Overview
EN ISO 20685-1:2018 - "3‑D scanning methodologies for internationally compatible anthropometric databases - Part 1: Evaluation protocol for body dimensions extracted from 3‑D body scans" provides an internationally agreed evaluation protocol for extracting one‑dimensional (1‑D) anthropometric measurements from 3‑D body scans. Published by CEN as an adoption of ISO 20685-1:2018, the standard focuses on ensuring comparability and accuracy of body dimensions (as defined in ISO 7250-1) derived from 3‑D point clouds produced by whole‑body and body‑segment scanners (head, hand, foot). It does not cover instruments that measure landmark motion or location.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Accuracy of extracted measurements: Defines how to assess whether scanner‑derived dimensions approximate the "true value" (taken as measurements by experienced anthropometrists using ISO 7250-1 methods).
- Selection of extracted measurements: Guidance on which ISO 7250-1 dimensions can reliably be obtained from 3‑D scans (lengths, circumferences, etc.).
- Standard values and definitions: Uses ISO 7250-1 measurement definitions and anatomical landmarks to promote international compatibility.
- Validation study design: Procedures for planning and conducting validation studies, including test subject selection, sampling considerations, repeatability assessment and analytical procedures.
- Analytical procedures and reporting: Requirements for statistical analysis, reporting of results and documenting limitations so datasets can be judged for database inclusion.
- Point cloud and coordinate systems: Terminology and quality considerations for raw 3‑D point cloud data and x,y,z coordinate mapping.
- Error reduction: Informative annex outlining methods to reduce scanning error across hardware and software workflows.
- Scope limitations: Applicability to surface‑scanning systems; excludes motion/landmark‑tracking instruments.
Practical Applications
EN ISO 20685-1:2018 is practical for organizations that need reliable anthropometric 1‑D data from 3‑D scans, including:
- Clothing, footwear and protective equipment design (size systems and fit analysis)
- Automotive and workplace ergonomics (seat and cabin design)
- Medical and rehabilitation device sizing
- Human factors research and product development
Following this standard helps ensure 3‑D scanner outputs are suitable for inclusion in international anthropometric databases and interoperable with established measurement definitions.
Who Should Use This Standard
- Users creating 1‑D anthropometric databases from 3‑D scans
- Consumers of 3‑D‑derived anthropometric data
- Scanner designers and manufacturers seeking to meet client validation needs
- Ergonomists, anthropometrists and standards bodies assessing data quality
Related Standards
- ISO 7250-1 - Basic human body measurements: definitions and landmarks (normative reference)
- ISO 15535 - Guidance on anthropometric databases and population sampling
Keywords: EN ISO 20685-1:2018, 3‑D scanning, anthropometric databases, evaluation protocol, body dimensions, ISO 7250-1, point cloud, validation study, accuracy, repeatability.
