Automated side‐seam placement from 3D body scan data

Abstract

Purpose

The three‐dimensional (3D) body scanner is an important new technology that will impact the design and production of apparel, but use of this tool is at an early stage of development. Appropriate measurement extractions from the complex 3D scans that will address the needs of apparel patternmakers are an essential part of the development process for this new tool. The paper aims to address these developments.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a method of automatically locating the side seam for torso fitting garments from 3D body scans for a variety of body types was developed and tested. The method is based on the location of center points of body depth measurements, and five different body landmarks or combinations of body landmarks were tested to determine the best choice for implementation.

Findings

Based on rankings and ratings of the results by apparel experts, a method using the average value of body depth measurements taken at about 100 locations equally spaced from the axilla to the crotch was chosen as the best solution.

Research limitations/implications

Additional testing of this method and development of a method for locating the side seam for lower body garments is the next step in this research.

Originality/value

Identifying appropriate landmarks and body measurement extraction processes for apparel or style‐based measurements is as important as the more commonly derived anthropometric measures based on body landmarks. Landmarks such as side‐seam placement pose unique challenges that must be solved with analysis and reconstruction of style‐based data. The paper provides information on these factors.

Citation

Ashdown, S.P., Sung Choi, M. and Milke, E. (2008), "Automated side‐seam placement from 3D body scan data", International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 199-213. https://doi.org/10.1108/09556220810878829