Advanced Processing of 4D Body Scanning Technology for the Ergonomic Design of Products and Environments

Abstract

Anthropometrics have been crucial in the development of ergonomics. Traditionally, anthropometric data were summarized in statistical tables (means, percentiles, etc.,) that were then applied in the design process of products and environments. The emergence of 3D body scanners ushered in a new age for anthropometric research by providing, in addition to digital body measurements, a 3D representation of the body. Nowadays, the latest 4D scanning technology is able to capture the 3D body in motion. The complexity of these captures entails new challenges related to the processing, analysis, and synthesis of body data used to support ergonomics in design.