Effect of the accuracy of 3D head scanners in product design development

Abstract

Human head needs to be protected from any risk as multiple sensory organs are located there. Hence it is very important to design products with a high level of comfort and fit in order for the product to perform its function. With the advancement of 3D scanning facilities, it is possible to acquire highly accurate and precise surface contour which can be used for designing customized products. With the availability of wide range of 3D scanners, it is necessary to evaluate the user experience of products developed from different scanners based on their accuracy and precision in scanning. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of accuracy of three 3D scanners in product designing and evaluating user’s comfort and fit parameters for the developed products. Participants were scanned using three different 3D scanners (Artec Eva 3D scanner, Cyberware 3030 color scanner and Structure sensor scanner). A mask frame was developed from every scan and then 3D printed for evaluation. The individuals were made to evaluate the designed mask frame to understand their comfort and fit experience. Based on the responses from the participants it was found that the mask frame developed from the scan acquired from Artec Eva 3D scanner was found to be the most comfortable one and had the best fit. The scans acquired from Cyberware 3030 color scanner had missing data and was reported slightly dissatisfaction on fit. The scans from the Structure sensor lacked precision and fine details, and the frame got the lowest rating at comfort level.