Recap of Iowa Virtual Human Summit 2021

ITI leadership, expertise on display at 2nd Iowa Virtual Human Summit

Written by: Cory Tays, University of Iowa Technology Institute

Advancements in digital human modeling and simulation have expanded opportunities for the United States Armed Forces, video game makers, and manufacturers to improve human performance and enhance realism in virtual environments, presenters relayed during the University of Iowa Technology Institute’s (ITI) second annual Iowa Virtual Human Summit.

“The purpose of this summit is to bring together experts and innovators in this field,” ITI Director Karim Malek said. “Human modeling and simulation as it relates to human performance is a topic of major concern for the military, police, and across industries.”

The virtual event focused on benefits virtual humans can bring to human performance. More than 20 speakers and presenters participated, including from Epic Games, the creator of the mega hit video game Fortnite; WHOOP, a fitness device maker; and the U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training (CIMT), which leaned on ITI’s digital human modeling expertise in testing the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT).

The third Iowa Virtual Human Summit is being planned in person in Iowa City, Iowa, in late August 2022. The event will be held in conjunction with the 7th International Digital Human Modeling Symposium, which is being hosted by ITI.

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