Staff from the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, together with a blind test subject, unveiled an AI Suitcase in Tokyo on Monday that helps visually impaired people avoid obstacles and travel safely.
“I have always wished there was such a robot-like thing that could give me directions, so I am very glad I was able to experience it this time,” said Amuro, a tester.
The woman can be seen walking with the AI Suitcase. Footage also features Amuro crossing streets with her hand on the AI Suitcase. Among other features, the device also recognised train platforms and warned Amuro of them so that she could change her direction in time.
At first glance, the AI Suitcase looked like an ordinary suitcase but was equipped with sensors, artificial intelligence, and numerous motors.
“AI technology is used to recognise pedestrians and safely move them away or stop. Also, to interact with the AI Suitcase, voice commands are used,” said Takagi.
The developer of the AI Suitcase was Chieko Asakawa, the director of the museum, who is completely blind. The AI Suitcase was described as an autonomous navigation robot developed to help the blind or people with visual impairments to remain mobile.