Chinese Auricular Shape Types for Ear-related Wearables: A Study of 1,400 Participants from 2016 to 2020

There is a noticeable gap in research concerning the anthropometric classification of ear shapes in the Chinese population, especially when considering different age groups and geographical locations, particularly with the use of 3D data. This study employed 3D scanning and casting techniques to gather 18 ear measurements from 1,400 participants aged between 15 and 79 years. Ear shapes were classified into five distinct categories based on six primary factors. A strong correlation between ear type and age was found, indicating that ear morphology may change over time. A thorough understanding of the auricle’s intricate structure and its variation in shape across the mainland Chinese population is crucial for designing ear-related products that are both ergonomic and user-friendly.