Evaluation of the Accuracy of Anthropometric Data from an Entry-Level 3D Handheld Scanner for Apparel Applications

Abstract

There has been a growing interest in entry-level 3D handheld scanners, since they require little space, are affordably priced for individual purchase, and their level of precision is improving. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the accuracy of anthropometric data from scans of both mannequins and human subjects acquired with Occipital’s Structure Sensor scanner as a representation of an entry-level handheld scanner. The dimensional accuracy of the scanner was analyzed using mannequin scans by comparing the difference between the scan-derived measurements and the direct measurements with ISO 20685 criteria. The handheld scanner reduced the length of the legs in scanning, but most of the scanning operations between the neck and crotch levels were conducted accurately. This study then assessed whether the entry-level handheld scanner is suitable for capturing a real human body affected by movements and breathing. The errors found were considered acceptable for the use of garment patternmaking. This study also provided suggestions to reduce errors during scanning and to obtain more accurate human body scans using the Structure Sensor scanner. Based on the results, entry-level 3 D scanners are expected to be used as a tool to map human body shapes in the field of clothing and textiles.