Alvanon fashion fit masterclass

Laser and white light scanners are high density surface scanners, meaning that they will scan

whatever the subject is wearing. To collect information about the body shape and measurements,

the subject needs to be wearing tight clothing or underwear. The scanned image is high in

resolution and details. This type of technology is best used to collect detailed scans for individuals. It can also be used for mass market research, such as consumer sizing studies, but two things need to be considered. First, although the scanning itself takes two minutes, the preparation time is long for each person to take their clothes off and on. Secondly, the scanning cannot be done in shopping malls or stores because people do not wish to be scanned in public areas while being semi-naked.

Millimeter wave scanners are low density penetration scanners, meaning that they will scan through clothing to collect the scan. This technology is similar to metal detector machines at the airport, which sends millimeter waves that bounce off metal and water. Since the human body is 60 per cent water, millimeter waves can collect body shape and measurements accurately, but the scan collected is low in resolution and detail. The benefit of this type of scanner is that scanning takes only one minute and there is no preparation time at all because a person can simply enter the scanner wearing clothes.

X-ray scanners are also low density penetration scanners that can scan through a person’s clothing. These scanners are being used at airports in the USA and UK for security checks. The technology is based on x-rays, similar to the ones you get at the doctors, although some experts are debating whether the strength of the x-rays and frequency of scans are safe for air travel passengers. This technology is currently being used for security issues and not for the purpose of body measurement collections.

Body scanners are normally quite large in size and difficult to transport, though in the last two years mobile versions of body scanners are beginning to come onto the market. The price range of body scanners vary enormously, so it’s important to do research to see which one is the most suitable.

By Jeff Cheung

General manager Asia

Alvanon Hong Kong