The integration of 3-D hip-shape anthropometric data bank and human-engineered seat-cushion: The classification of hip shapes and category of seat cushions

Custom fitted seat cushions work to improve posture, alleviate fatigue and prevent bedsores by evenly distributing body mass and relieving single or multiple points of pressure. Existing commercially-available bedding and seating is unsatisfactory to patients and professional alike. Three-dimensional anthropometric measurement technology is employed to establish a database of hip-form profiles. This database includes 400 individuals grouped into five categories based on the shapes and measurements of 3-D hip-forms analogous to women's brassiere cup sizes. Each class is matched within a range of a anthropomtric values such as height, weight, hip-circumference and thigh-diameter. With such human factor engineering considerations, the preliminary 3-D hip-form data-base has created practical distinctions between the five hip-form classes that could help to design patient specipic seating that is both comportable and healthy.