Rapid calculation of bespoke body segment parameters using 3D infra-red scanning
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Updated: Feb 3, 2026

Rapid Scan Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Opens New Avenues for Imaging Physiologically Important Parameters In Vivo
Published on: September 26, 2016
Samuel H L Smith1, Anthony M J Bull1
1Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Body segment parameters such as segment mass, centre of mass and moment of inertia, serve as important inputs for musculoskeletal modelling. These parameters are normally derived from regression tables; however, can be poorly representative of the study population with variations of up to 40% recorded between different tables. More recent methods, such as 3D scanning, present a rapid and accurate way to produce subject-specific body segment parameters for use in musculoskeletal models. An infra-red 3D scanner was used to produce full-body scans of 95 males and females. Each was put through an algorithm to calculate bespoke segment mass, centre of mass and inertial properties for each segment of the body, with results comparable to cadaveric data. These methods could be used to increase the specificity of musculoskeletal modelling outputs for individual subjects, improving the accuracy of modelling outputs in biomechanics-related research.
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