Quinnipiac Team Creates AI Prototype for Accessibility

Published Date : 06/11/2024 

Quinnipiac University students and professors have developed an AI prototype called AccessiMove, which aims to improve accessibility for people with physical disabilities. The team presented their project at the IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference, highlighting the potential of AI in enhancing quality of life. 

Quinnipiac University students and professors have unveiled an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) prototype called AccessiMove, designed to enhance accessibility for individuals with physical disabilities. The project was presented at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ (IEEE) 14th Global Humanitarian Technology Conference on October 23-25.AccessiMove leverages AI face-tracking and gesture recognition to enable easier computer interaction for people with physical limitations. The applications of this technology include operating wheelchairs, facilitating communication between healthcare professionals and patients, and enhancing accessibility in gaming.The idea for AccessiMove was inspired by a former student of computer science professor Chetan Jaiswal, named Sylvia, who is blind. This personal connection motivated Jaiswal to explore ways to make daily life more manageable for individuals with disabilities. Sylvia is now an engineer at Apple Inc., a testament to the potential for innovation in this field.Michael Ruocco, a graduate cybersecurity major, has always had a passion for computers. He wanted to extend this enjoyment to those who might otherwise be unable to access it. The project was initiated through discussions at the annual “Adapted Play” conference, which was created by Jaiswal and occupational therapy professor Karen Majeski in 2022.Jaiswal recruited Jack Duggan, a computer science graduate, and Ruocco from the school of computing and engineering to develop the prototype. Brian O’Neil, an associate professor of computer science at Quinnipiac, also contributed to the project. Majeski joined the team to bring a health science perspective, enhancing the project’s interdisciplinary nature.The prototype's interdisciplinary approach stood out at the IEEE conference. Majeski emphasized, “The invention (of the AccessiMove) is stronger because of the collective knowledge.” Jaiswal agreed, noting that the collaboration across fields was the “best part” of the project.One of the AccessiMove’s key features is its compatibility with built-in or off-the-shelf webcams, making it more accessible for users. O’Neil explained, “When we looked around at what already existed, we found that many of the comparable tools required specialized hardware – a high-end webcam, or an X-Box Kinect.”The conference saw significant interest in AccessiMove, with many attendees curious to learn more. Ruocco shared, “We got a lot of questions for it, so I think that’s a good sign.” Jaiswal added that out of a 40-minute Q&A session after four separate presentations, “probably 32 minutes were Q&A for our work.”The IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference aims to address critical issues for the benefit of resource-constrained and vulnerable populations. Ruocco reflected on his experience, stating, “You can still have fun and be creative while also, like, doing something mundane like computer science.”The team began working on the AccessiMove prototype in the fall of 2023 and filed a U.S. patent for the invention in October. They plan to collaborate with the Hartford Healthcare Center for AI Innovation in Healthcare and Connecticut Innovations to further develop the project. Securing funding is a key step in improving the prototype.Jaiswal acknowledged the dual nature of AI, noting that it “comes with two sides, so good and bad.” He emphasized the importance of using AI for the betterment of everyone. O’Neil recognized some concerns about AI, such as plagiarism and environmental impact, but he has been impressed by his students’ productive use of tools like ChatGPT.O’Neil has developed a new minor in Artificial Intelligence at Quinnipiac, aimed at educating students about AI’s applications and implications. Majeski added that AI is “impressionable” and must be taught the difference between right and wrong. As an educator and healthcare professional, she feels a responsibility to shape AI as a tool to help people. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS):

Q: What is AccessiMove?

A: AccessiMove is an AI prototype developed by Quinnipiac University students and professors. It uses face-tracking and gesture recognition to enhance accessibility for people with physical disabilities, enabling them to interact with computers more easily.

Q: How does AccessiMove work?

A: AccessiMove leverages AI to track facial movements and recognize gestures, allowing users to control computers and other devices without the need for physical input. This makes it particularly useful for individuals with physical limitations.

Q: Who are the key contributors to the AccessiMove project?

A: The key contributors to the AccessiMove project include Jack Duggan, Michael Ruocco, Chetan Jaiswal, Karen Majeski, and Brian O’Neil from Quinnipiac University.

Q: What is the significance of the interdisciplinary approach in the AccessiMove project?

A: The interdisciplinary approach, combining computer science and health science, was crucial in making AccessiMove a robust and effective tool. It allowed the team to address both technical and practical aspects of improving accessibility for people with disabilities.

Q: What are the future plans for the AccessiMove project?

A: The team plans to collaborate with the Hartford Healthcare Center for AI Innovation in Healthcare and Connecticut Innovations to further develop the prototype. Securing funding is a key step in this process. 

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