Anthropometry

Mission

The mission of the IEA Technical Committee on Anthropometry (IEA TC-Anthropometry) is to advance the understanding and sharing of anthropometric knowledge. The committee supports researchers by promoting the development and dissemination of methodologies that ensure comparability across anthropometric surveys and studies. Prioritizing standardized methods and best practices, it aims to ensure the repeatability and reproducibility of measurement protocols as well as the analysis and synthesis of anthropometric data. This enables the application of human body dimensions and morphological variability to the ergonomic design of products and environments, considering factors such as inclusivity, comfort, fit, performance, and safety.

 

Scope

The scope of the IEA TC-Anthropometry encompasses research and knowledge spanning from data acquisition to its application in ergonomic assessment and design. This includes:

• Anthropometric measurement tools, including manual anthropometry and body scanning technologies, as well as comparisons between manual and digital methods.

• Anthropometric measurement methodologies and protocols, considering factors such as errors, repeatability and reproducibility.

• Anatomical models for defining body landmarks and measurements tailored to various applications.

• 3D/4D data pre-processing techniques.

• Multivariate analysis of 1D/3D data and synthesis for ergonomic applications.

• Development of generative body shape models.

• Application of anthropometry to product fit and sizing, including fit testing, evaluation, and optimization.

 

Structure

The IEA TC-Anthropometry is led by two co-chairs and comprises 75 members, most of whom are also participants in the group’s LinkedIn platform. The committee convenes at least once every three years during the IEA conference, providing a forum for in-person collaboration and discussion. To foster continuous engagement and facilitate knowledge sharing, the committee encourages members to participate in digital initiatives, such as webinars, discussion forums, and other online activities. Membership inquiries can be directed to the co-chairs via email.

 

Goals of the IEA TC-Anthropometry for 2024/2027

1. Organize annual webinars on Anthropometry, guided by a comprehensive dissemination plan, to ensure diverse topics and global outreach.

2. Foster enhanced member engagement by establishing sub-committees focused on specialized areas, which will contribute to the development of webinars, training sessions, and other knowledge-sharing initiatives.

3. Develop an on-site workshop or training course aligned with the IEA2027 conference, incorporating practical and theoretical anthropometric applications to provide a holistic learning experience.

 

Proposal of Webinar Series IEA TC-Anthropometry 2024/27

Series 1: Fundamentals of Anthropometry

1. Anthropometric Measurement Techniques and Tools • Introduction to Anthropometry

• Definition and Importance

• The history of anthropometry

• Changes in methodologies over time

• Manual 1D Measures: anthropometer

• 3D/4D Methods: Laser Scanners, Stereo Photogrammetry

2. Accuracy and Reliability • Intra, inter observer errors

• Anthropometric allowable errors

• Calibration of measuring tools

3. Data Collection and Analysis • Designing Anthropometric Studies

• Data Collection Protocols (ANSUR, CAESAR, ISO etc.)

• Statistical Analysis and Interpretation

Series 2: Applications of Anthropometry

1. Anthropometry in Ergonomics • Workspace Design

• Equipment Design

• Human Factors and Usability

2. Anthropometry in Health and Medicine • Clinical Applications

• Body Composition Analysis

• Growth and Development Studies

3. Anthropometry in Fashion and Apparel • Size and Fit Optimization

• Pattern Making and Grading

• Customization and Personalization

Series 3: Emerging Trends and Technologies

1. Digital Anthropometry • Use of 3D scanning and imaging

• Software tools for data analysis

• Innovations in measurement techniques

2. Cultural and Social Dimensions • How culture influences body measurements

• Anthropometry in different populations

• Ethical considerations in anthropometric research

3. Future Directions in Research • Trends in anthropometric research

• Interdisciplinary approaches and collaborations

• The impact of technology on future studies

Schedule of the webinars

• Year 1: Series 1 (Fundamentals of Anthropometry) • Webinars: Q1, Q2, Q3

• Year 2: Series 2 (Applications of Anthropometry) • Webinars: Q1, Q2, Q3

• Year 3: Series 3 (Advanced Topics in Anthropometry) • Webinars: Q1, Q2, Q3

Planned sub-committees:

No	Subgroup	Name	Country
1	Human modeling	Sofia Scatagfini; Belgian Military Hospital Quen Astrid Royal Military Academy	Belgium
2	Anthropometry in developing countries	Sarah Banatyne; Ergonomics Engineering	South Africa
3	Anthropometry and fit	Daisy Veitch, Smart Dummies and Kathleen Robinette, Fit Metrics	Australia, USA
4	3D Anthropometry and Virtual fitting	Prof Hein Daanen, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam	Holland
5	DHM	Matt Reed, University of Michigan, USA	USA
6	Database and accuracy	Matthew Parkinson, University of Pennsylvania and Makiko Kouchi	USA, Japan

 

Anthropometry TC_semi-annual report Dec 1 2022

Anthropometry TC_semi-annual report Jun 1, 2022

IEA Anthropometry TC MEETING MINUTES 15 June 2021