WEAR has created a new website for our members which is more accessible and very easy to navigate so everyone can use it. You can join our website for free at bodysizeshape.com which allows you to follow our blog, comment on posts and stay up to date with news and events. Additionally, we have the option for members to subscribe to the databases online which gives you added access to all of our anthropometric databases for 300 euros per year. 

You can subscribe to WEAR databases at this link 

On the 19^th and 20^th of November 2013, WEAR members attended the Fourth Annual Conference on 3D Body Scanning Technologies in Long Beach, California. The conference was attended by 193 guests from a wide range of international backgrounds. An exhibition held parallel with the conference worked in tandem to highlight the importance of international interest in 3D body scanning. The advances which have been made in 3D scanning technology over the last twenty years were expressed and the interest in their ongoing development explored in depth. Some highlights of the conference included Kathleen Robinette’s opening keynote speech and Pirjo Elbrecht’s speech on 3D body scanning in conjunction with digital tailoring. These presentations accompanied by the presence of WEAR at the conference could not have been made possible without the support of CODATA. For more information about the CODATA Task Group on Anthropometric Data and Engineering see their website here. 

The keynote speech given by Dr Kathleen Robinette highlighted that new technology is valued for definitive reasons. New technology is adopted for key reasons which include that it looks impressive, that it enables us to do something better or cheaper, that it is easier to use and that it enables us to do something we couldn’t do before. However, there was a key lesson to be examined among these points. Dr Robinette identified that just because a technology is newer, it does not automatically make it better than the older technology.

Dr Robinette further explored anthropometric technology and its evolution during her presentation and then discussed where the goals and aims which are associated with 3D scanning are directing the science of anthropometry. It was explained that although 3D modelling is a highly effective enabler in determining shape, volume and contours, 1D instruments like the tape measure are still markedly superior over 3D imaging in terms of measurements like circumference. The speech sent the message that although 3D imaging is a crucial implement to use to enhance studies in the field of anthropometry, it is not yet enhanced enough to disregard the importance of getting information from multiple sources including 1D traditional measurement. The most effective way of gaining accurate models is achieved through the use of multiple data collection including fit data.  She said that made-to-measure, size prediction from scans, virtual try-on models, digitial human models and similar technologies continue to be developed and fail.  Each going out of business eventually.  Why?  Because they do not include fit measurements.  You need to measure fit if you want to predict it and the future of anthropometry needs to include fit measurements.  She gave many examples and illustrations about why fit knowledge is essential to success. Dr Robinette’s abstract can be found here for interested parties: 3D Body Scanning, Past and Future.