Source: Pakistan Textile Journal


1. Introduction


In earlier days most of the 3-D scanning techniques are usedas industrial applications such as automotive and mechanical. These techniquesare highly accurate for static objects but not suitable for capturing human subjectsbecause of body movements and underwear reflectance. Now a days textile centresand research centres are focused on 3D Body scanning system for an apparelindustry by scanning the human bodies. Which is the combination of body scannerand measurement extraction software. The emerging applications of thesetechnology includes apparel sales, sizing survey, fit evaluation etc., andother applications like medical, virtual reality, ergonomics etc.


2. Body Scanning Technology


Body scanning is a core technology developed globally for apparelmass customization and other apparel applications for more than decade. Thesystem dedicated to body scanning has taken advantage of differentdepth-sensing techniques. The structure including


  • Light triangulation
  • Phase measurement profilometry
  • Moir fringes
  • Infrared position-sensitive detectors and
  • Stereo-photogrammetry.


The Body Scanner is similar to a dressing room in structure andutilizes laser technology to generate the exact dimensions of the human body.The 3D Body scanner consists of four columns each including two CCD camerasplus one class 1 eye-safe laser. The units are fixed onto the floor. Thescanning time requires only 8 seconds from top to bottom of the human body. Forthis purpose, the customer has to steps into the body scanner and removes allclothing, with the exception of his undergarments or tight sportswear such as Lycraor aerobic gear is worn during scanning.


The data collected during the scanning process-97measurements (few of those are needed to manufacture a suit or a lady's costume)are sent directly to a computer program, which is a part of the body scanning system.But scanning on its own cannot produce a finished item of clothing the key isthe software solution, the means by which the garment is configured. With theassistance of an experienced sales person, the customer chooses a cut and afabric and discusses his or her individual wishes.


A computer program is on hand to help the customer keep trackof the vast number of possibilities and choices that are available in theretailers, the consumer can get an accurate idea of how the finished suit or costumewill look by comparing all the different details (colour, fit, style etc) togenerate a realistic 3D representation of the customer is called 'Digital Twin'of the person scanned.


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Originallypublished in Pakistan Textile Journal: April 2009