Computer Aided Design in Shoe Industry

Computer Aided Design was introduced in the shoe industry in 1970's. Initially it was used primarily for pattern grading. It enabled manufacturers to perform complex grading relatively easily and quickly. CAD systems today have been developed with a much wider range of functions. CAD data can now be used effectively for a wide variety of activities across footwear manufacturing business.CAD/CAM generates data at the design stage which can be used right through the planning and manufacturing stages.

Latest Improvements

• Graphic capabilities and interconnectivity have improved enormously.
• Software developments have progressively made systems more intuitive and easier to use.
• With 2D sketch and paint modules, a serviceable sketch can be produced and then color and texture can be added.
• 3D systems enable the last and design to be viewed from any perspective and several angles even simultaneously.
• Complex shapes can be generated, both speedily and accurately, from the 3D computer representation of the appropriate last.

Lasts can now be produced on a selection of numerically controlled lathes and milling machines using data output from footwear manufacturers' CAD systems. Last shapes can be modified and new lasts created inthe CAD systems and the machining contraolled with their data. Variations in toe shape, heel curve and toe spring are easily achievable. Combining parts of different lasts also takes a few minutes with CAD technology. It is possible to develop shoe design and tooling before the last phisically exists because they are all derived from the same source data in the CAD system.

Easy modification of last shapes through CAD has enabled the development of software and procedures for orthopedic and customized footwear. Modules for materials and labour costing, lay planning and style specification sheets can be used early in the development of shoe styles.

PC-based SATRA systems
SATRA Summ
SATRA Summ is a standard system for measuring shoe patterns and uppermaterials to produce cutting allowances and costings by computer. It is fast and accurate and allows users to monitor and control material utilizations in the cutting department.

SATRA Data
SATRA Data is a rapid and accurate computer based system for calculating realistic and achievable time values for all shoe making operations.

SHAPE Match
SHAPE Match has a computer data-base record of all existing press knife shapes in a company.

Tooling up procedures have been enhanced by CAD/CAM technology especially speed and accuracy wise.CAD data can now be used by the tool makers for the production of knives, punching dies, stitchmarker toolina, auto-stitcher pallets and heel & sole moulds. Owing to the modern telecommunications development of shoe styles, tool making and the setting up of a manufacturing unit even at remote sites is possible today, relatively fast and straightforwardly.