3-D body scanning is a relatively new technology. It is a three-dimensional surface scanner that generates a 3-D computerized model from the body scanned. 3-D Body Scanning History The idea of wanting to create 3-D models of objects as well as of humans has been around for some time. The Egyptians made 3-D models using linen and plaster to create 3-D models of humans. Though 3-D modeling was possible at the time of the ancient Egyptians it was fairly inaccurate and very time consuming.
Later during the 1980's, 3-D scanning involved the use of physical probes that would touch the object or person being scanned and these points would be recorded to make a digital copy. However, without a way to store the digital information, 3-D scanning progress was limited. In the 1990's, greater digital storage was enabled allowing for 3-D scanning to further develop into what it is today.(10)
3-D Scanner Technology
Three dimensional (3-D) scanners work by projecting mini laser dots measuring the returning light from each one. Very similar to the way police radar guns work, as well as the way our eyes work by picking up reflected light. Because light travels at a specific speed, the computer can calculate the distance of the object and where a specific point is located. This is then compiled into a dot map, or dot cloud. The computer connects the information and generates a surface which is further refined. 3D scanning is a process used for many different applications from simple desktop versions for small real life model scans to industrial sized scanners for architectural buildings.
3-D Body Scanner
3-D body scanning has been quite challenging as the body has so many different textures and dimensions. From hair to fingernails, it is problematic for the scanner with the changes in reflected light as well as subtle color changes of skin and the curves of the body. The various textures are an issue as well as the natural movement of the body. To cope with these factors the 3-D body scanner will use a large quantity of dots and increase its speed. Some body scan equipment performs the entire scan in just 1-2 seconds. As the technology has improved the scans have become more accurate. There are other forms of technology that offer similar data of the body, like full body scans like the use of a medical CT scan. These often take 15 to 20 minutes and are done while lying inside a huge machine tunnel. The CT scan works by transmitting radiation and combining several x-ray images with computer created transections of the body. Unlike the CT scan, a 3-D body scan is quick and totally non-intrusive. An accurate scan could be taken from even a restless 2 year old. There are various types of 3-D body scanners. Some are large and self standing, there are even models that are handheld. Some are designed for specific body regions, like a face or a hand, while others are designed specifically to capture the whole body.
Applications
3-D body scanning is a new technology, but there are many potential applications currently in a small roll out phase or currently under development. 3-D body scanning will offer custom size & fit information that can be used in accurate size data for better apparel purchases. As this becomes readily available to the public, companies can offer effective virtual dressing rooms where one can see at home what an article of clothing will look like on them before ordering it.
3-D Body Scanners Could Revolutionize the Way We Shop for Clothes
Currently there are some companies using 3-D body scans for health and weight loss information. They use the scan to extract exact measurements and overall body composition during an initial visit. With that data, they create a diet plan for their customer and over time will perform future scans to monitor and track changes.
The medical applications of 3-D scanning is vast. Dentists and orthodontists can use the data to create custom braces, retainers, and mouth guards. Burn units can create perfectly fitted face masks to treat burn victims. Amputees can obtain custom fitted prosthetics. The benefits of the technology are far reaching medically speaking.
Insignia Scanning System scanning a residual limb.
3D_dental_scan
burn_mask.jpg
Current and future uses for 3-D body scanning also include the video gaming and entertainment industries. Players will be able to scan themselves and use the scan to create a character to be played directly in their game. Users will be able to interact in the virtual world with a character very similar to themselves. Rather than Buzz Lightyear beating Zurg, THEY can defeat Zurg! 3-D body scanning has been applied in filmmaking, and will continue to find uses for the technology in future uses. Areas in entertainment include custom and fitted costumes, particularly close to the body armor plating. It can also be used on actors and then transferred in a computer into a computer generated character for digital animation. This aids animators in creating realistic body and muscle structure and natural movement.
The Polar Express.
Army scientists are currently working with body scanning technology to develop custom fitted uniforms and body armor. The last time the army gathered general measurement sizes of various body types was in 1988. There has been a growing number of women joining the military and the body scanning technology will help the army even create a new common size index. Armor, helmets, and goggles are the first pieces of equipment that will improve once the army begins to implement the new technology.
Definition
3-D body scanning is a relatively new technology. It is a three-dimensional surface scanner that generates a 3-D computerized model from the body scanned.3-D Body Scanning History
The idea of wanting to create 3-D models of objects as well as of humans has been around for some time. The Egyptians made 3-D models using linen and plaster to create 3-D models of humans. Though 3-D modeling was possible at the time of the ancient Egyptians it was fairly inaccurate and very time consuming.
Later during the 1980's, 3-D scanning involved the use of physical probes that would touch the object or person being scanned and these points would be recorded to make a digital copy. However, without a way to store the digital information, 3-D scanning progress was limited. In the 1990's, greater digital storage was enabled allowing for 3-D scanning to further develop into what it is today.(10)
3-D Scanner Technology
Three dimensional (3-D) scanners work by projecting mini laser dots measuring the returning light from each one.Very similar to the way police radar guns work, as well as the way our eyes work by picking up reflected light. Because light travels at a specific speed, the computer can calculate the distance of the object and where a specific point is located. This is then compiled into a dot map, or dot cloud. The computer connects the information and generates a surface which is further refined. 3D scanning is a process used for many different applications from simple desktop versions for small real life model scans to industrial sized scanners for architectural buildings.
3-D Body Scanner
3-D body scanning has been quite challenging as the body has so many different textures and dimensions. From hair to fingernails, it is problematic for the scanner with the changes in reflected light as well as subtle color changes of skin and the curves of the body. The various textures are an issue as well as the natural movement of the body. To cope with these factors the 3-D body scanner will use a large quantity of dots and increase its speed. Some body scan equipment performs the entire scan in just 1-2 seconds. As the technology has improved the scans have become more accurate. There are other forms of technology that offer similar data of the body, like full body scans like the use of a medical CT scan. These often take 15 to 20 minutes and are done while lying inside a huge machine tunnel. The CT scan works by transmitting radiation and combining several x-ray images with computer created transections of the body. Unlike the CT scan, a 3-D body scan is quick and totally non-intrusive. An accurate scan could be taken from even a restless 2 year old. There are various types of 3-D body scanners. Some are large and self standing, there are even models that are handheld. Some are designed for specific body regions, like a face or a hand, while others are designed specifically to capture the whole body.Applications
3-D body scanning is a new technology, but there are many potential applications currently in a small roll out phase or currently under development. 3-D body scanning will offer custom size & fit information that can be used in accurate size data for better apparel purchases. As this becomes readily available to the public, companies can offer effective virtual dressing rooms where one can see at home what an article of clothing will look like on them before ordering it.Currently there are some companies using 3-D body scans for health and weight loss information. They use the scan to extract exact measurements and overall body composition during an initial visit. With that data, they create a diet plan for their customer and over time will perform future scans to monitor and track changes.
The medical applications of 3-D scanning is vast. Dentists and orthodontists can use the data to create custom braces, retainers, and mouth guards. Burn units can create perfectly fitted face masks to treat burn victims. Amputees can obtain custom fitted prosthetics. The benefits of the technology are far reaching medically speaking.
Current and future uses for 3-D body scanning also include the video gaming and entertainment industries. Players will be able to scan themselves and use the scan to create a character to be played directly in their game. Users will be able to interact in the virtual world with a character very similar to themselves. Rather than Buzz Lightyear beating Zurg, THEY can defeat Zurg! 3-D body scanning has been applied in filmmaking, and will continue to find uses for the technology in future uses. Areas in entertainment include custom and fitted costumes, particularly close to the body armor plating. It can also be used on actors and then transferred in a computer into a computer generated character for digital animation. This aids animators in creating realistic body and muscle structure and natural movement.
The Polar Express.
Army scientists are currently working with body scanning technology to develop custom fitted uniforms and body armor. The last time the army gathered general measurement sizes of various body types was in 1988. There has been a growing number of women joining the military and the body scanning technology will help the army even create a new common size index. Armor, helmets, and goggles are the first pieces of equipment that will improve once the army begins to implement the new technology.
References
http://www.diaxray.com/services/vcu_full_body.htmlhttp://www.human-solutions.com/fashion/front_content.php?idcat=140&lang=7&changelang=7
http://www.3dbodyscanning.org/cap/papers2016.html
http://www.totalrehabclinics.com/3d-body-scan
http://go.lmi3d.com/medical-applications-in-3d-scanning
http://www.hangerclinic.com/limb-loss/resources/what-to-expect/Pages/Insignia-Laser-Scanning.aspx
http://www.hangerclinic.com/bracing-support/burn-masks/Pages/default.aspx
https://www.fastcompany.com/3043073/body-labs-wants-to-give-you-3d-body-scans
https://defensesystems.com/articles/2015/04/28/army-natick-3d-body-scans-clothing-design.aspx
10.Konecny, Christina. "A Brief History of 3D Scanning." Matter and Form. N.p., 10 Dec. 2014. Web. 5 Mar. 2017.
https://matterandform.net/blog/a-brief-history-of-3d-scanning