SANTOS DELIVERS SOLUTIONS

SPOTLIGHT: VSR

Virtual Soldier Research is a world leader in creating interactive, intelligent, and predictive human models that operate in virtual, physics-based environments.

WHO IS SANTOS?

At VSR, Karim Malek developed Santos and Sophia, the first-oftheir-kind virtual humans. The physics-based and predictive human simulation framework is used by the U.S. military, NASA, and auto manufacturers.

Human Modeling and Simulation

SANTOS DELIVERS SOLUTIONS

Physics-based virtual human model Santos has been integral to U.S. Army efforts to harness modeling and simulation technology to better predict and analyze soldier performance.

When the Army for the first time in 40 years overhauled the fitness program used to measure soldier readiness for combat, the military branch turned to the University of Iowa. The VSR team was asked to validate the new Army Combat Fitness Test, which includes the power throw, dead lift, 2-mile run, leg tuck, hand-release push-ups, and sprint-drag-carry.

The VSR team applied academic standards to evaluate the soundness of the methodology behind the test. Next, motion capture and Santos were paired to test whether the new battery of drills accurately represents and predicts a soldier’s ability to achieve common tasks in the field when it matters most. Given the substantial change from the old fitness test, questions have emerged from soldiers and congressional leaders alike. ITI has led the independent review to answer these questions and explain our findings to some of the nation’s largest media organizations, including The New York Times and The Washington Post.

Private industry partners also benefit from the capabilities of Santos. Santos is helping Collins Aerospace analyze the stress on the head and vertebrate as the defense giant modernizes aircraft ejection seats.