Seeing Machines’ DMS technology is used by car manufacturers around the world and as part of its continued development of safety features, needs the help of Canberrans in real-world situations, to train its AI algorithms that add crucial safety and convenience for all car users.

The company requires families based in and around Canberra to attend its Fyshwick headquarters to participate in a COVID-safe one-hour session. Using their own cars, the volunteers will help refine a feature that identifies who is in a car at any given time. Called ‘Seat Occupancy Detection’, this feature detects whether a seat is occupied or empty and identifies it as a human or an object. The ability to understand if a human is present is key safety data that can automatically enable other safety features like seat belt detection and whether an airbag should be activated.

“Seeing Machines’ DMS technology is vital to improving safety for vehicle occupants and determining the status of driver and passenger seats,” said Paul McGlone, CEO, Seeing Machines. “If a seat is occupied, this feature can identify the difference between a human or an object, and by knowing who or what is in the car, can work automatically with other technology in the vehicle to activate safely and appropriately.

“In addition, identifying the size of a passenger will enable the car’s technology to ensure that airbags are only activated if safe to do so.”

Seeing Machines is seeking families with at least one child who occupies a capsule, car seat or booster seat, to participate in the data collection exercise. In exchange for their time, all participating families will receive a $200 shopping voucher that can be used at a wide range of retail outlets.

The COVID-safe protocols have been carefully designed and implemented to ensure the safety of participants and Seeing Machines’ employees.

A range of daily timeslots are available and can be changed to suit volunteers. For anyone interested in attending, they simply need to email Data Acquisition Team.