Study of optimum parameters for Chinese female underwire bra size system by 3D virtual anthropometric measurement

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the optimum parameters for Chinese female underwire bra size system. Raw data was collected for 275 subjects using a 3D scanner, and 108 measurement values were extracted by reverse engineering software Polyworks. Analysis of data was conducted by integrating the entropy weight method and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) methods. It was determined that the value of breast breadth (straight distance from inner most point to outer most point on the breast) should be added to the pivotal parameters and compared to previous research to classify the breast shape and to create a totally new size system for the underwire bra. This information can provide the value width for the pattern maker and help in choosing the right sized & shaped wire for the underwire bra. When compared to former research, more breast shapes were defined than when only the depth width ratio and under-bust girth were used as parameters.