Development of Three-Dimensional Anthropometry Methods for Patients with High Body Mass Index

Abstract

Patient handling equipment and related medical devices, such as hospital beds, slings, and patient transfer devices, must accommodate a diverse patient population while ensuring safety and comfort. Approximately 72 million U.S. adults, 34% of the adult population, are currently obese with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2. Detailed body size and shape data in functionally relevant postures are needed for this population to guide product design, but few individuals with high BMI have been measured in the postures of interest. This paper reports the development of methods to address the challenges of obtaining accurate and repeatable 3D anthropometry data for this population.