Learning Goal: Use AI tools to generate tech packs, BOMs, and measurement charts from 3D models or sketches.

Complete Lesson Content:

Several startups and platforms now offer AI‑powered tech pack creation. You can upload a 3D model or a sketch, and the AI extracts measurements, identifies components, and populates a BOM. Some integrate with PLM systems. Even with basic tools, you can use ChatGPT to generate a BOM from a text description, or AI vectorisation to turn a sketch into a technical flat. This lesson walks through building a semi‑automated tech pack for a style.

Step‑by‑step Explanation:

  1. Design a garment in 3D or as a sketch.
  2. Use an AI image‑to‑flat tool (or manual trace) to get clean line drawings.
  3. In CLO, place POM markers and export a measurement table.
  4. Feed a description to ChatGPT: “Generate a BOM for a women’s lined blazer with…” and refine the output.
  5. Compile into a tech pack template, adding human‑verified callouts.
  6. Review for accuracy.

Best Practices: Always verify AI‑generated data against your own knowledge; treat it as a first draft.
Common Mistakes: Relying on AI BOM without checking for specific trim codes or supplier names.

Real Industry Example: A brand uses an AI‑powered plugin that converts CLO 3D models directly into detailed tech packs, saving 50% of technical designer time.

Mini Case Study: A freelancer used ChatGPT to generate a BOM, but it included “invisible zipper” for a dress that needed an exposed zipper. She learned to always proofread AI output.

Practical Activity: Use ChatGPT to generate a BOM for a simple skirt; then manually verify and correct it.

Assignment: Create a complete tech pack for the dress from Lesson 3.1, using AI assistance for flat generation, measurement extraction, and BOM. Provide both AI draft and final version.

Lesson Summary: AI can automate tedious documentation, allowing you to focus on fit and innovation.

Key Takeaways:

  • AI drafts, humans finalise.
  • Measurements from 3D are fast.
  • Always proofread.