+project

Goal

This project was part of my internship at Envision AI at the Hague. The starting point of this project was to design an accessory that improves the of AI glasses and increases accessibility and inclusivity. The main result was the design of the flashlight and on the side exploring other design solutions that improve the usability of the Envision Glasses(EG). The EG are a combination of the Google Glass 2(GG 2) and Envision’s AI-technology.

Background

Envision is known for their  AI technology to improve independence of visually impaired people(VIP). They do that by interpreting visual information and making it accessible for VIP. This means enabling VIP’s to do daily tasks on their own, such as using transportation, shopping in supermarkets, reading letters, recognizing their loved ones, finding their belongings, and a lot more. The VIP’s that use the glasses often already notified that in the dark or with poor lighting conditions  features like, describe scenes, read text and detect colors in the dark did not work. The GG 2 had no flashlight aiding the camera for capturing a clear image when there is no or little light.

Development

The development of the flashlight was divided into two parts: 3D shape that form fits the EG display and the electronics which made possible to turn on/off the flashlight.  In order to develop and test these subsystems, two types of prototypes were created: 3D design prototype and electronics prototype. The 3D design prototype was designed by having the close measurements and the electronics prototype was designed by ordering components and soldering.

User testing

Visiting one of the closest users of Envision a user test is conducted to make sure if the flashlight had a significant impact. Two features were tested: the text feature and color feature. Poorly light environment was tested and also pastel colors were tested. Pastel colors were not easily be recognized due to light and contrast of scene. These tests increased and enhanced the recognition and was definitely aiding the glasses.

Product Architecture

The flashligh(3D) composition shows a battery compartiment, enclosing unit(display), electronics(PCB) and also the LED bead unit. These were connected to an on and off switch on top.

Result

During this project multiple accessories were tested where to me the flashlight stands out the most. Envision AI has taken these ideas with them for a next product development project.