The development of a 3D body scan and composition database to assess body size perception in psychological research. N Maalin, SM Mohamed, RS Kramer, et al.

Date: October 2019.
Source: 3DBODY.TECH 2019 – 10th International Conference and Exhibition on 3D Body Scanning and Processing Technologies, Lugano, Switzerland.
Abstract: Recently, there has been a shift towards the use of 3D scanning technology in body size perception research. Based on limitations of previous methodologies there is a need to develop and validate female body stimuli that are high-resolution, photo-realistic and biometrically accurate, and modern technology makes this possible. The aim of this project is to generate a database of full-body stimuli using 3D scans of females, varying in both BMI and body composition. This data will be used to generate female body stimuli that can be used in future research to improve the methodological assessment of body image and body size perception in both clinical and non-clinical settings. 3D full-body scans were taken using a 3dMD scanner, body composition data measured using a Tanita bio-impedance scale and physical measurements (chest, waist, hip and arm circumference) taken using a tape measure. The combination of these technologies will enable the statistical mapping of human body shape and composition change and variation across a range of different heights, ages and BMIs. The analysis will initially focus on Caucasian females aged 18-45 years old. Data processing techniques and preliminary analysis will be presented and the implications in relation to future research will be discussed.
Article: The development of a 3D body scan and composition database to assess body size perception in psychological research.
Authors: Nadia MAALIN, Sophie M MOHAMED, Robin S KRAMER, Andrew IRVINE, Piers L CORNELISSEN, Kay L RITCHIE and Martin J TOVÉE. School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England | School of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.