Deer are not only beautiful and majestic creatures but can also pose a significant danger to drivers on the road. Recognizing this issue, a group of four high-school girls from STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado have taken on the challenge of developing an innovative solution to help prevent wildlife-related accidents.
Project Deer, as the group is called, has set out to create a small device that can alert drivers to the presence of deer and other wildlife faster than the human eye can detect. This technology has the potential to save countless lives and reduce the number of collisions involving animals on the road.
The team, consisting of Siddhi Singh, Dhriti Sinha, Bri Scoville, and Robyn “RJ” Ballheim, has already received recognition for their efforts by winning the state’s $12,000 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow prize. This funding will enable them to further develop and build a working prototype of their device.
Their device is designed to be an aftermarket attachment that can be mounted on any vehicle. Using a thermal camera system, the device will be able to detect wildlife such as deer, elk, bear, moose, and small mammals. The system will then alert the driver through an LED light, providing crucial information to help avoid potential collisions.
The technology behind the device involves two main components: the camera and the processor. The camera will capture multiple images per second, which will be processed by a machine-learning model to identify wildlife in the vicinity. This information will then trigger a response to alert the driver of any potential danger.
One of the key advantages of this aftermarket device is its affordability. With an estimated cost of $1,000 to $2,000, including a special $500 chip built for AI models, the device offers a cost-effective solution compared to the expensive in-dash pedestrian detection technology found in luxury vehicles. Additionally, it is a more budget-friendly alternative to the stationary warning devices currently in place along Colorado’s roads and highways.
The team’s teacher, Chacon, has been instrumental in guiding and supporting the students in their project. Despite the male-dominated fields of automotive and tech sectors, these young innovators have shown incredible determination and creativity in tackling a pressing issue that affects both drivers and wildlife.
As they continue to refine their prototype and conduct testing at highway speeds and in nature preserves, Project Deer is paving the way for a new generation of innovators who are not afraid to tackle complex challenges. Their dedication and passion for making a positive impact on road safety are truly inspiring and serve as a reminder of the power of innovation and collaboration in solving real-world problems.
The Vision Behind Project Deer
The inspiration behind Project Deer stems from the team’s desire to address a pressing issue that affects both humans and wildlife. By developing a device that can detect wildlife on the road, the team hopes to reduce the number of accidents involving animals and prevent unnecessary harm to both drivers and animals.
Siddhi Singh, one of the team members, shared her thoughts on the project, stating, “We wanted to create something that could make a real difference in people’s lives. By alerting drivers to the presence of wildlife, we hope to prevent accidents and save lives.”
The team’s vision goes beyond just developing a device; they aim to create a solution that can be easily implemented and accessible to all drivers. With their innovative approach and dedication to the project, Project Deer is poised to make a significant impact on road safety.
The Importance of Innovation in Road Safety
Road safety is a critical issue that affects millions of people around the world. With the increasing number of vehicles on the road and the growing population of wildlife, the risk of accidents involving animals is on the rise.
Innovative solutions like the one being developed by Project Deer are essential in addressing this issue and reducing the number of accidents on the road. By leveraging technology and creativity, these young innovators are demonstrating the power of innovation in creating safer roads for everyone.
The development of the device by high school students is a testament to the potential of young minds to make a positive impact on society. Their dedication, passion, and ingenuity serve as an inspiration to others and highlight the importance of supporting and nurturing young innovators in their pursuit of creating a better world.
In conclusion, the efforts of Project Deer in developing a deer avoidance AI technology are commendable and reflect the potential of young innovators to drive positive change in society. By harnessing the power of technology and collaboration, these students are paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future on the roads.
