Grant: Idea to Innovation

Navigating inside big infrastructures such as airports, train stations, hospitals, shopping malls, and large supermarkets has always been challenging, specifically for first-time visitors. Classic, yet inefficient, indoor navigation solutions include directory maps and information boards. Indoor navigation can be made intuitive and powerful with augmented reality (AR). By showing virtual guides rendered on physical space through the view of a smartphone, users can be directed point to point more naturally than by comparing a map to their immediate surroundings. AR navigation is an innovative solution that works at users' perspective and can be utilized for indoor (and outdoor) solutions. Our system consists of a mobile component (e.g., smartphone app) which overlays real-time intelligence in the form of directions and localized information on top of the reality seen through the camera of mobile device (e.g., smartphone). Having the first-person perspective, it is no longer necessary to match a map to the real world to get to a destination. Furthermore, any language burden is lifted and users can independently navigate to their destination. This tool is suitable for people with disabilities by guiding them through wheelchair accessible routes using voice help and haptic technology. Moreover, this tool offers fast and safe evacuation of large public spaces in case of an emergency.We have developed an AI-based proactive multi-objective routing algorithm; for instance, crowded places can beavoided by predicting occupancy and users can be guided to their destinations through routes that maximize social distancing. We can introduce a localized marketing system which advertizes different amenities at the airport, such as shops and restaurants, in the format of an AR content while navigating to the destination. We can also partner with other companies and suggest short city tours if the user has a long layover. The backend server will handle all the aforementioned processes which can be coupled with the internal management system of the airports to inform transit passengers about their next gate.