RAISE chooses BK, Kode and Elif Lab to realize the project “Anchemé: technologies for an inclusive smart city”

BK, Kode Cagliari and Elif Lab together kick off the research and development project “Anchemé,” funded on the cascading calls of “RAISE” (Robotics and AI for Socio-economic Empowerment) carried out under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, European Union-funded Mission 4 – NextGenerationEU and part of the Call for Industrial Research and Experimental Development Projects in the domains of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics” issued by IIT.

BK (project leader), in collaboration with Kode and Elif Lab, took on the challenge of Spoke 1 to realize accessible and inclusive urban environments and services (CNR). The three experts in the development of complex IT systems have combined their skills and experience in the use of Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Vision, and Virtual Simulation and Augmented Reality applications to create a project that will use the most innovative technologies for the benefit of society. The project aims to improve urban services to ensure accessibility for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

The ‘Anchemé’ project aims to improve the usability of urban services, applying its solutions first of all in Genoa and Cagliari. Its goal is to foster the inclusion of citizens with motor, cognitive, sensory, and cultural deficits by making the services of the ‘Smart City’ ecosystem more accessible.

Using advanced 3D simulation techniques, semantic computer vision, path optimization algorithms, and geo-processing tools, the project will achieve this goal by developing an innovative platform consisting of two tools:

• TRY is a 3D virtual system for immersive training and exercises in domestic and urban scenarios. The platform is designed to increase self-awareness and self-efficacy for a subsequent action phase

• PLAY is a system that utilizes advanced computer vision and Augmented Reality technologies to support and accompany users in the urban context, facilitating access to primary services and cultural contexts.

Both systems exchange information that is collected, harmonized, aggregated, and managed by the RAISE Urban Data Platform. This platform serves as a focal point for the development of interactive and contextually responsive technologies.

To ensure successful application design and early testing, the partnership will rely on discussions with RAISE Affiliates, including the Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Other stakeholders will also be involved in developing applications suitable for the categories identified as early targets:

• Compagnia delle Opere Solidarity Center of Genoa, which focuses on activities for the elderly and people with autism spectrum disorders;

• Coop L’Altro Sole in Genoa, that provides activities for partially self-sufficient adults with sensory and motor impairments;

• Whable, a startup from Cagliari, offering services for people with disabilities, the elderly, caregivers, and new parents.

BK’s Francesco Lupi comments : “This strategic synergy with the stakeholders will strengthen the design of the applications, ensuring a targeted and customized approach for each identified category. We’re sure that together we will find the right key to enhance the services of the ‘smart-city’. We’re produ to contribute with our project to make the city of Genoa an example and a guide for urban inclusiveness as of now”.

Adds Andrea Zedda, co-founder of Kode: “By developing enabling solutions for urban services, technology is transforming town centers into ‘smart-cities’ by providing enabling solutions for urban services. This transformation benefits all citizens, especially the most vulnerable, by increasing engagement and interaction through the use of new digital technologies”.

Paola Bonesu from Elif Lab confirms: “In line with the objectives of the Innovation Challenge, Anchemé’s overall goal is to reduce and break down barriers to social inclusion by providing a set of innovative tools that use cutting-edge technologies to create value for individual citizens and society as a whole. By developing solutions that enhance the self-awareness and self-efficacy of individuals, we encourage their active involvement and participation.

“Being part of the Anchemé project is a unique opportunity to realize our vision of an inclusive future,” says Marco Altea, founder of Whable. – “Through our digital platform, we are enabling people with disabilities, the elderly, caregivers and new parents to consult and make suggestions on public routes and places, ensuring their effective accessibility. This will help make Cagliari a model of inclusion, guaranteeing equal access to spaces and services”.