Most anthropometric research stops at data collection. The HDL goes further:

• We embed 3D population shape data directly into design software and workflows to produce measurable, validated improvements in how products fit real human bodies. 
• We predict fit and integrate product-specific measurement data into a range of products, from gloves to respirators to compression garments. 
• We translate anthropometric data into real-world design applications ranging from hand clearance and workspace design in manufacturing facilities to personalized medical devices for pediatric patients. 
• We develop methods to integrate anthropometry directly into the engineering design process, enabling products to be designed around real human geometry.

This "data-to-design" integration is the defining methodology of the lab: it connects body shape and measurements not just to tables and percentiles, but to parametric design tools, digital fit simulation, physical prototype validation, sizing systems, and ultimately to products that work better for more people.

• LEARN—Develop expertise in 3D scanning and anthropometric analysis, shape-based design integration, parametric design systems, human factors research methods, digital fit simulation, and rapid prototyping—skills in high demand across product design, medical device, defense, and technology industries.
• CONTRIBUTE—HDL students contribute to nationally recognized research with real-world impact—from designing better gloves for firefighters and female workers, to creating personalized medical devices for children, to improving prosthetics for veterans. Your work will reach the people who need it most.
• COLLABORATE—Work alongside experts in medicine, mechanical engineering, public health, chemistry, and industrial design at UMN and with partners including Toyota, the VA, NIOSH, NASA, 3M, and others. HDL students have presented at international conferences in the U.S., Sweden, South Korea, France, China, and Switzerland.
• PUBLISH—HDL graduate students regularly co-author peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters. Recent HDL students have published in Applied Ergonomics, Annals of Work Exposures and Health, ASME Journal of Medical Devices, and HFES proceedings.

The HDL welcomes prospective students with backgrounds in industrial design, product design, apparel design, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, human factors, or related fields. Students from diverse backgrounds and with non-traditional career paths are strongly encouraged to apply.

The HDL focuses on one problem: body data is outpacing our ability to use it, creating a gap between measurement and design. Every project aims to close this gap. To explore partnership, contact Dr. Linsey Griffin, Director of the Human Dimensioning Lab.

Our core research has five interconnected themes:

1. Safe and scalable personalization (reproducible, personalized fit at clinical scale).
2. Body data integration (embedding 3D anthropometric data into design environments).
3. Fit prediction and recommender systems (matching people to products using body geometry).
4. Product-specific anthropometry (new measurement frameworks tailored to product and human needs).
5. Dynamic anthropometry integration (designing for the body in motion).

Learn more about our lab capabilities