France-based CAD/CAM equipment manufacturer for the textiles, leather and industrial fabrics sectors Lectra has been selected by the China National Institute of Standardisation (CNIS) for the first digital Chinese body measurement campaign.

For this national campaign involving a total of 20,000 children and young adults (aged 4-17) from more than ten Chinese provinces, Lectra has provided its unique 3D measurement solution—based on equipment from its partner, Human Solutions—as well as technical support, training and consulting on measurement methods, protocols and data analysis.

Initiated in 2004, the Chinese campaign aims to formulate various national policies and to provide statistical support for commercial production of apparel, furniture, transportation, and other industries.

Within a few seconds, the company’s BodyScanner solution (consisting of an installation of four columns, each with two CCD cameras and a single eye-safe laser) scans and memorises body volume and calculates the person’s measurements and postures. All measurements are then extracted from the 3D scan and stored for statistical analysis.

Data collection has thus far been completed in China’s Shandong and Sichuan provinces; preliminary results will be unveiled at a CNIS press conference in Beijing this month.

Such results could be used to update sizes and patterns for the ready-to-wear industry, with the aim to satisfy consumers by introducing the notion of ‘perfect fit’ clothing that corresponds with the desires of individual consumers. The results will also benefit other sectors, including the furniture and automotive industries.