body scanning labThe newly renovated HSB room 216 is home to the new 3D body scanner. The body scanning station resembles a fitting room in a retail store and offers complete privacy during the scanning process.

The body scanner utilizes infrared depth sensors to extract and record over 600 data points on the human body. Automatic extracted measurements convert to 3-D body landmarks including lengths, surface areas, volumes and equal division circumferences at any specified spacing in all body segments. Simply stated, a scanned body image can be immediately viewed on the computer screen in a 3D form that is made up of over 1.5 million small points. The 3D form can be rotated and viewed in all directions and specific measurements can be isolated and highlighted for further use. In addition, the image can be converted into an avatar that can help designers visualize 3D body shapes and in turn may inform accurate apparel design solutions.

Body scanning has revolutionized body measurement processes because of the high level of accuracy in a matter of a few minutes in a private non-invasive and safe environment. Body scanners have been used for custom clothing development, size prediction, 3D printing, measurement tracking, and fitness and medical applications. The body scanner is a useful tool for both faculty and students to help solve apparel design problems that may be related to size, mobility or activity.