Study on 3-D digital measurement of posterior neck shape of fighter pilots

Objective To obtain the 3D shape data and features of 50th percentile posterior neck length in Chinese pilots.Methods The posterior neck length was measured in 150 fighter pilots by developed probe array and then 32 fighter pilots who were in accordance with 50th percentile posterior neck length were selected based on these 3D digitized posterior neck measurements.Results The method of digitized measurement was established.The range of posterior neck length was from 81 mm to 168 mm,the mean length was 127.3 mm in 150 pilots.In 32 fighter pilots with 50th percentile posterior neck length,the length range was from 120 mm to 123 mm,the mean length was 121.4 mm.The least square fitting curve was got then and 3D model was established.Conclusions The developed equipment and method are practical and effective.The results can be applied to the 3D analysis of posterior neck shape features and to the design of the neck support and head rest of ejection seat. Key words: Posterior neck;  Anthropometry;  3D digital measurement