Nici Manikin
Characterization of sports bras with the instrumented manikin Nici
Device description and purpose
Nici is a female upper body manikin capable of simulating movement from walking to running speed. The manikin is connected to a motor system and can be equipped with different load, pressure and relative movement sensors. This allows the realistic simulation of movement patterns (speed/step frequencies, amplitudes of relative movement and inclination of the upper body).
With the integrated load cells in the 'back bone', forces and moments are recorded in all three axis.
The relative movements of attached sensors to the back bone are recorded using the Polhemus system which precisely registers the position and orientation over time.
For the characterization of a bra, breast prostheses of different cup sizes are used.
In combination with Tekscan surface pressure sensors, a versatile, unique analysis device is available for the investigation of interactions with the female upper body.
Technical details
- Female upper body with an under bust size of 80cm. The dimensions correspond to
anthropometric data of a 175 cm tall woman with an 80 cm under bust circumference and were
modelled with clo3d.
- The typical bra size is 80B. By changing the breast prosthesis, also bras with a size of 80C and 80D
can be tested.
- Rigid, hard shell part covered with a skin-colored soft foam
- Forces and moments are recorded in tree axis on the hip and shoulder level (2 force gauges)
- Relative movements are recorded at up to 8 positions. The sensors precisely register the
position and orientation over time.
- The interaction forces and contact pressure can be analyzed locally with matrix surface pressure
sensors.
- The walking system of the manikin allows to adjust the amplitude and step frequency according
to the intended movement pattern. A range from slow waking up to 16 km/h running can be
covered.
For further information please also see our Factsheet Nici (PDF)
Projects
- HSRB (HybridSwimRunBra): Development of a sports bra for combined land and water activities