Detail anthropometric dimensions and a 3D shape of the outer-ear are applicable to design ear-related products such as an earphone. However, 3D scanning of the ear part is quite difficult due to a complex shape of the ear, also detailed ear dimensions which are needed to be measured for earphone design were not identified in previous studies. This study collected 3D scan images of the whole outer-ear from 100 Korean participants (50 females and 50 males) aged 20 to 59, then measured their detailed ear dimensions for earphone design. The pinna part was directly 3D scanned; and complex shape of the concha and acoustic canal parts were cast by applying an ear casting tool, then the cast was scanned in 3D. 13 ear dimensions were measured by applying an ear measurement system coded using Matlab. Both 3D ear scans and ear measurements were applied to design some earphone parts (earphone-head, ear-band, ear-tip) in this study.
Abstract3D scanning technology has derived great opportunities for ergonomic product designs. This paper is aimed to introduce various research cases and methods based on 3D scanning have conducted by an ergonomics laboratory in South Korea. Sizing systems and representative 3D models developed on anthropometric measurements and 3D scan images with technical know-how were applied to the design of various products. Head, face, ear, upper limb, and waist parts, and full body in seated were anthropometrically analyzed for the design of headwear (e.g., helmet, goggle, and headphone), oxygen mask, earphone, arm-wear (e.g., watch, armband), hip protector, and vehicle seat, Customized software for the efficient analyses such as measurement of anthropometric dimensions, analysis of sizing systems, extraction of representative models, and virtual fit evaluation between products and the body were developed and applied in the product design process with massive 3D images. Representative models (e.g., torso and head) were printed in 3D for effective usage to the design and evaluation of related products. Advanced methods and techniques such as finite element modeling, morphing, and skin deformation have been applied to 3D scanned images for an advanced design of product shapes in further researches.
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