Three-Dimensional Body Scanning Technology: Comparison of Four Different Acquisition Systems for Apparel Product Development

This research presents the results of a study comparing the hardware and software of four commercially available brands of three-dimensional (3D) body scanners. Fifty-five men and women over age 18 had baseline anthropometric measurements taken by flexible tape measure, air displacement plethysmography (ADP), and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Participants then were received a full body scan in each of the four comparative scanner systems. Data were evaluated through linear regression and Bland-Altman analyses for each 3D optical system, qualitative data regarding participant ease of use and comfort with each scanning system are presented. Results indicate design of hardware and software influence comfort during scanning process, accuracy of data collected, and its usefulness for apparel development