Researchers show off virtual human in 4D

Canadian researchers say they have developed the most detailed model of a human yet, a movable "4D" image that doctors can use to plan complex surgery or show patients what ailments look like inside their bodies. Called Caveman, the larger-than-life computer image encompasses more than 3,000 distinct body parts, all viewed in a booth that gives the image height, width and depth, the researchers said Wednesday. Caveman also plots the passage of time--the fourth "D." Scientists can layer on the unique visuals of patients, such as magnetic resonance images, CAT scans and X-rays, giving physicians high-resolution views of the inner workings of the body while it appears to float within arm's reach. It will help researchers study the genetics of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, muscular sclerosis and Alzheimer's, said officials at the University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine, which has worked on the system for six years. "Today, this kind of a model is unique in the world. It's the only one that is complete," said Christoph Sensen, director of the medical school's Sun Center of Excellence for Visual Genomics . "We have components of models. We could make this thing with 50 different brains because everybody makes their own brain model. What we didn't have was a whole, complete body."

Caveman is an offshoot of a 3D virtual reality "Cave," a $5.5 million lab the Sun Center opened in 2002 in conjunction with Sun Microsystems. The model started partly due to a desire among massage therapy teachers at a company in the central Alberta city of Red Deer for a more intricate picture of muscles and bones. It cost somewhere between $462,000 and $1.84 million. "It's very hard to guess, because it has taken many years, especially in Red Deer, with at least one or two artists constantly employed," Sensen said. Caveman, seen through 3D glasses in a booth, appears to stand in front of the viewer. As in a video game, the controller can manipulate it and focus on body parts--skin, bones, muscles, organs and veins.
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