Body scanning of dynamic posture

Purpose - Aims to check the validity of measurements of dynamic postures recorded by a body scanner. Design/methodology/approach - Measurements between various anatomical landmarks have been taken both manually and using a 3D body scanner so that the validity of the measurements might be assessed when dynamic postures are adopted. Mechanical measurements of changes in the body surface dimensions have been compared with figures produced by a body scanner for both the standard natural position and for five dynamic postures, which must be accommodated when designing high-performance garments. Findings - Although the 3D body scanner collects data almost instantaneously and without physical contact with the target surface, the readings taken in respect of dynamic poses showed significant variations from manually-taken measurements, with discrepancies as large as 6.8 cm over a 16 cm distance. Research limitations/implications - The research has only been carried out on a very limited number of subjects. However, significant differences between manual and automatic body measurements are clearly demonstrated. Practical implications - The research showed that as there are as yet no universally-accepted conventions for 3D scanner measurements, the results appear to be optimised for the natural anatomical position. Body-scanners are not well-suited to taking measurements of dynamic postures expected in sporting activities. Originality/value - Measurements of anthropometric landmarks for high-performance activities have not previously been assessed, and these results usefully indicate the limitations of current 3D scanning technology. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.