Selecting a Shape

 Select a solid shape, preferably similar in size to the one with discrepancy in the measurements. In the instance of a leg for this example, a foam carving was used.

 A solid shape is essential as it eliminates any risk of manipulation. With a real body part, measurements can be affected by outside factors, like the strength applied to the measuring tape, the malleability of skin, angle of the limb, temperature, humidity and various other factors.

Marker Placement

 To establish a reference, we recommend at least 4 markers around the dummy part. These should be laid as horizontally as possible, on the same plane.

 Markers can be anything, but they need to be easily identifiable and usable. Possible markets include those found at office supply store, as depicted below. in the most horizontal manner, on the same horizontal plane. Contrasting colors are recommended.

These markers are intended as guidance on where the measurements will be taken, to reduce any risk of error when using the measuring tape. Slight variations of the angle of the tape relative to the part used for measurements can also induce errors in them.

This step should be repeated for 3 more horizontal circumferences, to have at least 4 sets of data to provide us with.

Scanning the Dummy

Scan your dummy part with color. Scanning in color is important, so that markers are picked up by the scanner.

Use the smallest scanning box possible that will contain your shape or use the automatic box placement strategy in 3DSizeMe settings. Ensure you see all the markers on your scan, to identify them in 3DSizeMe with the pinpoint tool.

Digital Measurements

Once that is done, transfer the scan to a computer to open it in MSoft. In the software, use the custom measurements options and select “Circumference”. Place the circumference as close as possible to the center of the markers.

Note the exact size reported by MSoft.

Physical Measurements

When the digital measurements in MSoft are taken, the same measurements must be taken on the dummy part with a measuring tape, by also placing it as close as possible to the center of the marker.

Note the exact size of the measurements taken.

Sending the Results

Please send us your digital and manual measurements and a picture of your dummy part. If possible, please take a picture with the measuring tape around it, as depicted below.

We do not require a particular format to send us the measurements. A simple table can suffice, such as this one: