Finite element modelling of Chinese male office workers’ necks using 3D body measurements

Abstract

Recognizing the influence of occupational habits on human morphology, there has been a discernible increase in research taking anthropometric body measurements of a target population for the purpose of customized product development and production to meet different customer needs. This study aims to develop a 3D neck model for the Chinese young male office workers with a goal to provide a tool to maximize the ergonomic fit and comfort of the collar part of apparel products. A total of 200 male Chinese office workers meeting the sampling criteria were recruited for this study. Using factor analysis, the raw 3D measurements were reduced to a six-factor seven-measure model, capturing majority of the neck structure information. Based on these 7 neck measurements, the 200 subjects were classified through K means cluster analysis into 4 clusters. The cluster with largest number of subjects was chosen for the 3D neck model development. This 3D model includes three layers: the skin layer, the soft tissue layer and the skeleton layer. Comparing to 2D neck models, this three-layer 3D neck model provides a better and closer imitation of real human necks, permitting simulation and investigation of the pressure-deformation process that a neck experiences during wearing.