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postures. Software to represent digital clothing on an avatar faithfully and in highly
accurate detail is not yet developed. Fabric properties are not yet modeled in the detail
needed to actually predict every wrinkle and stress fold in the garment when worn.
However, some issues related to fit can be represented virtually at this stage, and fur-
ther developments will improve these technologies over time.

6.10 Future trends

Future trends in body scanning for anthropometric studies will be driven by the recent
and continual development of less expensive and more flexible ways of generating
3-D models of the body. Multiple technologies are being introduced now, some that
use various sensed data to generate the model and others that depend on a large data-
base of existing 3-D body scans and use more limited collected data to match and
select an existing 3-D model from the database.
The introduction and improvement of infrared-based scanning combined with
computing methods that interactively build a 3-D model from data generated as the
sensor is moved around the body are making 3-D body scanning from handheld scan-
ners practical. The cost of such scanners is a fraction of the cost of stationary scanners
using laser light or white light. Studies show that the scans taken with these scanners,
though lower in resolution than more traditional scanners, can be effective for the
needs of an anthropometric study. Direct comparisons of the measurements taken
by scanners using infrared light and scanners based on laser technologies indicate
much promise in the new technologies (Soileau et al., 2016). Multiple sensors set
up on tripods or incorporated into booth structures are also being marketed at much
lower cost than earlier scanners. The portability of these systems makes them very
appropriate for use in anthropometric studies.
It is difficult at this early stage to know which sensor devices will ultimately be
successful in the market, but the Structure Sensor, designed to be connected to an iPad,
is currently popular. This sensor company is also encouraging open-source develop-
ment of software associated with the sensor, which opens up more possibilities for its
ultimate use and success.
Systems to build a 3-D model from two-dimensional photographs have been under
development for many years and are now reaching the stage of practical application.
Models made from cell phone photographs are proliferating. One popular version uses
a special bodysuit with graphics to assist in 3-D image generation. These systems are
being introduced commercially, but few publications exist on studies of their effec-
tiveness. However, once verified, these technologies can be revolutionary in their
use in anthropometric studies. Their advantage is that they can be made available over
the Internet, so that participants in anthropometric studies can be recruited remotely.
Participants will be able to complete an online survey and then strip down and capture
their body data in the privacy of their own home.
The same is true of systems that choose a scan from an existing database to match
linear measurements taken of the body, but the inherent variability of the human form