Aetrex has introduced the new feature to its Foot.com platform, known as the Development Lab, allowing manufacturers access to endless 3D foot scan measurement capabilities in a bid to enhance footwear development.

Launched in September 2022, Foot.com allows designers to access global 3D foot data categorised by factors such as gender, foot size, and country, enabling the creation of shoes tailored to specific market segments.

The Development Lab collects a wide dataset of 3D foot scans from Aetrex's Albert 2 Pro and Albert 3DFit foot scanners, which claim to facilitate footwear designers and developers in crafting shoes that offer fit and functionality.

Aetrex's foot scanners employ a computer vision model to produce what it claims to be “the most accurate” 3D foot reconstructions available on the market.

The recent updates to Foot.com introduce several advanced features:

1. Development Lab "Lasso" tool: Resembling a virtual lasso, this tool envelops the 3D foot scan and can be manoeuvred along various axes to measure and assess a cross-section of any aspect of the scan. Users can pinpoint two spots within a cross-section for more detailed data analysis.
2. Anatomical reference points: Users can measure 3D foot scans using 16 standard foot landmarks, a framework established in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
3. 3D printed foot models for fit trials: Users can create 3D printed foot models based on population data and averages to offer a more precise fit evaluation throughout the footwear development process.

Larry Schwartz, CEO of Aetrex said: “Users of our new Foot.com Development Lab can manoeuvre 3D foot scans in any direction or angle, as if physically holding the scan in their hand. However, the true benefit of this platform is the breadth of data it provides and the variety and accuracy of its real-time calculations.

“We added these enhancements to Foot.com to take the guesswork out of the design process and pave the way for the future of footwear development.”

Aetrex says brands such as BOA Technology, which focuses on fit and performance, has already started using the latest feature on the Foot.com platform to enhance its product development processes.

In 2021, Aetrex launched its Albert 3DFit foot scanner which claimed to calculate customers’ 3D foot measurements in less than ten seconds with an accuracy of up to 1mm.