Hyundai Unveils Innovative Technology for Drivers with Hearing Disabilities

By: Anas Assaf

January 15,2019

2 min read

225

Tags:

Hyundai

hearing disability

driver assistance technology

road safety

innovative technology

Introduction

Hyundai Motor Group has unveiled an innovative technology designed to assist drivers with hearing impairments. This technology converts ambient sounds into visual or tactile alerts, utilizing advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to help them "hear" the traffic around them.

How the Technology Works

This innovative system employs two separate assistance technologies that work in tandem:

Visual sound conversion system.
Tactile sound conversion system.

Both systems use artificial intelligence to analyze external sound patterns. They generate vibrations in the steering wheel and display relevant visual cues in front of the driver to alert them to surrounding events that the systems can detect. The technology also features a multi-colored LED light system on the steering wheel, providing navigational information that is crucial for the driver during their journey.

Additional Features

This technology can:

Alert the driver to the approach of emergency vehicles by recognizing siren sounds.
Generate vibrations in the steering wheel to notify the driver while displaying appropriate graphics in front of them.
Translate data from the vehicle's sensors, such as when reversing, to inform the driver of the distance from obstacles behind them.

Promotional Video

Hyundai showcased this new technology in a promotional video titled "Quiet Taxi," emphasizing not only the technology itself but also the value of "mobility freedom." The video highlights Hyundai's efforts to empower drivers with hearing disabilities to drive freely and safely using cutting-edge innovations. Additionally, Hyundai has developed an application that facilitates communication between passengers and drivers with hearing impairments.

Real-Life Experience

The documentary follows Daiho Lee, who is recognized as the first hearing-impaired taxi driver in Seoul. This father of two recently began working as a taxi driver and faces significant challenges due to his hearing loss. He relies heavily on his vision, leading to difficulties with other drivers, as he cannot hear their horns or sirens. His continuous reliance on sight also results in fatigue that is several times greater than that experienced by regular drivers.