Aims
This study aimed to highlight the challenges that the biomedical industry face when fulfilling gaps in user data used to inform biomedical device design. Numerous publications have called for the rollout of ‘modern’ techniques when gathering anthropometric data. A pilot study which aimed to implement technological advances into human factors studies unveiled the challenges associated with these new techniques.
Research Questions
What challenges are associated with implementing modern technological equipment and methodologies in anthropometric studies?
How can we learn from these challenges to improve upon future endeavours?
Methodology
14 participants hands were scanned using a Einscan Pro 3D 2x 3D during a conference in Galway, June 2023. Sensorised surgical gloves, with sensors on the pad of each digit and the palm measured Maximum Voluntary Contraction readings during Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation device use.
Findings
3D scans presented gaps in the mesh due to variability in participants’ hand positioning during the scans, or due to unfinished scans. A busy background interfered with the scanners ability to produce clean meshes. Force data showed undesired variability. Ideal sensor placement varied for users due to nuances in hand shape and size, and device asymmetries. This study is ongoing and anthropometric data will not be published until a clinical study with interventional cardiologists in March 2024 implements improvements. The 3D scanning will have stricter positioning guidance and will be conducted with an empty background. A study will investigate the optimal placement for the sensors which will be screen printed onto gloves.
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