Researchers from the School of Computing at the National University of Singapore (NUS Computing) have unveiled AiSee. This revolutionary wearable device is designed to use artificial intelligence to make daily life easier for visually impaired people.
An Innovative Solution for the Visually Impaired’s Daily Challenges
AiSee, developed over a period of five years, uses cutting-edge AI technology to help visually impaired people with their everyday tasks, including shopping. Recognising and identifying objects is becoming easier thanks to this innovative device.
Associate Professor Suranga Nanayakkara, AiSee’s principal investigator, emphasises the user-centred approach. Unlike traditional methods involving glasses equipped with a camera, AiSee incorporates a discreet bone-conduction headset. This eliminates the stigma associated with wearing glasses.
AiSee’s simple & intuitive operation
AiSee offers a simple and intuitive user experience. Users hold an object, activate the built-in camera, and the AI analyses the object, providing information on demand. Three key components make up AiSee: the eye (vision engine software), the brain (AI processing unit), and the speaker (bone conduction sound system).
AiSee Core Components
- The Eye: Vision Engine Software AiSee incorporates a micro-camera that captures the user’s field of vision. The vision engine software analyses features such as text, logos and labels to provide visual information.
- The Brain: AI and Q&A After capturing an image, AiSee uses cloud-based AI algorithms to interpret the images. Users can ask questions about the object, and AiSee excels at interactions thanks to its powerful linguistic model.
- The Speaker: Bone Conduction Sound System The headset uses bone conduction to transmit sound, allowing users to receive auditory information while remaining aware of surrounding sounds.
Autonomy & Inclusivity
AiSee operates autonomously, requiring no additional equipment. The device aims to empower visually impaired people, opening up new possibilities. Tests with visually impaired users, in collaboration with SG Enable in Singapore, aim to improve AiSee to make it more affordable and accessible.
