Page 66 - Anthropometry, Apparel Sizing and Design

Developing apparel sizing system using anthropometric data 95

4.2.1.2 Training the measurers

The next task is to prepare the measurers, if the anthropometry survey is conducted
manually. If the survey is to be done using digital methods, such as a 3-D body scan-
ner, then training will be focusing on using the sophisticated machine. The training for
an anthropometric survey for clothing purposes is based on the standard ISO
8559/1989, which defines the terms used for each different body dimension. Under
this ISO standard, there are 51 body dimensions to be measured for a clothing system.
These body dimensions are divided into three groups: vertical length, width, and girth,
as shown in Table 4.1. These dimensions are also divided into the upper and lower
body. The 29 dimensions suitable for the upper body or whole body are marked with
superscript “a”, while the other 20 dimensions (not marked) are categorized as lower
body dimensions.
First the measurers have to be briefed about the objectives of the anthropometric
survey. They can be introduced to the topic using a PowerPoint presentation, and the
objectives were clearly explained laying emphasis on the consistency and precision of
measurement process. Each of the trainees should be provided with a copy of the
anthropometric manual giving pictures of all the body dimensions. This is followed
by a detail explanation of each body dimension followed by a demonstration on a
real body.
The measurers should ideally work in pairs and perform hands-on practice on their
partners for some days till they are comfortable and familiar with each body dimen-
sion. Each measurer uses a form, which lists all the body dimensions to record the
measurements. The measurement practice should be continued until the measurers
gained confidence and started getting consistent readings.

4.2.1.3 Anthropometric measurement protocols
Anthropometric protocols demonstrate how a manual anthropometric survey can be
conducted. The measurement process starts with the subject changing into a tight-
fitting garment for better and more accurate body measurements. In every anthropo-
metric survey activity, a team of workers will attempt to finish the targeted number of
measurements per day to achieve their daily goal. Manual measurement takes an aver-
age of 40min per subject, and the goal is to measure at least seven people daily. Using
the 3-D body scanner, it is much faster: the time from changing clothes to completion
of measurement is about 5–10min per person.
A consistent set of procedures should be employed for the manual measurement
process, such as
– fill out demographic data (name, age, gender, and ethnic group),
– measure height,
– measure weight,
– measure upper body dimensions,
– measure lower body dimensions.

One member of the team can measure, while the other records the measurements. All
measurements should be taken from one side of the subject’s body consistently. After