New technology scans full body for perfect fit in seconds

Philadelphia, PA - March 24, 2006 - Intellifit scans fully clothed people to chart their exact clothing size. The system also allows clothiers to improve their sizing schemes via real life data. Intellifit founders licensed the core technology from the government which had originally funded development for security applications. Bresslergroup, a full service product development firm in Philadelphia, was brought on board to turn this large and complex electromechanical system into an approachable retail device.

The scanning is fast - about 10 seconds and the onboard computer prints out sizing information along with information about specific brands that are cut to fit the user best. Intellifit allows users to keep their street clothes on during scans while competitive scanning systems required customers to change into cycling shorts and tight fitting tops. This created aprehension among users - especially women – and added logistical issues including the need for a changing room, security for personal items, etc.

Determining how the user would interact with the system and what the system should look like was quite challenging. The scanning process is very public since it is done in the store and determining dress size can be a delicate matter. "Open" and "dignified" were key descriptive terms the team used throughout the design process. Research suggested that consumers preferred an open / transparent setting similar to how tailors measure and fit people for dresses, suits, etc. Transparent walls reflected "openness" and the simple elegant forms and finishes expressed dignity.

The Intellifit System has been featured in multiple print and broadcast media, including Fortune Magazine, Time, The Wall Street Journal, ABC's Good Morning America and NBC's Today Show. The design helped create a buzz in the press which in turn helped the company successfully launch the product. To date Intellifit has installed 14 units which is exactly on par with their launch plan. Customer acceptance has been universally positive.

Back to main news >>