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Utilizing SizeUSA Data to Reassess the Size and Fit of Sheer Hosiery     by Kim Anderson, [TC]²

For years U.S. sheer hosiery manufacturers have used NAHM flat forms, Wolf Forms and various non-standardized forms to assess the fit of sheer hosiery. However, the lack of a standard industry form has resulted in inconsistencies. Realizing a reliable method was needed, a group of sheer manufacturers formed The Sheer Hosiery Sizing Committee and contacted the Hosiery Technology Center for help. The goal was to establish a repeatable, consistent and cost effective procedure for testing the size and fit of women’s and girl’s hosiery products.

From the onset, researchers knew they needed current measurements of real people to build an updated form. The Hosiery Technology Center collaborated with [TC]2 researchers to extract the average measurements for a given size and weight range from the SizeUSA survey. From this data a CAD drawing of a human leg was rendered and a 2D form constructed. A number of challenges arose. More than one 2D form would be needed to assess the fit of a range of sizes. In addition, to determine the fit, researchers needed to touch and feel the hose on the form which led to subjective and hard to measure results. The research group decided a 3D form would be superior to a 2D form.

To produce a 3D form of the human leg, volumetric based measurements were extracted at three key points—the hip, knee and ankle. Researchers used the volume of these three points to estimate the shapes and curves of the adjoining area. A 3D CAD drawing of a human leg was rendered. From the drawing a 3D form was built and tested. The fit of a wide range of sizes could accurately be tested on the 3D form. Hosiery designed for women weighing between 90-200 pounds—whether she was tall and linear or short and round—could be determined on the 3D form.

The success of the project was due to accurate reliable data, thorough research and collaboration between the teams. Researchers plan to elaborate on the project. Future plans include constructing a form that will determine the fit of hosiery for women ranging from 200-450 pounds. They also will expand the form to include the waist and hip.