Firm wins backing for Knight Rider-like intelligent assistant
IT sounds like the stuff of science fiction – an interactive driving assistant for driverless cars. Think KITT in 1980s TV classic Knight Rider.
Now a Birmingham tech firm has developed a driver aid not unlike David Hasselhoff ’s famous assistant, and it has won financial backing.
Conigital’s artificial intelligence machine is called ‘Gemma Virtual Concierge’ and is designed for the next generation of driverless vehi- cles which are likely to dominate the car marker in decades to come.
Gemma will provide interactive access to travel advice, news, the internet and available services at a driver’s destination.
Conigital is also developing a range of products including a patented 4D tactile map for blind and partially sighted users and a fleet management system.
The company, based at Innovation Birmingham Campus, has been awarded new capital by the Government and innovation agency Innovate UK as part of wider funding round worth £12.6 million.
Chief executive Monique Seth said: “We are very focused on the passenger interaction and their experience while on the journey.
“A lot of our interactive systems have accessibility built into them so that members of the elderly, visually impaired or less abled feel included and are also able to use those functions.
“We work closely with the Beacon Centre for the Blind Charity and have user groups shaping how we deliver our products.”
Conigital will work closely with a range of partners including Harper Adams University in Shropshire to develop driverless, autonomous vehicles.
The project will also use the latest sensor technology to allow three, low-carbon electric sports vehicles to drive in close formation between Stockport station and Manchester Airport.
Mr Seth added: “Conigital understands that for driverless vehicles to be a success, the involvement of a wide range of organisations is essential, including local and national government, insurance providers, vehicle manufacturers and infrastructure providers.” connected