Colleen Gelhaus Pokorny

Methods to conduct large-scale anthropometric studies to capture civilian measurements are inefficient and expensive. Industrial engineering principles were applied to improve the data capture process to build comprehensive datasets. The goal was to transform the raw materials (the participant) into a tangible product (anthropometric data) with minimal waste (time, equipment, and space). Traditional elements of an anthropometric study were evaluated based on how the study was conducted. Developed methods were applied to a study capturing scans of 398 participants over 7 days. Participants continually flowed through the study stations and completed it in 23.09 min on average. The study cost $34.18 per participant, compared to a traditional anthropometric study cost of $46.95 per participant. The results present the value of applying industrial engineering principles to anthropometric study design to improve the quality and accessibility of data used for human factors analyses and product design.

Performance gloves worn for work, sport and thermoregulation are
known to have fit challenges because there is a lack of accurate and relevant
civilian anthropometric data for product manufacturers. Fit challenges also exist
because manufacturers neglect to communicate with users at the point-of purchase and during the design process about their experiences and needs with
glove fit. Poor fitting gloves can interfere with sensory information, accuracy,
protection, mobility and blood flow. There is a considerable opportunity to
improve glove fit. This qualitative study addressed the issue of communicating
with users during the design process, by collecting fit data directly from users
about their experiences with performance gloves used for work, sport and
thermoregulation. Results from the study uncovered that both men and women
have fit challenges across all performance glove market segments and simple
user check-points during the design process could help to develop better performing
products.

The purpose of this research was to explore new methods of 3D scanning, body postures, and landmarking techniques to complete in-depth analyses of skin deformation, measurement change, and shape change of the waist-hip-thigh region of the body. There is a need to develop and test new integrated measurement analyses using 1D, 2D, and 3D data to quantify how and where the body is changing in different postures. An integrated approach was taken to select the appropriate 3D scanning technology, develop a landmarking method, and position the body to analyze the waist-hip-thigh region. A convenience sample of 11 women participated in the pilot study, ranging in age from 41-73. Using aquadrant landmarking technique, the body was divided into sections to locally analyze 1D and 2Dmeasurements, while conducting volume and curve analysis to aid our understanding of shape change. Local percent change of each circumference was significant, and the data across the various measurements captured the expansion and shrinking of the body. Additionally, the 1D, 2D, and 3D analysis of the models shows the body deforming differently based on participant size, indicating this type of data could be critical for improved size system creation. The results from the extraction of curves represents exciting frontiers in 3D shape research and in the future will enable shape to be more easily incorporated into wearable garments. This data can improve the development of materials, trims, pattern design, and sizing systems. New 3D scanning methods to quantify diverse bodies can improve a company’s competitive advantage through enhanced product fit and inclusive, quality design for all.

This design reimagines suffragette dress through a contemporary feminist lens, using upcycled bedsheets to symbolize unpaid labor while prioritizing size adjustability, sustainability, and historical continuity. Inspired by Alice Paul, the look merges aesthetic strategies of early 20th-century activism with modern design practices to advocate for gender equity today.

This project explores collaborative Kantha-inspired jacket making as a response to academic loneliness, demonstrating how communal handcrafting fosters social connection, supports well-being, and sparks curricular innovation among faculty in higher education.