Intelligent Assistive Technology and Systems Lab (IATSL)
IATSL – Intelligent Assistive Technology and Systems Lab:
Smart camera systems are typically focused on security applications. However, there are lots of other applications these systems can be used for. IATSL is a university laboratory that has applied smart camera technology to issues around accessibility and disability. Two simple examples:
Alex Mihailidis has worked on a smart camera setup that provides voice prompts for people washing their hands (link to Efficacy of Visual Prompting Among Older Adults with Dementia). This is needed, because people with dementia often have difficulty doing simple tasks such as handwashing.
A smart camera setup is used to watch stairs and automatically detect any anomalous (unsafe) events that may occur. This system is useful “to help further the understanding of the causes and catalysts of injuries on stairs and prevent accidents on stairs. Furthermore, such a system can help promote independence for older adults as their inability to safely traverse stairs greatly impedes their ability to live independently at home.” (link to Automated detection of anomalous events on stairs)
I would like to see systems like this in widespread use. It reminds me of the sounds they put on some traffic lights, to alert people who aren’t able to see when the light is red.
Aaron
http://www.Axistive.com – Assistive Technology News Portal