Precision of 3D body scanners

Precise measurements are the key for making digitally tailored garments. Therefore, it is necessary to have the measurements defined by the measurement profile which would relate to apparel basic block construction. A block is a foundation pattern constructed to fit a particular human. A block should be drafted to fit an individual figure using personal measurements [1]. The block algotytm is defined as script to the CAD system (Gemini) or exisiting pattern is altered by CAD systems (Optitec, Lectra, Gerber, etc.) to fit a specific figure using individual dimensions. The data recorded by body scanner can be very accurate dependent on the equipment (infrared, white-light, depth sensor) and the amount of sensors (lasers/sensors/lights) used. The accuracy of dimensions obtained depends on the measurement extraction profile and how exactly the scanner recognises the body surface. At the moment, there may happen that two different versions of body scanners from the same firm can produce results with 1-4 cm difference in circumference measurements. After considering over 11 000 body scans, I have come to the discovery, that the scanners do not detect proficiently crotch area (the area of the human body where the limbs join the torso. It is often considered including the groin and genitals) and measurement extraction profiles do not let to map crotch point as it is built in the individuals block. We have to have a standardized “human” prototype as a tool compare results produced by different scanners in order to secure the accuracy of the scanner data and measurement extraction profiles.