System for specifying custom garments

A system is disclosed for creating custom garments of clothing for a wearer by combining data on personal tailoring measurements of the wearer, physical characteristics of the wearer, a garment pattern, and garment options selected on the basis of the resulting combination of personal and pattern data. As disclosed, the system is embodied with a central location unit including a cutting table apparatus, a memory for a substantial number of patterns, and a pattern-processing system. The central unit serves a plurality of remote location equipments through a communication system which may incorporate a telephonic link. The remote equipments include an interactive graphic display terminal which cooperates with a remote location computer for the effective combination of physical data, personal selection data, and pattern data. As disclosed, an operator customizing a garment (typically the intended wearer) selects a garment pattern from storage at the central location unit with the result that display data on the pattern is recorded in the location equipment. Personal physical data is also supplied to the location equipment and the two forms of data are combined to provide data representative of the combination. The resulting combination, with certain designer limitations, is then formulated for an interactive graphic display forming the basis for optional variations, some of which may be selected by the operator. In the final analysis, the combined data (pattern, physical measurements, and individual selections) are manipulated by the system to provide: (1) data for a current graphic display, and (2) specific pattern data. Upon confirmation, the specific pattern data is processed to control a central-location cutting table apparatus to provide the components which are sewn together to accomplish the designed garment.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
Variations in the physical size and the personal taste of people has long 
plagued the clothing industry. Most generally, the solution to the problem 
has been to produce a range of sizes for garments which hopefully will 
satisfy the personal tastes of many individuals. Although the clothing 
industry has effectively accommodated to that practice, it has not been 
without substantial difficulties both to the industry and the market. 
First, many purchasers of standard-size garments are faced with the 
alternative of tolerating some compromise in the fit of the garment or 
alternatively bearing the cost of expensive alterations. Another common 
compromise involves a multitide of fabric and style variations. That is, 
purchasers frequently buy a garment simply because it is the closest thing 
available to what is truly desired. As for the clothing industry, 
anticipating and accommodating the style desires of the multitude of 
purchasers not only requires considerable study but substantial waste. A 
considerable volume of garments must be discounted for sale, because they 
are not of a style or size to attract a buyer. These considerations 
generally result in a relatively volatile industry and a substantially 
compromising market. 
In general, the present invention may be embodied to provide an interactive 
graphics display which is used to facilitate the design and pattern for a 
garment with the result that a person can effectively consider a garment 
before it is actually fabricated. The system enables professionally 
designed garments custom styled by the purchaser using a mirror image 
display. 
Structually, the system of the present invention incorporates an 
interactive graphic display terminal from which an operator (normally the 
intended wearer) provides physical data and a garment selection. A central 
storage responds to the identification of a garment by providing display 
data to the active terminal, which is related and scaled to the wearer's 
physical data to provide a display of the specific garment on the subject 
for whom it is being designed. The terminal equipment includes interactive 
graphics apparatus for developing the garment with the aid of a current 
image along with message instruction displays. A working storage actively 
carries limitations imposed on the garment by the designer, options for 
the garment, display data, and physical characteristics of the 
propspective wearer. 
When the operator has attained the garment in the desired form, definitive 
data for such garment is transmitted to the central location unit for use 
in cutting the pattern for the garment's production. Consequently, the 
operator is able to work with data that reflects a clothing designer's 
capability, the wearer's own physical measurements and personal tastes, 
for specifying the desired garment prior to manufacture.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT 
As indicated above, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the invention is 
disclosed herein. However, embodiments may be constructed in accordance 
with various forms, some of which may be rather different from the 
disclosed illustrative embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural 
and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in 
that regard they are deemed to provide the best embodiment for purposes of 
disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the 
scope of the present invention. 
Referring initially to FIG. 1, an individual terminal unit T is depicted 
with an input panel P and an image display screen I. In general, the 
operation of the system involves an operator or user working with the 
controls of the panel P aided by the images on the display screen I to 
attain the detailed specification of a garment which is then created in a 
physical form as described below. 
As depicted in FIG. 1, the terminal unit T is unitarily housed in a cabinet 
10 for convenient viewing of the screen I and manipulation of controls on 
the panel P. Considering the structure, an appreciation of the function 
performed may now best be accomplished by pursuing a description of the 
manner in which the system is employed to specify a desired garment. 
Accordingly, assume that the person operating or using the system (by 
operating the terminal of FIG. 1) is the intended wearer of the garment to 
be specified, and possesses a magnetic-stripe card carrying physical 
information both with respect to graphic display data and garment 
measurements. Recognizing that a variety of possibilities may be employed, 
it has been determined that a plastic card bearing a magnetic strip as 
well known in the art may be coded to effectively carry the desired 
information. Specifically, 104 digits are recorded on the magnetic stripe 
using an eight-digit identification number along with 32 measurements 
(three digits per measurement). An effective format for the measurements 
has been determined to be: six digits for standard tailoring measurements, 
nineteen special body measurements for a highly accurate fitting 
(optional), and seven head measurements to provide a silhouette profile 
viewable from the front, side, or rear of the subject. It is to be noted 
that the seven head measurements are not employed for the garment fitting 
or specification, but rather only for the graphics display of the person. 
After activating the terminal T by depressing an "ON" button 11, the 
plastic card (not shown) bearing magnetically recorded data as indicated 
above is entered in the cabinet 10 through a slot 12 and returned from a 
slot 14. In its travel between the slots 12 and 14, the magnetic card is 
sensed to provide both display data and garment-measurement data for the 
person. 
After the card exits from the slot 14, a message portion 16 of the screen I 
exhibits the instruction "KEY IN PATTERN NUMBER". During this time, a 
graphics portion 18 of the screen I is blank, presenting no image. 
Responding to the instruction displayed by the message portion 16, the user 
selectively depresses numerical keys 20 to identify the garment desired 
for consideration. Normally, the identification number is taken from a 
catalog of garments containing a simple representation of the garment and 
an identification number. 
As the next occurrence in the sequence, the message portion 16 of the image 
screen I displays the instruction: "KEY IN FABRIC NUMBER". In response to 
such an instruction, the user employs the keys to key in a number 
identifying a particular fabric for the graphics display. Again, the 
source of the number may be a catalog or book of fabric samples. 
With the entry of the garment and fabric numbers into the system, 
communication is established from the terminal T to a central station (not 
shown in FIG. 1) to obtain the display data for the garment along with 
options and design data. Recapitulating to some extent, the terminal now 
registers physical display data and physical garment measurement data for 
the subject, and display data as well as specification data for the 
garment being contemplated. 
The equipment at the location of the terminal T under consideration next 
processes the data as described in detail below initially to determine 
whether or not the garment under consideration is appropriate for the 
subject under consideration. That is, in certain instances, garments may 
be designed with certain limitations, for example, certain garments may 
not be considered to be satisfactory by the designer for persons 
possessing certain measurements. If such an inappropriate selection is 
made, the message portion 16 of the screen I exhibits the message "NOT 
RECOMMENDED". Alternatively, if the wearer's physical characteristics meet 
the criteria imposed by the garment designer, then a display appears on 
the graphics portion 18 of the screen I showing the selected garment in 
the selected fabric on a representation of the subject. 
It is to be noted that in the event that the operator either makes a 
mistake or decides against the garment specified, the entire operating 
sequence can be negated by depressing a cancellation button 22 bearing the 
legend "C". If desired, the operator can then begin again with a fresh 
start. 
During the operation after the initial presentation of the garment on the 
wearer, the system and the operator cooperate to resolve certain 
individual choices with respect to garment options. Recognizing that such 
choices may vary considerably, the example of a dress hemline will be 
treated as initially illustrative. Accordingly, along with the graphics 
display on the screen I, the message portion 16 will indicate the legend: 
"DRAW HEMLINE WITH POINTER". The instruction refers to the use of an 
electronic wand or marker 26 which is attached to the cabinet 10 by a 
cable 28. The instructed operation consists of using the marker 26 to draw 
a line at the desired hemline of the garment as depicted. After a brief 
delay, the graphic portion 18 of the screen I displays an image reflecting 
the garment with the selected hemline. 
In order to better appreciate the garment on the subject, the image 
depicted by the graphics portion 18 of the screen I may be revolved to 
exhibit side views as well as a rear view of the composite. Specifically, 
a knob 30 is provided in the panel P which may be turned to rotate the 
displayed figure. Accordingly, the user may clearly view the composite 
figure, perhaps even more effectively than in using mirrors to view an 
actual garment being worn. The composite image may be rotated at any time 
during the subsequent displays that occur in the course of sepcifying the 
desired garment. 
From the present stage of operation, the user of the system is provided a 
number of individual options which are afforded depending upon the design, 
the wearer's physical form, and specification criteria. For example, 
considering a pair of trousers, the user may be given the rather routine 
choice of: "CUFFS ON THE TROUSERS?" Pursuing such an example, the question 
would be exhibited on the message portion 16 of the screen I. In response 
to the query, the user would selectively push either the button 32 (yes) 
or the button 34 (no). Thereafter, additional options or choices may be 
presented for the user in specifying the garment ultimately to be 
fabricated. 
In a somewhat more refined operation of the system, the garment designer 
may provide options which are directly related to the physical 
characteristics of the person for whom the garment is being specified. For 
example, the garment might be well suited with either patch pockets or 
slash pockets for certain persons who fall within a specified range of 
physical characteristics. However, using the designer's criteria, the 
garment may be satisfactory only with slash pockets for persons outside 
the specified range. Under such circumstances, the garment may be 
exhibited in the graphics portion 18 of the screen I with slash pockets. 
Then, depending on the subject under consideration, the option may or may 
not be provided by concurrently having the message portion 16 of the 
screen I pose the question: "PATCH POCKETS?" If appropriate, according to 
the designer, the operator is afforded a choice. That choice is 
conditioned upon the garment designer imposing the limitations. As 
indicated above, the latitude may vary considerably; however, it is 
apparent that designer-quality can be imposed by restricting the 
flexibility of a specific garment depending upon the physical 
characteristics of the wearer. 
The number of individual option provided with respect to a particular 
garment may vary considerably; however, in the operation of the system 
when the options are resolved, the ultimate garment is displayed in the 
graphics portion 18 of the screen I. At that stage, the message portion 16 
carries the legend: "COMPLETE?" If the user desires to accept the design, 
the "yes" button 32 is depressed which prompts the message portion 16 to 
display an instruction "HAVE CLERK APPROVE". The user then summons an 
attendant to conclude the transaction. Essentially, the attendant will 
complete the financial transaction and actuate the system to proceed with 
the creation of the specified garment. In the latter regard, the attendant 
simply turns a key (not shown) in a key hole 36 which instructs the system 
to proceed. As will be described in greater detail below, such action 
results in a pattern being cut of fabric for the garment which then may be 
sewn together using conventional techniques to provide a custom-specified 
garment. 
In view of the above preliminary consideration, it may be seen that the 
system of the present invention enables the custom specification of 
garments thereby reducing the speculative aspect of traditional garment 
industry producton. That aspect along with inventory considerations result 
in economies which bode well in an economic consideration of the present 
system in providing custom garments. 
In view of the above somewhat-functional description of the system of the 
present invention, an appreciation of the system components may now be 
accomplished by considering such components as depicted in FIG. 2 
illustrating the total system. The terminal unit T of FIG. 1 is depicted 
as one of several such terminal units T one of which is illustrated in the 
form of separate well known components including an interactive graphic 
display unit 40, a keyboard 42, and a magnetic card reader 44. 
The terminal units T (which may vary in number) share a location computer 
46 which constitutes essentially the remainder of the location equipment. 
The location computer 46 as disclosed in detail below serves the 
individual terminal units T to perform the data manipulations involved in 
developing the specifically desired garment. A multiplicity of structures 
for time sharing the location computer 46 among the terminals T are well 
known in the prior art, and in that regard a select one of various 
multiplexing schemes and structures is incorporated in the location 
computer 46. 
The location equipment (comprising a number of terminals T) would normally 
be the installation at a single retail facility. In that manner, a number 
of prospective purchasers could be working individually at separate 
terminals served by a single location computer. A plurality of location 
equipments, E.sub.1, E.sub.2, and so on are illustrated in FIG. 2, each 
connected to a communication system 48. Again, a variety of time sharing 
structures or multiplexers are well known in the prior art. In that regard 
the communication system 48 incorporates a well known structure for 
sequencing or otherwise treating data from the location equipments 
E.sub.1, E.sub.2, and so on for communication with apparatus comprising 
the central location unit U. Specifically, the communication system 48 may 
include a telephone link, along with modems to provide communication 
between the individual location equipments E and a central location unit 
U. Specifically, the communication system 48 communicates with a logic and 
memory unit 50 which in turn communicatively controls a cutting table 
apparatus 52. 
The unit 50 may take various forms of pattern scaling and designing systems 
specifically including structures as available from Camsco, Inc. of 
Richardson, Texas, or California Computer Products, Inc. of Anaheim, 
California. Certain aspects which may be incorporated in the unit 50 are 
described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,391,392 entitled "Method and Apparatus for 
Pattern Data Processing". 
The unit 50 accomplishes a variety of functions. A sizable storage 
capability in the unit 50 registers garment display data and garment 
specification data for a substantial number of individual garments. The 
garment specification data includes not only basic patterns but data with 
respect to options as applicable in a limited manner to individual 
measurements as described in detail below. Furthermore, the unit 50 
includes the capability to grade a specified garment in order to generate 
and provide pattern data for specific personal measurements as developed 
during the operation of the system, complete with various options. 
Upon developing the final pattern data, the unit 50 sequences the data for 
driving the cutting table apparatus which responds to cut the detailed 
pattern for the desired garment. In that regard, the cutting table 
apparatus 52 may take the form of an automated water jet cutting system 
available from Camsco, Inc., Richardson, Texas, aspects of which are 
described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,978,748. The system as well known in the 
prior art can be configured with a variety of material feeding systems 
whereby a select fabric or material is supplied to the cutting table for 
cutting by a moving water jet. 
Considering the general flow of data signals in the system of FIG. 2, the 
communication system 48 is active during two occasions in dealing with the 
most-compact complete transaction. Specifically, if the communication 
system 48 incorporates a telephonic link, the line is seized initially to 
receive basic garment data at the location computer 46. If the garment so 
identified culminates in a completed transaction, the line is again seized 
to provide the detailed specifications of the garment from the computer 46 
to the unit 50. Of course, it should be recognized that a customer may 
consider and work with more than one garment before a finalized garment is 
specified to be actually produced. Abortive design efforts simply involve 
purging the data indicative of a rejected garment. 
Considering the flow of information in somewhat greater detail, it will be 
recalled that the location computer 46 receives signals specifying a 
fabric and a garment by number from a terminal unit T. During the initial 
communication concerning the transaction, such data is transmitted by the 
communication system 48 to the unit 50 along with identification data 
indicating the location of the equipment E and the transaction number. 
In response to receiving the initial data, the unit 50 provides signals 
representative of data on limitations of the garment, garment display 
data, and garment options. Although not disclosed in detail in the 
illustrative embodiment set forth herein, the system may also provide cost 
data so as to inform the prospective customer of pricing variations as 
well as the final price for a garment. With such data from the unit 50, 
the location computer drives the display unit 40 during the sequence of 
selections as described above to result in a precisely specified garment 
reflecting the designer criteria, the wearer's physical characteristics, 
and the individual tastes of the prospective purchaser. The structure for 
such operation is described below. 
Upon completion of the specifications for a garment, there is another 
seizure of the telephone line (assuming the communication system 48 
incorporates a telephonic link) during which signals representing the 
custom specifications for the garment (including selected optional 
features, fabric, and pattern identification) are communicated through the 
communication system 48 to the unit 50. Again, although not disclosed in 
the preferred embodiment, cost confirmation data may be provided from the 
unit 50 to the location computer 46 along with the anticipated delivery 
date. 
It is to be noted that in the system of the illustrative embodiment, the 
basic pattern data for a garment is not transmitted from the unit 50 to 
the terminals T. Rather, the unit 50 withholds such basic pattern data 
which is graded, scaled, and customized with optional features after the 
garment is specified, to provide drive signals for the cutting table 
apparatus 52. The completion of the garment is effected by sewing together 
the various pattern components into a finished article of clothing. 
Normally, the operation will be performed under the direct manual control 
of a sewing machine. 
Considering the location equipment in somewhat greater detail, reference 
will now be made to FIG. 3 showing a plurality of terminal units T along 
with a control console 60 which has greater control flexibility along with 
the capability for certain ancillary modifications of the operating 
format. The terminals T along with the control console 60 are connected 
through a terminal interface 62 to a sequence control unit 64. Timing 
operations as well as data signal transfers are accomplished through the 
sequence control unit 64 which is connected to an address unit 66, an 
associated disc storage 68, and a pattern development logic unit 70 which 
incorporates a number of several different operating capabilities. 
Somewhat functionally considered, the logic unit 70 incorporates structure 
71 for checking measurements of a subject against imposed limitations for 
the specific garment under consideration. Also, the unit 70 incorporates a 
picture system control and processor 73 which utilizes well known 
techniques from the field of interactive computer graphics. Still further, 
the unit 70 includes variation option controls 75 which drive the display 
apparatus to provide design queries answerable either by a "yes" or a "no" 
indication which serve to finalize the design specification of the 
garment. 
In the course of sequencing the option of the location equipment as 
depicted in FIG. 3, the sequence control unit 64 provides a number of 
timing signals t.sub.1 through t.sub.n. The timing signals function to 
control gates and latches to maintain organization and logic for the 
operating sequence of processing data. 
In general, the system as depicted in FIG. 3 broadly shows the elements of 
the location equipment. In that regard, the equipment may be variously 
configured as in a special purpose format to afford the capability of the 
individual blocks represented in FIG. 3. Essentially, assuming the 
operation of specifying a particular garment under control of an operator 
at one of the terminals T, after an initial interchange (through a 
communication channel 72) the disc storage 68 contains data signals 
representative of several items of information. Specifically, the storage 
68 contains information on limitations for the garment, display data for 
the garment, options for variations on the garment, the clothing 
measurements of the subject, and the personal display data for the 
subject. 
As the sequence of operation progresses through the individual stages 
manifest by the timing signals t.sub.1 -t.sub.n under control of the unit 
64, logic operations are performed by the unit 70 which in due course 
develop the data to specify the desired garment in the disc storage 68. 
Specifically, the developed data includes: the garment and fabric 
identification, the transaction identification, the selected features for 
the garment, and the clothing measurements of the subject. The development 
of that data indicates the conclusion of a cycle of operations after which 
such data is transmitted through the line 72 to the logic and memory unit 
50 (FIG. 2) for processing and development of signals to direct the 
cutting table apparatus 52 to provide fabric properly cut and sectioned 
for the garment. 
It is to be noted that in addition to creating custom garments, the system 
of the present invention can be employed to provide clothing patterns of 
paper or the like, which are subsequently employed to manually produce the 
fabric for the desired garment. In one such situation, a consumer may 
desire a pattern from which a plurality of similar garments will be 
produced, as with different fabrics. 
Recognizing the complexity of the system of FIG. 3, and the vast volume of 
material required for an ultimately detailed description, the illustrative 
embodiment is treated with reference to operating registers and flow 
paths, as disclosed in FIG. 4. Such a disclosure will enable a person of 
ordinary skill in the art to implement the system using a variety of 
available computer-related techniques. Specifically in that regard, the 
system described with reference to FIG. 4 will afford sufficient 
information to enable the person of ordinary skill in the art to implement 
the system using the elements as indicated in FIG. 3, i.e. disc storage, 
sequence control, and so on. 
Referring now to FIG. 4, the operation is controlled in accordance with the 
following chart of binary signals, the occurrence of the "t" signals being 
in accordance with their associated number. 
__________________________________________________________________________ 
Display 
Signal 
Operation (Message & Graphics) 
__________________________________________________________________________ 
t.sub.1 
Machine in standby state 
"INSERT CARD" 
t.sub.2 
Register card data in storage 
and ID for transaction 
blank- 
t.sub.3 
Machine waiting garment data 
"KEY IN GARMENT 
Number" 
t.sub.4 
Register garment number in 
storage 
blank- 
t.sub.5 
Machine waiting fabric data 
"KEY IN FABRIC 
NUMBER" 
t.sub.6 
Register fabric number in 
storage 
blank- 
t.sub.7 
Interchange with central 
blank- 
t.sub.8 
Check pattern fabric and 
measurements for approval 
blank- 
t.sub.9 
Indicate garment unsuited 
"GARMENT NOT 
to measurements or fabric 
RECOMMENDED" 
t.sub.10 
Process display data 
blank- 
t.sub.11 
Display basic composite 
DISPLAY- 
and hemline question 
"DRAW HEMLINE" 
t.sub.12 
Process display data 
blank- 
t.sub.13 
Display basic composite with 
DISPLAY- 
adjusted hemline "PATCH POCKETS?" 
t.sub.14 
Process display data 
blank- 
t.sub.15 
Display basic composite as 
developed with other options 
DISPLAY- 
t.sub.x 
Machine waiting spec. approval 
DISPLAY- 
"COMPLETE?" 
t.sub.y 
Establishment approval pending 
DISPLAY- 
"FETCH CLERK TO 
APPROVE" 
t.sub.n 
Transfer data "THANK YOU" 
G Turns system ON 
blank- 
F Turns system OFF 
blank- 
C Clears prior terminal activity 
blank- 
Y Yes 
N No 
__________________________________________________________________________ 
Referring now to FIG. 4, the display terminal unit is symbolically 
represented by a block T at the upper right. The block T is segmented to 
indicate the graphic display portion 102, the message display portion 104, 
and the input portion 106. 
The central location unit U is also illustrated in FIG. 4 (upper left) as a 
single block to represent the considerable equipment at the central 
location. 
The balance of the structure represented in FIG. 4 is embodied in the 
location computer 46 (FIGS. 2 and 4) as depicted in FIG. 2. In that 
regard, the structure of FIG. 4 sets forth an operational system with a 
view toward attaining a detailed disclosure adequate for enabling a person 
or ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention; however, without 
the ancillary complications and details which may be embodied in 
commercial forms of equipment utilizing addressable storage and multiple 
equipments. 
The operation of the system of FIG. 4 is sequenced under control of a 
sequence control unit 110 (lower left) which is connected to every block 
depicted in FIG. 4 (connections omitted for simplicity). The unit 110 
provides the binary timing signals t.sub.1 -t.sub.n which are connected to 
various of the blocks indicated in FIG. 4 and additionally serve to gate 
information transfers between the blocks illustrated in FIG. 4. The 
structure and use of composite gate apparatus for controlling the transfer 
of signal-represented data is well known in the prior art. Consequently, 
in the interests of providing a simplified presentation, gating structures 
have not been shown in detail; rather, as full equivalents, the timing for 
transfers is indicated by signals labeling transfer lines where 
appropriate. 
In view of the above preliminary description of the system of FIG. 4, an 
understanding thereof may now best be presented by assuming an initial 
state of events and explaining occurrences as the operation proceeds. 
Accordingly, assume initially that the system is energized awaiting use by 
an operator to individually develop a garment. Further assume that the 
operator is the intended wearer and has consulted garment and fabric 
catalogs and both a tentative garment and fabric have been selected. The 
operator then approaches the terminal unit T as depicted in FIG. 1 
depressing the button 11 to place the terminal in an "on" state. As an 
initial action, the operator would next depress the "clear" button 22 
thereby conditioning the system for a fresh cycle of operations. That 
action clears all registers illustrated in FIG. 4 preparatory to a fresh 
interval of operation. 
With the machine in an initialized state, the sequence control unit 110 
(FIG. 4, lower left) provides the signal t.sub.1 high, indicating that the 
machine is ready for a cycle of operation. As indicated in FIG. 4, the 
timing signals are applied to a message display apparatus 112 (top 
central) which selectively provides signals to the message display portion 
104 of the terminal to command select messages to be displayed. When the 
system is in the "ready" state (signal t.sub.1 high) the message display 
apparatus 112 actuates the message display portion 104 with the 
instruction: "INSERT CARD". With respect to the apparatus 112, various 
forms of structures may be employed, an illustrative form of which may 
comprise a storage facility for signals to command predetermined 
alphanumeric displays each of which is uniquely selected to provide such 
signals by a select one of the timing signals t. 
Acting on the exhibited instruction, the operator inserts a card as 
described above in the slot 12 through which the card is transported and 
the magnetic stripe thereon sensed to provide the represented data in the 
form of electrical signals. Various forms of card reading equipment are 
available; however, one form of such apparatus is available from Mag-Tek, 
Inc. of Carson, California. 
The signals from the card are sensed by the portion 106 (FIG. 4) of the 
terminal T and provided through a cable 114 to be registered in sections 
of storage. Specifically, the signal-represented information includes: 
personal measurement data, personal identification, and personal display 
data as explained above. 
During the time indicated by the timimg signal t.sub.2 (the existence of 
the signal being identified as the time when that binary signal is in a 
high state) personal measurement data is transferred into a section 116 of 
a data storage D.sub.1 as well as a section 118 of a data storage D.sub.2. 
Also during the timing signal t.sub.2, the personal identification from 
the card is also stored in the section 118. Additional information from 
the card in the form of the personal display data is registered in the 
section 119 of the data storage D.sub.1. 
Somewhat preliminarily, it will be understood that the data storage D.sub.1 
is operational storage for data that is used in the course of specifying 
the desired garment. Distinctively, the storage D.sub.2 is for the data 
that is developed to be transmitted to the control location unit U for the 
fabrication of the desired garment. 
At the conclusion of the timing interval t.sub.2, the system enters a phase 
designated by the timing signal t.sub.3 during which the message display 
portion 104 of the terminal T exhibits: "KEY IN GARMENT NUMBER". The 
signals for that message display are provided from the apparatus 112 to 
the terminal T which instructs the user to provide the garment number 
using the keys 20 (FIG. 1). 
The garment number is passed through a line 120 from the terminal T to be 
registered in a signal-represented form during the interval of signal 
t.sub.4 in a section 122 of the storage D.sub.2. The completion of the 
operation prompts the sequence control unit 110 to advance to the state of 
the signal t.sub.5 which actuates the message display apparatus 112 to 
cause the message display portion of the terminal to exhibit: "KEY IN 
FABRIC NUMBER". Responding to the instruction, the operator again uses the 
keys 20, in this instance to provide the fabric number. Representative 
signals are formed by the input apparatus in portion 106 and are passed 
through a line 124 during the interval t.sub.6 to be registered in section 
126 of the storage D.sub.2. 
With the registration of the fabric number in section 126 of the storage 
D.sub.2, the sequence control unit 110 proceeds to the interval of the 
timing signal t.sub.7 (note the above chart) during which the terminal 
apparatus is placed in communication with the central location unit U. As 
indicated above, such communication may involve a telephone link or other 
long distance facility and in that regard, breaks are indicated, as in the 
line 128 which carries signals representative of the garment number and 
the fabric number to the central location unit 108. 
During the same time interval (period of binary signal t.sub.7) the unit U 
provides the working data to the data storage D.sub.1, for the selected 
garment from a stored catalog of such information. Specifically, during 
the interval of the signal t.sub.7, the unit U provides return signals 
through a line 130 to register data in the data storage D.sub.1. 
Specifically, signals representative of design limitations for the garment 
are stored in a section 132, signals representative of the garment display 
data are provided in a section 134, and signals indicative of garment 
options are placed in a section 136. Consequently, the data storage 
D.sub.1 is loaded and the system is prepared to move forward in the 
operation of developing a specification for a desired garment. 
Consequently, the sequence control unit, in accordance with the above 
chart, advances to provide the timing signal t.sub.8 defining an interval 
when the measurements of the subject are tested against limitations 
imposed by the garment designer. 
The initial approval of the garment for the measurements of concern is 
accomplished by a garment-limitation logic unit 138 during the interval of 
the signal t.sub.8. The unit 138 receives the personal measurement data 
from the storage section 136 along with garment limitation data from the 
storage section 132. In one form, the logic unit 138 may simply comprise 
apparatus for performing a number of digital magnitude comparisons between 
designer-imposed limits and the actual measurements of the subject. For 
example, it may be that a garment is designed with the objective of giving 
the wearer an appearance of being heavier than actually is the fact. 
Essentially, the garment would be worn by a thin person to give the 
appearance of greater bulk. Consequently, the designer may impose maximum 
waist-height proportions for persons who should wear the selected garment. 
In such an example, the waist-height ratio limitation from storage section 
132 is compared with the actual waist-height ratio of the subject 
(received from the storage section 116). Should the actual waist-height 
ratio exceed the designer-limited waist-height ratio, a rejection signal 
is provided in the line 140 which prompts the sequence control unit 110 to 
indicate the timing signal t.sub.9 manifesting that the garment is not 
satisfactory. Specifically, the timing signal t.sub.9 applied to the 
message display apparatus 112 results in a display of: "GARMENT NOT 
RECOMMENDED" (see the above chart). A clearing operation would normally 
follow. 
As an alternative to the above assumption, if the waist measurement (along 
with all other measurements compared) falls within the proper range for 
the proposed wearer, then a high signal appears in the line 142 which 
advances the sequence control unit 110 to provide the signal t.sub.10 in a 
high state. 
It is to be noted that the limitations and limitation comparisons for an 
individual garment may vary widely depending upon the objective of the 
garment designer. Consequently, it may be desirable to provide a format of 
several possible comparisons the failure of any of which will result in a 
rejection signal in the line 140; while the approval of all will result in 
an approval signal in the line 142. Various apparatus for the unit 138 may 
thus be used as well known in the prior art to perform the comparisons. 
As indicated above, if the operator is advised that the selected garment is 
not satisfactory, the routine operation will be to clear the machine 
(press the clear button 22, FIG. 1) and initiate another cycle of 
operations with the selection of a different garment. However, if the 
garment is approved for the subject, the system functions to compute a 
graphic display during the interval of the timing signal t.sub.10. 
Specifically, a graphic display processor 144 (FIG. 4 central) combines 
the garment display data from the storage section 134 with the personal 
display data from the storage section 119 during the period of signal 
t.sub.10 develops graphic-display signals for a presentation of the 
specified person wearing the specific garment. 
Various forms of apparatus capable of functioning as the graphic display 
processor 144 are well known, one form being available from United 
Computing Corporation, Carson, California. Upon computation of the display 
signals, they are held in a buffer register (not shown) of the processor 
144. The sequence control unit then proceeds to the operating phase of the 
signal t.sub.11 during which the display signals are repeatedly supplied 
through a line 146 to the graphic display portion 102 of the terminal T. 
Note that during the entire interval of t.sub.11, the display is 
maintained by rejuvenating transmission of the display signals through the 
line 146. During such a DISPLAY stage (or any subsequent DISPLAY stage as 
indicated in the above chart) the knob 30 (FIG. 1) may be turned to cause 
the image to revolve thereby affording the operator a view of the subject 
wearing the garment in a mirror-image presentation. That is, the image can 
be turned to reveal side and back views. 
During the initial display, the message portion of the terminal T is also 
active. Specifically, the message: "DRAW HEMLINE" is exhibited. This 
message instructs the user to employ the wand or marker 26 (FIG. 1) to 
indicate hemlines on the garment. Specifically, for example, in the case 
of a dress, a line designating the desired hemline is simply drawn on the 
screen I. Alternatives include cuff length, sleeve length, and so on. 
With the completion of the hemline information, the system enters the next 
phase defined by the timing signal t.sub.12 from the sequence control unit 
110. During that interval, the processor 144 processes the hemline data 
into the existing display and provides a fresh set of data in the output 
buffer register advancing the sequence to the interval of the timing 
signal t.sub.13. During such time interval, the composite image is again 
presented on the graphic display portion 102 of the terminal T, now with 
the hemline information incorporated. 
During the interval of the timing signal t.sub.13, in addition to the 
composite graphic display, the message display is also active indicating 
the first of what may comprise several individual garment options. In 
accordance with the above sequence chart, assume that the option is to 
modify the garment from its presently pictured form to a form in which it 
has patch pockets. Thereupon, during the interval of timing signal 
t.sub.13, in addition to the graphic display in portion 102 of the 
terminal T, a message display is provided in portion 102 stating: "PATCH 
POCKETS?". 
The logic networks implementing approval or disapproval of the individual 
options is embodied in a logic unit 150 (FIG. 4 central) which receives 
the garment option data from the storage section 136 and the personal 
measurement data from the storage section 116. In general, options in the 
specification of the formal garment are provided depending upon the 
personal measurements of the subject involved. To consider the 
illustrative example, persons of measurements in a certain range perhaps 
should not wear the garment with patch pockets. Of course, these are 
designer considerations and will be provided in the data registered in 
section 136 of the storage D.sub.1. The comparison information is provided 
by the personal measurements data from the section 116 of the storage 
section D.sub.1, both such data signals being supplied to the option 
limitation logic unit 150 for processing. If an option passes the designer 
imposed tests, it is offered to the operator as described above with 
respect to the option "PATCH POCKETS?". If the limitations indicate that 
the option is inappropriate, it is simply not offered and the system moves 
on to the next option for consideration during the following timing cycle. 
The provision of an option invites either a "yes" or a "no" to be indicated 
by the buttons 32 and 34 (FIG. 1) which result in a signal Y or N applied 
to the unit 150 either accepting or rejecting the option. If the option is 
accepted, that fact is indicated to the graphic display processor through 
a line 152 and additionally is registered through a line 154 in a section 
156 of the data storage D.sub.2. After such an event, the next phase of 
operation is entered (indicated by the signal t.sub.14 in accordance with 
the above chart) during which the processor modifies the composite display 
data. Thereafter, the updated composite display is again made as 
previously described; however, in the present instance with the 
modification of the offered option. Of course, depending upon the number 
of options available, the system may repeat the above cycle several times. 
Upon the conclusion of the last offered option, the sequence control unit 
passes to a timing signal t.sub.x which initiates the concluding phases of 
specifying the custom garment. 
Considering the concluding phases in detail, during the interval indicated 
by the timing signal t.sub.x, the ultimate composite image is displayed of 
the subject clad in the specified garment. Of course, that display is in 
the graphic display portion 102 of the terminal T. Concurrently, the 
message portion carries the legend "COMPLETE?". If such is the case, the 
operator depresses the "yes" button 32 (FIG. 1) which advances the 
sequence control unit to the timing signal t.sub.y during which the 
graphic display does not change; however, the legend is modified to state: 
"FETCH CLERK TO APPROVE". Acting upon such an instruction, the operator 
summons a clerk who makes the final arrangements of the transaction, mode 
of payment, and so on, then finalizes the specification of the designed 
garment by placing a key in the keyway 36 (FIG. 1) and actuating an 
approval circuit 160 (FIG. 4 lower right). 
Prior to transferring the contents of the data storage D.sub.2 to the 
central location unit, the approval circuit 160 actuates a transaction 
number generator 162 which simply generates coded numbers in sequence and 
registers the current number through the line 164 in section 166 of the 
data storage D.sub.2. Thereafter, the approval circuit 160 gates the 
entire contents of the data storage D.sub.2 through a line 168 to the 
central location 108. Specifically, the central location receives data 
indicating: the garment number, the fabric number, personal measurements 
of the subject and his identification, the identification of the 
transaction (which may be coded to the store), and selected option 
features of the garment. With such information, the logic and memory unit 
50 (FIG. 2) develops signals for indicating individual fabric pieces or 
pattern components which are then specified to the cutting table apparatus 
50 and accordingly the desired garment is cut. As indicated above, the cut 
pattern pieces are then sewn or otherwise joined to provide the specified 
garment which is in due course delivered to the customer. 
In view of the above description, it may be seen that the system may be 
effectively used to specify and create custom garments for individuals 
which reflect not only designer capability but individual physical 
characteristics and personal preferences of the wearer. Of course, the 
system may be variously implemented and variously used depending upon 
designer criteria, garments, communication systems employed, and marketing 
techniques. Accordingly, the scope hereof shall not be referenced to the 
disclosed embodiment but on the contrary, shall be determined in 
accordance with the claims as set forth below.