The Parametric Human project explores the possibilities of developing an advanced multiscale parametric digital human biomechanical model. A number of global virtual human initiatives are underway, but these efforts focus on medical applications, while our purposes are to support advanced digital ergonomics. As such, we start from the anatomical level and work towards sub-anatomical structures, only as they affect biomechanics.

Currently, when designers build objects or tools with which humans interact, the digital prototypes they create cannot easily be tested against known human factors needs. By providing a digital human model to designers, the ergonomics of the digital prototypes can be tested and refined through simulation, thereby reducing the need to fabricate many iterations of physical prototypes. Furthermore, if the digital human model is parametric and can represent a number of real human sizes, shapes, and motions, designs could be tested against entire target market segments.

Over the course of 2009, we are building a consortium of experts to guide this highly multidisciplinary effort. Please contact us to learn more.