Hand measurement and analysis based on image and mark watershed algorithm

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a method for hand measurement based on image and marker watershed algorithm, and combine the data to analyze the shape and characteristics of the hand.

Design/methodology/approach

A portable hand image capturing instrument was designed and manufactured, and the hand images and dimensions of 328 young men in Zhejiang area were obtained. The outer contour curve of the hand and the key points of finger root, fingertip, wrist and knuckle position were extracted. Then, the size of each hand part was calculated. The hand data obtained from the two-dimensional image was compared with the manual measurement data. Finally, the hands were classified according to the measurement data, and the relationship between hand control size and hand length, hand width and the relationship between hand length and height were explored.

Findings

The data comparison results show that the two measurement methods have high data consistency and are replaceable. In addition, analyzing the data obtained four major characteristic factors that affect the shape of the hand, divided the hands of young men in Zhejiang into five categories, and obtained the regression equations of basic hand size, hand length and hand width, and obtained the regression equation of hand length and height.

Originality/value

The method proposed in this study to obtain hand size based on the image and mark watershed algorithm has lower requirements on the external environment and testers, conforms to the development trend of applying artificial intelligence to anthropometric engineering and provides a useful reference value for data collection of gloves specification design. In addition, the results of data analysis can provide a valuable reference basis for consumer hand shape predictions, which can be used to guide the research and production of hand instruments, the design of specifications series and the purchase of hand products.

Citation

Fan, D., Ma, X. and Wang, L. (2021), "Hand measurement and analysis based on image and mark watershed algorithm", International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, Vol. 33 No. 5, pp. 838-858. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCST-10-2020-0149