About Us
We are an independent research group within the Center for Computer Aided Design at The University of Iowa. Funded primarily by the US Army, we conduct basic and applied research for creating new technologies dealing with digital human modeling and simulation. We are a group of 35 people (faculty, staff, scientists, engineers, clinical researchers, and graduate students) who have come together to create this new technology. The objective is to create human-like life on the computer, virtual humans/soldiers that can walk, behave, and talk like we do, yet are able to answer questions in the virtual world. Rather than building a vehicle, a tank, or a weapon system, we allow the virtual soldier to experience the product in the virtual world, thus providing feedback without building a prototype.
Our Vision
Our vision is to advance the state of the art in human modeling and simulation by conducting research in areas where we at The University of Iowa can add significant value, and by integrating technologies adapted from Hollywood and the video game industry.
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 SantosTM.
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.
Who is Santos?
Santos, an intelligent avatar with realistic biomechanical abilities, functions in a powerful human modeling and simulation environment, the Santos environment.
Santos conducts human factors studies, particularly in design relevant to training, production, or performance needs of real-world realistic systems. Santos addresses rigorous biomechanics, gait, motion prediction, and other related issues. Santos, unlike other digital human simulation solutions, acts intelligently and autonomously to allow humans to safely and effectively understand human performance and response in many scenarios.
