Use of digital human modeling in product design

Advancements in digital human modeling (DHM) and computer-aided design have been influential in revolutionizing the field of product design. In the past two decades, DHM has been widely used in the fields of healthcare and medicine for designing prosthetic/orthotic based on patient’s condition. With the ease in developing digital models and the reduction of the cost involved in the process, it has also found its application in the fields of costume design, furniture design, and automobile design. DHM has been most prominently used where there is a high need of customization. In addition, generic, partial, and full body models have been created from large databases using different computational techniques, which can be used in deciding optimal sizing and grading parameters for different products. This can help in mass production and mass customization of such products. Furthermore, design prototype can be virtually simulated and tested using three-dimensional analysis software, which can help in understanding the interaction between the designed product and relevant body area. The simulation results can provide crucial information regarding parameters influencing the designed product. Design process of a scoliosis brace has been used as an example in this chapter to explain how DHM can enable human-centered product design.