About Us
Santos Human Inc. is the for profit company licensed to distribute the world's first virtual human computer model and application able to accurately predict human motion. All of the research and development for this application arose from the research at the College of Engineering's Center for Computer Aided Design Virtual Soldier Research program at the University of Iowa. Funded primarily by the US Army, we conduct basic and applied research for creating new technologies dealing with human modeling and simulation. The objective is to create human-like life on the computer, virtual humans and soldiers that can walk, behave, and talk like we do, yet are able to answer questions in the virtual world. We allow the virtual soldier to experience the product in the virtual world and provide the user with feedback. Our group is one of the largest groups conducting this type of multidisciplinary research consisting of faculty, professional staff, scientists, engineers, clinical researchers, and graduate students who have come together to create this new technology. Our virtual human modeling and simulation environment is called Santos™.
Our Objectives
To develop a new generation of digital humans comprising realistic human models including anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, and intelligence in real-time. VSR's philosophy is based on a novel optimization-based approach for empowering these digital humans to perform, un-aided, in a physics-based world. Our objective is to test digital mockups of products and systems before they are built, thus reducing significant costs and time associated with making prototypes. We are a group of 36 researchers from all kinds of disciplines that have come together to create a digital human called Santos™.
Our Strengths
Built on over 16 years in modeling and simulation, 14 years in multi-body dynamics, and 10 years in robotics, our areas of expertise include the following: kinematics and dynamics of human motion artificial intelligence, cognitive and decision making based on emotions, real-time and multi-objective optimization, physiology-based human performance measures, biomechanics, human factors, and ergonomics. VSR conducts research aimed at creating human-like figures in physics-based environments that are interactive and intelligent. These humans can predict postures and motions and can execute tasks autonomously, responding to questions such as "Can you do this task?" and "When will you be tired?" They respond to real human actions and are sent to places where the real human cannot go. Our vision is to deploy these human avatars into vehicles, systems, and products, as well as on military "virtual" battlefields to try out new equipment and tell us whether we have designed them well. We certainly welcome anyone who wants to help.
