Project “Master Mind” – Digital Footwear Development at the Cutting Edge

The goal of the “Master Mind” industry project, conducted in collaboration with Zünd and its partners Rebstock Consulting and Mind Technology, was to run through the complete digital product development process for footwear—from the first 3D idea to the physically produced prototype. At the same time, the project aimed to evaluate the practicality of the software modules and the integrated workflow.

For the 16 students involved, the project marked an introduction to a completely new topic. They are well‑versed in fabrics and technical textiles, but footwear and shoe design were uncharted territory.

Over the course of a semester, students worked in pairs on various footwear showcases. Under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Matthias Kimmerle and Dr. Jyoti Kapur, and with strong support from Rebstock and Mind, they followed the complete digital development workflow—from the last to the prototype.
The results included both digital and physical prototypes for hiking, running, and climbing shoes as well as sneaker boots and sandals.

In parallel to the technical development, the students also created marketing and communication concepts. One group developed a modular trade show concept, while another focused on social media, corporate identity, and video content to enhance digital visibility.

At the heart of the project was a fully integrated digital workflow guiding students from the first 3D idea to cutting on a Zünd cutter. The process began with digital lasts from the MindCAD library, which students adapted to size, proportions, and specific fit requirements.

Using MindCAD, they created design lines and constructions that later served as the basis for the pattern pieces. Adjustments — such as combining components, optimizing symmetry, or adding seam and hem allowances — were made directly in MindCAD 2D and were automatically synchronized with the 3D model.

Final cutting data was prepared in MindCUT. The software controls Zünd cutters and allowed students to clearly understand how a virtual development process translates into real material cutting. On the Zünd cutter, a wide variety of materials — including leather, textile uppers, and technical composite materials — were processed efficiently, consistently, and with high quality.

Direct practical relevance was a key success factor. According to the project team:
“The students were able to learn the complete digital workflow—and ultimately make it visible in the form of real prototypes.”

Challenges such as asymmetric lasts or complex pattern pieces were solved with the support of Rebstock and Mind Technology. In the end, students concluded that the core functions of the integrated system can be learned quickly and that the workflow is equally suitable for education and industry.

The industry project at Albstadt‑Sigmaringen University demonstrates how closely digital footwear development is intertwined with state‑of‑the‑art cutting technology. Zünd once again positions itself as a preferred technology partner for universities, training centers, and companies investing in digital skills and the next generation of talent.