Methods and Tools for 3D Measurement of Hands and Feet

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop a repeatable scanning protocol for the 3D scanning of hands and feet for a large anthropometric study, minimize user error, increase speed and scanning efficiency, and develop best practices to enable collaboration across multiple scanning sites. This research consisted of testing different landmark placements and tools, and the development and testing of stability/scanning platforms for the hand and foot. Landmark placements were chosen based on anthropometric landmarks that will be helpful for future glove and boot design. Various landmark tools were tested using two different types of stickers (square and round) and washable markers. These landmarking tools were used independently and together to test the visibility with color enabled scanning. Platforms were created to allow for both the comfort of the subjects and clear scans for both the foot and hand. Two of these platforms had frames (one wooden and one metal) and Plexiglas, while one was completely made of Plexiglas. Testing each piece led us to create a repeatable scanning protocol for the 3D scanning of hands and feet for future anthropometric studies across multiple scanning sites.

This research was partially supported by the Minnesota Agriculture Experiment Station.