ABSTRACT
This study compared nineteen (19) human body measurements obtained from a new three-dimensional (3d) whole body scanner to the same measurements obtained by a qualified anthropometrist using standard direct body measurement techniques. The prototype scanner was based on millimeter wave technology (MMW) developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and their commercial partner
Intellifit. An important benefit of MMW scanning system over light-based scanners is the ability of low-power millimeter waves to pass through most clothing fabric and hair. Over 12 years of scanning experience the authors have observed that requiring subjects to change into body conforming scan wear such as spandex shorts is a major impediment to acceptance of 3d whole body scanning technology by the general public. The MMW scanner allows subjects to wear more comfortable clothing such as sweatpants or running shorts and a t-shirt. However, the advantage of MMW scanning is only realized if body measurements extracted from the surface data are comparable to standard direct anthropometric measurements. This study was undertaken to determine body measurement performance of the MMW system. Direct measurements served as the standard against which the scanner-derived measurements were compared.
