between 2D model and 3D model and a continuous update of the displaying data for the user.

[0253] The process P realizes then a user experience that provides for a complete programming, by the user, directly on the 3D model displayed on the screen.

[0254] According to the embodiment of figures 1 and 3, the process provides that:

[0255] - the 2D model is always updated and modified on the basis of the commands inserted on the 3D model; - the 2D model contains all the information and is processed and translated, in the step K), in a language executable directly on the knitting machine T.

[0256] It is to be noted that, according to the above-described embodiment, the pointer / cursor with which the user moves on the screen identifies a position on the 3D model, however in reality this position is also virtually located on the 2D model, thanks to the bi-univocal matching between the points of the 3D model and pixels of the 2D model. The process, then, for each position selected by the user on the 3D model knows also the corresponding position on the 2D model.

[0257] The 2D model is, as shown above, in an intermediate position between 3D model and machine program: the 3D model allows the user to insert commands and display the result on the virtual garment, while the machine program is generated by the 2D model.

[0258] The 2D model contains:

[0259] - both the information for generating / simulating the realistic 3D model (i.e., the Xi-Yi coordinates), on the basis of which garment sample (i.e. such as "mannequin” or "avatar” of the garment) has been loaded and is in use;

[0260] - and the information that serve to the knitting machine for concretely realizing the fabric, and that flow into the instructions of the machine program ((but which do not serve to the 3D model).

[0261] The 2D model therefore does not correspond to a displaying of the fabric produced, i.e. it is not only an "open 3D model”: on the contrary, the 2D model is more complex as it also contains the information related to the three-dimensional model and the information to generate the program with which to operate the knitting machine.

[0262] The 2D model constituted then a common basis that communicates both with the 3D model and with the knitting machine.

[0263] The process P can comprise a further function of displaying / rendering on the 3D model. In particular, the 3D model can comprise the following textures:

[0264] - a first texture corresponding to a realistic simulation of the actual knitted fabric as it will concretely appear in the garment, on the basis of the programming choices made (different drawn areas and respective shapes, the chosen yarns, the colors, the selected stitches such as terrycloth knitted stitches or open-work knitted stitches, etc..);

[0265] - a second texture in which each area / portion drawn in the step of programming is colored or identified on the basis of a technical coding that associates to each color / painting of the background a different textile meaning, such as the type of stitch or processing. In this case, then, the colors displayed on the 3D model do not correspond to the actual result visible in the garment, but provide textile information to identify and distinguish on the 3D the various areas / portions designed. Preferably in the above-mentioned first texture, it is possible to display, by means of an appropriate enlargement command, the realistic path of the yarn that forms the structure of the weft knit, in a determined point or area of the garment.

[0266] Preferably the process P comprises a step of automatic creation of different versions of the same garment, designed on said 3D model on the basis of said garment sample 1 , wherein each version corresponds to a different size of the same garment (for example, S to XL or further sizes).

[0267] Preferably the process P comprises a step of generating a raster level (or raster plane) and a vectorial level (or vectorial plane) displayable, alternatively or simultaneously, at least on the 3D model, wherein:

[0268] - the raster level comprises one or more image elements in raster format, i.e. defined each one as a pixel grid wherein each pixel has a fixed attribute;

[0269] - the vectorial level comprises one or more image elements in vectorial format, i.e. defined each one by means of a set of mathematical and geometric rules capable of defining the relations among the different parts that compose the image.

[0270] Preferably the image elements of the raster level and / or of the vectorial level are displayed on the 3D model so as to realistically appear on said garment.

[0271] Preferably the process P comprises a function of loading or importing, by part of the user, of:

[0272] - a raster image element to be displayed in a determined position of the raster level, and / or

[0273] - a vectorial image element to be displayed in a determined position of the vectorial level; and / or

[0274] - a 3D element from other graphical software.

[0275] Preferably the process P comprises a function of drawing or modifying, by part of the user:

[0276] - a raster image element in a determined position of the raster level, and / or

[0277] - a vectorial image element in a determined position of the vectorial level.

[0278] Preferably the raster image element constitutes a static image defined by a grid of pixels, and does not allow manipulations. This means that in order to modify, for example enlarge, shrink or move, a part of the image, it is necessary to reconstruct or redraw that part with consequent change of the arrangement of pixels within the grid.

[0279] Preferably the vectorial image element constitutes a dynamic image comprising interest points and defined by mathematical and geometric relationships among the interest points, and allows changes such as selecting, enlarging, shrinking or moving a determined portion of the image generating new mathematical and geometric relationships among the interest points of the image itself.

[0280] Preferably the process P comprises a function of conversion of a raster image element of the raster level in a corresponding vectorial image element of the vectorial level, or vice versa.

[0281] Preferably the raster level and the vectorial level are displayed on the 3D model and each insertion or change of a raster image element and / or of a vectorial image element is automatically reported on the 2D model. Regarding the vectorial type images:

[0282] - they can be modified, for example zoomed in or out, without loss of definition;

[0283] - they are independent of size and resolution;

[0284] - they can be easily converted into a raster image;

[0285] - present, exemplarily, the following file formats: Al, EPS, PDF, CDR, SVG.

[0286] Regarding the vectorial type images:

[0287] - they cannot be modified, for example zoomed in or out, in an optimal way; the image (i.e. the grid of pixels) must be created directly at the desired size;

[0288] - their definition and resolution is determined by the number of points that constitute the pixel grid;

[0289] - their conversion into vectorial is feasible but complex.

[0290] - present, exemplarily, the following file formats: BMP, JPEG, PNG, GIF.

[0291] The present invention provides also for a further embodiment, schematised in the block diagram of figure 2.

[0292] This embodiment is indicated as process P1 .

[0293] The process P1 comprises the following steps:

[0294] 51) uploading at least one file containing a garment sample from a memory of at least one electronic processor, the garment sample defining a three-dimensional surface corresponding to a conformation assumed by the garment in use, i.e. when worn by a user of said garment;

[0295] 52) generating, by means of electronic processing of said garment sample executed by the at least one electronic processor, a 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by a fabric, produced by means of a weft knitting machine, when fitted on the garment sample i.e. when adapted to said three-dimensional surface defined by the garment sample, the 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation wherein each point presents a univocal matching with a respective stitch to be realized with the knitting machine;

[0296] 53) transmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by the at least one electronic processor, an electrical signal of representation towards a screen connected to the electronic processor, wherein the transmission of the electrical signal of representation causes a displaying on the screen of a three- dimensional view of the 3D model corresponding to a spatial conformation assumed by a garment realized with the said fabric;

[0297] 54) by a user, inserting a selection / change command the 3D model, displayed on the screen, by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor and an electronic processing of the command executed by the electronic processor; wherein the step S4) of inserting a command is executable, over time, a plurality of times in succession by the user, and - for each step of inserting a command - the process executes in an iterative manner a procedure comprising at least the following succession of operations: 55) selecting or identifying at least one portion of the 3D model, wherein the portion is a single point of the 3D model or a set of contiguous points of the 3D model constituting an area;

[0298] 56) attributing to the portion of 3D model at least one parameter selected among a plurality of possible parameters combinable to each stitch;

[0299] 57) retransforming, by means of electronic processing executed by the electronic processor, an updated version of the 3D model wherein the portion is updated with the attribution of the parameter attributed in the step S6);

[0300] 58) retransmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by the electronic processor, an electrical signal of representation toward the screen, wherein the retransmission of the electrical signal of representation causes an updated display on the screen of the three-dimensional view of the 3D model.

[0301] The process P1 comprises also a step S9) of compiling, following a user-activated compiling command or at the end of a plurality of steps S4) of inserting a selection / change command, a machine program obtained by means of an electronic processing of said 3D model executed by the electronic processor, wherein the machine program comprises the instructions necessary to operate a knitting machine so that it realizes the knitting of the tubular fabric wherein each stitch corresponds to what is defined and codified in the three-dimensional representation of the 3D model.

[0302] Figure 4 shows, in a schematic and absolutely exemplary and non-limiting way, an interface display of a computer program that implements the process P1. In this figure it is possible to observe a schematic representation of above-described elements such as:

[0303] - the garment sample 1

[0304] - the 3D model;

[0305] - the sample area 4;

[0306] - the library 5;

[0307] - the knitting machine T.

[0308] It is to be noted that in the embodiment in figure 2 and 4, the process P1 provides for a modelling, an interaction with the user and a programming of the knitting machine entirely executed from, and on, the 3D model.

[0309] With reference to figure 5, the computer program which is the object of the invention is preferably loaded into the memory 6 of a processor 2 provided with a microprocessor (piP) or data processing unit connected in a known manner with a screen. To the electronic processor 2 is further connected, optionally, a knitting machine T for the production or processing of a textile item, and in particular a knitting machine T of circular or rectilinear type.

[0310] Inside the memory 6 is present at least one file containing a garment sample 1 . The process described in the present invention can be implemented by means of a data processing unit, technically replaceable with one or more electronic processors conceived for executing a portion of a software or firmware program predefined and loaded on a non-transitory memory medium. This software program can be written in any programming language of a known type. The electronic processors, if in a number equal to two or more, can be connected to each other by means of a data connection such that their computing powers are shared in any way; the same electronic processors can thus be installed in positions that are also geographically different.

[0311] The data processing unit can be a general purpose type processor specifically configured through said software or firmware program to execute one or more parts of the process identified in the present invention, or be an ASIC or dedicated processor specifically programmed to execute at least part of the operations of the process of the present invention.

[0312] The non-transitory memory medium for containing the aforementioned portion of the software or firmware program can be internal or external to the processor itself, possibly even external to the electronic processor, and can - specifically - be a memory geographically located remotely with respect to the electronic processor. The memory medium can be also physically divided, in the form of a "cloud”. As 'non-transitory' is intended a computer-readable memory medium, wherein the data storage is temporally maintained for a predefined time, albeit variable on the basis of power and / or environmental conditions, and is a tangible medium.

[0313] It is clear that to the object of the present invention can be applied additions, modifications or variants obvious for an expert in the art, without thereby falling outside the scope provided by the attached claims.

[0314] The process of the present invention can be integrated into a single, complete and fully integrated software platform, that can be shared via the cloud, based on functionalities that also allow the interaction with other software dedicated to such garment design operations.

[0315] The present invention achieves important advantages.

[0316] First of all, the Applicant has verified that the invention allows to solve the issues and overcome the above- mentioned limits typical of the known solutions, and then to obtain the set purposes.

[0317] In particular, the process and the related software are characterized by an innovative operation, that provides for executing the steps above-identified as:

[0318] - A), B), C), D), E), F), G), H), I), J), K) (figure 1); or

[0319] - S1 ), S2), S3), S4), S5), S6), S7), S8), S9) (figure 2).

[0320] The technical solution of the present invention allows to design and draw directly on a "virtual 3D mannequin” (i.e. the user-modifiable 3D model) and, as a unit, generate a file of machine program to be loaded or sent directly onto the knitting machine (preferably a circular weft knitting machine), and then execute directly the knitting of the garment.

[0321] The process of the present invention allows advantageously to: - define the design of a garment with an entirely digital process;

[0322] - obtain a significant time saving in designing garments;

[0323] - obtain a significant saving in terms of the textile material required for the definition of a garment;

[0324] - involve several different operators in the development of the garment, even those typically excluded from garment designing as they lack specific knitting skills; for example, the customer (i.e. the project commissioner) can also be actively involved, who typically has to rely on external personnel or wait, for each project, that is the specialised technician to operate on the design software for him;

[0325] - manage the different steps of the production of a garment and the different operators involved in an efficient way even if the steps are carried out at different times and / or places or the operators are also in different places (such different places often being very far apart). The process and the software of the present invention can be implemented without issues even at different times and places, without the need for foreseeing movements and physical meetings between people or for the steps to be carried out at the same time. For example, it is not necessary that all the people involved, such as the stylist, the customer, the manufacturer, the packager, etc., constantly move around to meet physically; process and software can be implemented / shared remotely and each operator can cooperate by intervening where necessary according to his or her role.

[0326] - quickly and efficiently execute a virtual sampling of the garments to be produced, by means of realistic displaying made possible by the 3D model and programming directly on it;

[0327] - considerably reduce, and even eliminate, the processing waste associated with traditional sampling and products that do not meet specifications or do not comply with set quality standards.

[0328] The solution underlying the present invention allows, for example, a designer to draw the virtual garment on the 3D and pass it directly to the machine for production: the operator / textile machine operator will only have to manage or supervise its proper functioning and execute simple operations such as loading the yarn bobbins, without the need for further technical programming steps.

[0329] Overall, the technical solution of the present invention allows to implement a designing of textile items characterised by several innovative aspects:

[0330] 1 . first of all, it is possible to draw and design a "virtual” garment, and to do so only and directly in 3D mode, i.e. by displaying it on the screen and only acting on the three-dimensional model;

[0331] 2. it is possible to draw and design the garment directly on an "avatar”, i.e. a sort of virtual mannequin having already the conformation of the target user of that garment, for example: man, woman, size of the garment, typology of the user's physique (over-muscled, skinny, etc.); the virtual mannequin allows to observe immediately the actual performance that the garment will have once worn by the user;

[0332] 3. it is possible to program the knitting machine (i.e. obtain the machine program) directly from the virtual garment designed and drawn in 3D mode. This allows, for example, a designer to design the garment directly in the software that implements the process and, once completed, ask the customer whether the designed garment is approved and, in the event of a positive response, it is possible to send the design directly to the knitting machine, where it is loaded and executed;

[0333] 4. the process and related software of the present invention allow to implement a "realism / predictiveness” functionality: substantially, the garment (unfinished, not necessarily finished) that is produced by the knitting machine as a result of the programming will actually have the same characteristics shown in the virtual garment in the 3D model as designed. This means that the process and the software allow a faithful designing of the garment. The three-dimensional designing is capable of accurately predicting which actual characteristics (aesthetics and performance) the finished garment will actually have;

[0334] 5. the process and related software of the present invention allow a programming of the textile machine even by personnel without high mechanical-textile know-how. Until now, the known solutions required, for a correct programming, the presence of a specialised technician (with knitting and machine programming skills), as programming always required a specific knowledge of the target knitting machine; on the contrary, the present technical solution does not require such skills as the system is capable of managing the machine side (and generating the machine program) autonomously;

[0335] 6. the process and related software of the present invention can allow to set limits for the user in the operations of defining the garment: substantially, the software allows to program the garment with only the textile possibilities made available by the technical characteristics of the particular knitting machine selected to realise the fabric. It is also possible, for example, that a designer - commissioned to design a garment - asks his client which knitting machines he will have available to produce the fabric with which to produce the garment, and - once the typology of knitting machine identified among those available has been inserted into the software - the software generates a set of possible functionalities (typologies of knitted stitches, extension of the different programmable zones, etc.) comprising only the operations effectively executable, avoiding to design a garment that is not realisable; all this, again, even without the user having any concrete knowledge of the knitting machine.

[0336] The solution of the present invention consists of a "digital designing” that offers a path towards the sustainable fashion, allowing a fully digital decision-making process (i.e. garment programming) and thus bringing a significant cost and time saving and an environmental advantage as, by being able to display a simulated preview, it is possible to eliminate textile waste; this is an advancement compared to known solutions, as to date a great deal of waste is typically generated due to the need for producing sample garments on the machinery each time.

[0337] Furthermore, thanks to the simplicity with which the garments can be designed, the process and the related software can also be used - as shown above - by people without much knitting know-how behind them, allowing companies to quickly add new professionals to their production workforce and / or profitably employ the existing ones. The solution of the present invention is to intervene in the programming of a textile item even remotely, for example if several parties involved (designer, customer, producer) need to actively participate in the programming.

[0338] The software of the present invention can operate in cloud mode, i.e. using servers and databases on a network and thus shared. In this way, it is possible to program from anywhere, accessing the servers on the network, and even as several people at the same time or at different times.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1 . Process (P) of designing of textile items, clothing items and garments, the process comprising at least the following steps:A) uploading at least one file containing a garment sample (1) from a memory of at least one electronic processor (2), said garment sample (1) defining a three-dimensional surface corresponding to a conformation assumed by the garment in use, i.e. when worn by a user of said garment;B) generating, by means of electronic processing of said garment sample (1) executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), a 2D model consisting of a representation in an X-Y plane of a tubular fabric to be produced, for realizing said garment, by means of a circular weft knitting machine (T), wherein said representation in an X-Y plane is a grid of pixels characterized at least by:- a series of Xi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of needles of the circular knitting machine (T);- a series of Yi coordinates corresponding to a plurality of successive stitch rows to be produced with the circular knitting machine (T); wherein each pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane is defined by a respective pair of Xi-Yi coordinates, each pixel corresponding to a stitch to be realized with the circular knitting machine (T);C) transforming, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), said 2D model for adapting it to said three-dimensional surface defined by said garment sample (1), so as to generate a 3D model consisting of a three-dimensional representation corresponding to a conformation assumed by said fabric - defined in the 2D model - when fitted on said garment sample (1), wherein:- each point of said 3D model presents a univocal correspondence with a respective pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model;D) transmitting, by means of electronic processing of said 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), an electrical signal of representation towards a screen (3) connected to said electronic processor (2), wherein the transmission of said electrical signal of representation causes a displaying on said screen (3) of a three-dimensional view of said 3D model corresponding to a spatial conformation assumed by a garment realized with the tubular fabric defined in said 2D model;E) by a user, inserting a selection / change command of said 3D model, displayed on said screen (3), by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor (2) and an electronic processing of said command executed by the electronic processor (2); wherein said step E) of inserting a command is executable, over time, a plurality of times in succession by the user, and - for each step of inserting a command - the process (P) executes in an iterative manner a procedure comprising at least the following succession of operations:F) selecting or identifying at least one portion of said 3D model, wherein said portion is a single point of the 3D model or a set of contiguous points of the 3D model constituting an area (4);G) attributing to said portion of 3D model at least one parameter selected among a plurality of possible parameters combinable to each pixel of the 2D model;H) regenerating, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), an updated version of the 2D model wherein the pixel, or the plurality of pixels, corresponding to said portion of the 3D model selected or identified in the step F) is updated with the attribution of said at least one parameter attributed in the step G);I) retransforming, by means of electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), said 2D model regenerated in the step H) so as to generate an updated version of the 3D model wherein said portion is updated with the attribution of said at least one parameter attributed in the step G);J) retransmitting, by means of electronic processing of the 3D model executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), an electrical signal of representation toward said screen (3), wherein the retransmission of said electrical signal of representation causes an updated display on the screen (3) of the three-dimensional view of the 3D model; the process (P) comprising also a step of:K) compiling, following a user-activated compiling command or at the end of a plurality of steps E) of inserting a selection / change command, a machine program obtained by means of an electronic processing of said 2D model executed by said at least one electronic processor (2), wherein said machine program comprises the instructions necessary to operate a circular weft knitting machine (T) so that it realizes the knitting of said tubular fabric wherein each stitch corresponds to what is defined and codified in said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model.

2. Process according to claim 1 , wherein said steps F) and G) are executable exclusively on said 3D model, displayed on said screen (3), in said steps F) and G) the user interacting exclusively with said points of the 3D model; and / or wherein the electronic processing executed by said at least one electronic processor (2) in the step H) is executed exclusively on the 2D model.

3. Process according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said 2D model, processed by said at least one electronic processor (2), comprises:- both the information relative to each pixel necessary to generate the 3D model wherein each point presents a univocal matching with the respective pixel, on the basis of said garment sample uploaded;- and the information relative to each pixel necessary to compile said machine program; said 2D model constituting an intermediate element between said 3D model and said machine program, by means of which each change of a pixel of the 2D model, processed as a result of a command inserted by the user on the corresponding point of the 3D model in said step E), determines:- a generation of an updated 3D model and viewable on said screen (3);- a compiling of an updated machine program.

4. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each pixel of said representation in an X-Y plane of the 2D model is characterized by a set of parameters defining the stitch corresponding to that pixel, said set of parameters comprising one or more of the following parameters:- typology of stitch, for example plain stitch, withdrawn stitch, float stitch, withdrawn stitch, float stitch, terrycloth knitted stitch, open-work stitch;- typology of yarn, for example thickness, section, composition, morphology, mechanical characteristics;- yarn color;- yarn feeding tension, and / or wherein each parameter attributed to a point of the 3D model is identically attributed, according to a univocal association, even to the corresponding pixel of the 2D model, and vice versa, and / or wherein said step G) of attributing to said portion of 3D model at least one parameter occurs by means of a selection, for the first time, of said parameter to be attributed to said portion or by means of a change of a parameter previously attributed to the same portion.

5. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the process processes a triplet of different representations of the same garment:- said 2D model, generated in the step B) and updated in the step H);- said 3D model, generated in the step C) and updated in the step I);- said machine program, compiled in the step K); wherein among such different representations, at least said 2D model and said 3D model are always consistent- point by point - with each other and always characterized in that a change made by the user is transposed, substantially in real time, into each one of the representations.

6. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said step K) of compiling the machine program comprises:- a step of storing said machine program on a storage medium, for example a mass memory; or- a step of sending said machine program directly to a circular knitting machine (T).

7. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a step L) of displaying on said screen (3) one or more libraries (5) each associated to a respective parameter of said set of parameters attributable to the points of the 3D model, and wherein each library (5) comprises a list of attributable values, by part of the user, to the respective parameter to which the library is associated, and / or wherein said garment sample (1), loaded in said step A), is defined by at least one or more of the following properties:- typology of item, for example long-sleeved shirt, short-sleeved shirt, long pants, shorts, sock, jacket, tank top, hat, underwear, garment underwear;- typology of figure: man's garment, woman's garment, physique;- basic size, i.e. a starting size associated to said garment.

8. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said step A) is executable by part of the user by means of an interaction between the user and the electronic processor (2), and wherein in said step A) the user can select:- said typology of items, from a list of possible typologies of items, and / or- said typology of figure, from a list of possible typologies of figure, and / or- said basic size, from a list of possible garment sizes; and / or wherein the process comprises a step of modifying said garment sample (1), loaded in the step A), so as to consequently transform the 3D model that three-dimensionally represents the conformation assumed by the fabric, defined in the 2D model, once dressed on the garment sample; and / or wherein the process comprises a step of automatic creation of different versions of the same garment, designed on said 3D model on the basis of said garment sample (1), wherein each version corresponds to a different size of the same garment.

9. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a step M) of selecting the circular knitting machine (T) destined to produce the tubular fabric for realizing said garment, and / or wherein said step M) is executed autonomously by said electronic processor (2) on the basis of the characteristics of said garment sample (1) loaded in the step A), in such a way that the circular knitting machine (T) is suitable for producing a tubular fabric adapted to the realization of the garment, and / or wherein the process comprises a step N) of configuring said one or more libraries (5), displayed on said screen (3) in said step L) in such a way that each library (5) comprises only values, attributable by part of the user to the respective parameter to which the library is associated, effectively realizable with the circular knitting machine (T) selected in said step M).

10. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said step M) comprises a step, autonomously executed by said electronic processor (2), of proposing to the user a list of possible circular knitting machines (T), loaded in a memory of the electronic processor (2), having technical characteristics such as to make them suitable for producing a tubular fabric adapted to the realization of the garment loaded in the step A), and / or wherein said technical characteristics of the knitting machine (T) are one or more of the following:- diameter of the needle-holding cylinder;- number of needles of the needle-holding cylinder;- gauge or number of needles per inch of the needle-holding cylinder;- typology / configuration / number of falls or yarn feeding points;- available yarns, and / or wherein said step M) of selecting the circular knitting machine (T) is executed before the step A), in this case the electronic processor (2) proposing to the user a list of possible models of suitable garments - on the basis of properties such as typology, shape, size - to be realized with a tubular fabric producible with the circular knitting machine (T) selected in the step M).

11. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a step 0), executed autonomously by said electronic processor (2) on the basis of the characteristics of said garment sample (1) loaded in the step A) and of said circular knitting machine (T) selected in the step M), of originating and preferably displaying on said screen (3) an error signal if, in one or more of said steps E) of inserting a command, the user has attributed to one or more points of the 3D model values of said parameters not executable by the circular knitting machine (T), i.e., such as to make the tubular fabric non-producible, and / or wherein said step 0) is executed in real time, i.e. at each iteration of said step E), or at the moment of execution of said step K) of compiling the machine program.

12. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a step of displaying / rendering of one of the following textures on the 3D model:- a first texture corresponding to a realistic simulation of the actual knitted fabric as it will concretely appear in the garment, on the basis of the programming choices made, such as for example the different drawn areas and their respective shapes, the chosen yarns, the colors, the selected stitches;- a second texture in which each area / portion drawn in the step of programming is colored or identified on the basis of a technical coding that associates to each color / painting of the background a different textile meaning, such as the type of stitch or processing;- a third texture representing the state of tension or stress of the knitted fabric provided for each point of the garment on the 3D model, wherein the different levels of tension / stress of the knitted fabric, once the garment is worn, can be highlighted using scales or color coding, where different colors correspond to different tensions, or more intense and less intense gradations of a color correspond - respectively - to high tensions or reduced tensions.

13. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a step of generating a raster level and a vectorial level displayable, alternatively or simultaneously, on the 3D model, wherein:- said raster level comprises one or more image elements in raster format, defined each one as a pixel grid wherein each pixel has a fixed attribute;- said vectorial level comprises one or more image elements in vectorial format, defined each one by means of a set of mathematical and geometric rules capable of defining relations among the different parts that compose the image; wherein the image elements of the raster level and / or of the vectorial level are displayed on the 3D model so as to realistically appear on said garment; and / or wherein the process comprises a function of loading or importing, and / or of drawing or changing, by part of the user, of:- a raster image element in a determined position of said raster level, and / or- a vectorial image element in a determined position of said vectorial level;and / or wherein:- said raster image element constitutes a static image defined by a grid of pixels, and does not allow manipulations,- said vectorial image element constitutes a dynamic image comprising interest points and defined by mathematical and geometric relationships among the interest points, and allows changes such as selecting, enlarging, shrinking or moving a determined portion of the image generating new mathematical and geometric relationships among the interest points; and / or wherein said raster level and said vectorial level are displayed on the 3D model and each insertion or change of a raster image element and / or of a vectorial image element is automatically reported on said 2D model.

14. Software program, uploadable in the memory (6) of at least one electronic processor (2) and configured to execute the steps of the process (P) according to claims 1-13.

15. Device for designing textile items, comprising a data processing unit susceptible of loading and executing in memory the software program according to claim 14.

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