Virtual Soldier Research program saves military time, money

By: John LohmanAnnie Smith Barkalow|September 14, 2023

|4 min read

A metallic sign on a door has a silhouette of a soldier holding a gun. A circle goes around the soldier with the words "Virtual Soldier Research."

The Virtual Soldier Research program has helped the Army adjust its combat physical fitness test, thanks to human simulators. CREDIT ANNIE BARKALOW

For 40-plus years, the Army has been waiting for someone like 18-year-old Santos. He runs, he deadlifts, executes push-ups and carries burdens like a pack mule and is fresh as a daisy the next day. He’s also entirely virtual.

Santos (and his female counterpart Sophia), is a biomechanically accurate digital avatar that predicts behavior through recorded motion of various exercises, and is a key component to…

Want to Read More?

Get immediate, unlimited access to all subscriber content and much more.

Learn more in our subscriber FAQ.

Subscribe

OR

Login

Unparalleled business coverage of the Iowa City / Cedar Rapids corridor.Immediate access to subscriber-only content on our website.26 issues per year delivered digitally, in print or both.Support locally owned and operated journalism.

Do you want to read and share this article without a paywall?

Click here to purchase a paywall bypass link

Annie also writes the Innovation Watch Newsletter - Sign up here

Virtual Soldier Research program saves military time, money

Want to Read More?

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE