That 3-D data then got plugged into a solid-modeling program where engineering parameters such as material, thickness and structure were assigned to the shape.

FORBES: Easy Designer

In the past a product's shape alterations would be hammered out by designers in a surface-modeling program, a tool that allows for easy curve design and concept change.

FORBES: Easy Designer

The company has been very public about its software security program, to the point of publishing its threat modeling process and tools and exporting the program to its partners and other third parties.

FORBES: Is Apple Getting Serious About Security?

Originally created for the U.S. Department of Defense at the University of Iowa as part of the Virtual Soldier Research (VSR) program to help reduce physical strain on soldiers, Santos has been heralded by ergonomists as a breakthrough in digital modeling.

ENGADGET: SantosHuman's Virtual Soldier recruited by Ford for assembly line detail