Artificial Intelligence Powered App for Currency Detection for the Visually Impaired

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

We will develop an AI-powered app for currency recognition, ensuring independence in financial transactions for the visually impaired while addressing some of the social impacts of Project Catalyst.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependencies

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

The AI-powered currency recognition app project will indeed be fully open source. We are committed to fostering collaboration and transparency within the community. The codebase of the app will be available under the GNU General Public License (GPL), ensuring that it remains open and accessible to all interested parties. Throughout the entire lifecycle of the project, including development, testing, and deployment phases, the codebase will be hosted on a publicly accessible repository, allowing for contributions, feedback, and scrutiny from the community. We believe in the value of open source principles in driving innovation and promoting inclusivity, and we are dedicated to upholding these principles in our project.

[METADATA] SDG rating

>> SDG SELECTION:

• SDG goals:
• End poverty in all its forms everywhere
• Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
• Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
• Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
• Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

• SDG subgoals:
• By 2030, eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere, currently measured as people living on less than $1.25 a day
• Strengthen the capacity of domestic financial institutions to encourage and expand access to banking, insurance and financial services for all
• Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and, by 2030, significantly raise industry’s share of employment and gross domestic product, in line with national circumstances, and double its share in least developed countries

• Key Performance Indicator (KPI):
• Proportion of the population living below the international poverty line by sex, age, employment status and geographic location (urban/rural)
• (a) Number of commercial bank branches per 100,000 adults and (b) number of automated teller machines (ATMs) per 100,000 adults
• Manufacturing value added as a proportion of GDP and per capita
• Manufacturing employment as a proportion of total employment
• Proportion of adults (15 years and older) with an account at a bank or other financial institution or with a mobile-money-service provider

#proposertoolsdg

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our proposed solution is an AI-powered app designed to address the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in identifying currency denominations.

Perceiving the problem: Visually impaired individuals often encounter difficulties in distinguishing between different currency notes, hindering their ability to independently manage finances and engage in everyday transactions. We recognize the importance of providing accessible solutions to promote financial independence and inclusivity.

Approach rationale: We have chosen to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to develop an app that accurately recognizes currency denominations. AI offers advanced capabilities in image recognition, enabling our app to efficiently identify and differentiate between various currency notes. This approach ensures a reliable and accessible solution for the visually impaired community.

Engagement: Our project will engage both visually impaired individuals and stakeholders in the accessibility and assistive technology communities. By actively involving end-users in the development process through user testing and feedback sessions, we aim to create an app that meets their specific needs and preferences.

Impact demonstration: We will demonstrate the impact of our solution through rigorous testing and evaluation processes. This will include assessing the app's accuracy in currency recognition, its usability and accessibility features, and its overall effectiveness in promoting financial independence for visually impaired users.

Uniqueness and beneficiaries: What sets our solution apart is its focus on combining cutting-edge AI technology with a clear social impact objective. The visually impaired community will directly benefit from increased independence in financial transactions, while stakeholders in the accessibility and assistive technology fields will benefit from the innovative application of AI in addressing real-world challenges. This aligns with Cardano's vision of fostering innovation and inclusivity within its ecosystem, making our project important to the Cardano community.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

The positive impact of our project on the wider Cardano community lies in its promotion of inclusivity, innovation, and social responsibility. By developing an AI-powered currency recognition app for visually impaired individuals, we contribute to the broader goal of making Cardano technology accessible and beneficial to diverse user groups.

The success of our project will bring value to the Cardano community in several ways:

1. Increased Accessibility: Our app will enhance accessibility for visually impaired individuals, demonstrating Cardano's commitment to inclusivity and social impact.
2. Innovation Showcase: The application of AI technology in addressing real-world challenges showcases Cardano's innovative spirit and its potential for driving positive change.
3. Community Engagement: By actively involving the visually impaired community in the development process and gathering feedback, we foster a sense of community engagement and collaboration within the Cardano ecosystem.

We will measure the impact of our project through both quantitative and qualitative metrics:

1. Quantitative Metrics: This may include the number of downloads and active users of the app, as well as feedback gathered through user surveys and analytics data on app usage patterns.
2. Qualitative Metrics: We will assess the app's effectiveness in promoting financial independence and improving quality of life for visually impaired users through qualitative feedback and testimonials.

To share our outputs and opportunities resulting from the project, we will engage in various dissemination activities:

1. Community Presentations: We will organize presentations at the various regional Townahlls including the main townhall to showcase our project's outcomes and discuss its significance.
2. Online Platforms: We will share project updates, insights, and success stories through Cardano's official communication channels, including forum.cardano.org, social media, Cardano Spot portal, and newsletters.
3. Collaboration Opportunities: We will actively seek collaborations with other projects and stakeholders within the Cardano ecosystem to explore synergies and potential integration opportunities.

Sharing our outputs and engaging with the wider Cardano community, we aim to inspire further innovation and collaboration while demonstrating the positive impact of technology on social inclusion and accessibility.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

We have a strong capability to deliver our project with high levels of trust and accountability, supported by our team's expertise, experience, and commitment to transparency.

Our team consists Cardano ambassador, seasoned professionals with backgrounds in software development, machine learning, accessibility, and project management. We have successfully delivered similar projects in the past, demonstrating our ability to navigate complex technical challenges while prioritizing user needs and social impact.

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will undertake the following steps:

1. Technical Feasibility Assessment: We will conduct a thorough technical feasibility study to evaluate the viability of leveraging AI technology for currency recognition. This will involve assessing the availability of relevant datasets, the performance of existing AI models, and the computational resources required for model training and deployment.
2. User Engagement and Validation: We will actively engage with the visually impaired community to gather insights, feedback, and validation on our proposed solution. This will ensure that our app meets the specific needs and preferences of the end-users, enhancing its usability and effectiveness.
3. Pilot Testing: Before full-scale deployment, we will conduct pilot testing of the app to validate its functionality, accuracy, and accessibility features. This will involve collaborating with a select group of visually impaired individuals to gather real-world feedback and identify any potential issues or areas for improvement.
4. Financial Management and Transparency: We are committed to managing funds responsibly and transparently. To ensure accountability, we will establish clear budgetary guidelines, track expenses meticulously, and provide regular updates to the community on the use of funds. Additionally, we will make financial records and reports readily accessible to stakeholders for review and scrutiny.

Our track record of successful project delivery, combined with our dedication to user-centric design, community engagement, and financial transparency, positions us as the best-suited team to deliver this project with trust and accountability. We are confident in our ability to execute our proposed solution effectively and responsibly, bringing tangible benefits to the Cardano community and beyond.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Research and Development Phase:

• Complete research on existing currency recognition technologies and datasets
• Develop a prototype of the AI model for currency recognition

Acceptance Criteria:

Comprehensive Review: A thorough review of existing literature, research papers, and patents related to currency recognition technologies is conducted.

Technology Evaluation: Evaluation of different currency recognition technologies, including machine learning, computer vision, and pattern recognition techniques, is completed.

Machine Learning Platform Setup and Model Training:

• Set up the machine learning platform for currency recognition and gather diverse datasets of various currencies.
• Train the AI model using the collected datasets to ensure accurate currency recognition.

Acceptance Criteria: The machine learning platform is configured, and the AI model achieves high accuracy in identifying various currency denominations after training.

App Development Phase:

• Develop the user interface and accessibility features of the app.
• Integrate the AI model into the app and optimize for performance.

Acceptance Criteria: App interface is intuitive, accessible, and provides seamless integration with the AI model.

Testing and Validation Phase and Report Writing:

• Conduct alpha testing with a small group of visually impaired individuals to gather feedback .
• Address feedback and iterate on the app design and functionality.
• Compile a comprehensive report summarizing the project's objectives, methodology, key findings, and outcomes
• Prepare a presentation showcasing the app's features, impact, and user feedback for presentation at Cardano townhalls or community events

Acceptance Criteria:

• Alpha testing identifies any usability issues or bugs, and necessary improvements are implemented.
• The project report is completed and includes detailed documentation of the research, development, testing, and deployment phases.
• The presentation effectively communicates the app's significance, demonstrating its impact on promoting financial inclusivity for visually impaired individuals.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Daniel D. Lezu: Product Designs

Cardano Ambassador

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-david-lezu-7ba04b24/

X: https://twitter.com/ddlezu

I am a multifaceted individual with a strong background in technology and a deep commitment to the Cardano ecosystem. Holding a diploma in Software Engineering, a Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, and a Master's Degree in Cybersecurity, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Additionally, my proficiency as a smart contract developer further strengthens my technical capabilities.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated my ability to deliver impactful projects, having developed multiple websites that showcase my skills and creativity. These projects include cardanoimpacthub.com, catalystafrica.org, wada.org, afrixx.io, etc.

In addition to my technical prowess, I serve as the Programs Manager for the Catalyst Africa Townhall, a bi-weekly event that brings together Blockchain Enthusiasts within the Cardano Community. This role allows me to engage with the community, foster collaboration, and drive initiatives that promote the growth and adoption of Cardano in Africa.

Furthermore, I possess rich experience in property management and regulations, which provides valuable insights into the real-world applications of blockchain technology, particularly in the realm of property rentals. My diverse experience equips me with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to our project's success.

Oluwatobiloba I. Ijaduola: Backend Developer

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oluwatobiloba-ijaduola-395191141/

I am a dedicated software developer with a focus on web and mobile application development. My journey began at BlueCrest University College, where I earned a BSc.IT degree and participated in hackathons, refining my problem-solving skills and collaborative spirit. I was honored with the Best Innovation Award at the MTN Apps Challenge version 2, recognizing my excellence in creating innovative solutions.

My professional journey spans diverse roles, starting as a Lab Technician intern and later transitioning to lecturing at BlueCrest University College. Teaching ignited my passion for mentoring, leading me to industry roles such as Software Engineer at Ayiyilabs. Freelancing opportunities further expanded my practical skills, with notable projects including the development of a healthcare management system for a local clinic, which significantly improved patient care and operational efficiency.

In 2021, I served as Center Manager at SIIMT College's, where I led a team of instructors and administrative staff, overseeing day-to-day operations and driving strategic initiatives. This leadership experience honed my management and communication abilities, and I was recognized with the Outstanding Leadership Award for my contributions.

Currently, I continue to lecture at universities and IT institutions, while freelancing and managing my personal training website. I am actively involved in community initiatives, including organizing tech workshops for underprivileged youth and contributing to open-source projects. I am committed to continuous learning and hold certifications in technologies, constantly seeking to expand my knowledge and skills to deliver innovative solutions.

Driven by a love for learning and a passion for innovation, I am dedicated to empowering individuals in their technological endeavors and making a positive impact in the tech community.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Here's a breakdown of the proposed budget for the project:

Research and Development Phase: $Ada 5000

• Literature Review: for access to research papers and publications.
• Dataset Acquisition: for purchasing diverse datasets of various currencies.
• Software Tools: for software licenses and tools for data analysis and modeling.

App Development Phase: $Ada 20000

• Development Tools: for software development kits and tools for app development.
• App Developers: The frontend and Backend Developers.
• Accessibility Testing: for accessibility testing tools and services.

Testing and Validation Phase: $Ada 5000

• Alpha Testing: for recruiting and compensating participants for alpha testing.
• Beta Testing: for incentives and compensations for beta testers.

Pilot Deployment Phase: $Ada 10000

• Server Costs: for hosting the app during the pilot deployment phase.
• Outreach and Promotion: for marketing and promotional materials to raise awareness about the app.

Full-Scale Deployment Phase:$Ada 5000

• App Store Fees: for app store registration and listing fees.
• Community Engagement: for organizing workshops and presentations to engage with the community.

Final Milestone - Report Writing and Showcasing Outcome: $Ada 5000

• Documentation: for preparing and formatting the project report.
• Presentation Materials: for creating visual aids and materials for the presentation.

Total Budget: $Ada 50,000

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The cost of the project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem through its strategic allocation towards achieving significant social impact and technological innovation.

1. Strategic Allocation: The costs listed are proportional to the scope and complexity of the project, ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to each stage of development. For instance, expenses for dataset acquisition and software tools are essential investments to enable the development of a robust and accurate AI-powered app for currency recognition. Similarly, costs for testing, deployment, and community engagement activities reflect the importance of ensuring usability, accessibility, and adoption of the app within the target user community.
2. Social Impact: The project aims to address a pressing societal need by empowering visually impaired individuals with a tool that enhances their financial independence and inclusion. The value derived from improving the quality of life and autonomy for this community far outweighs the monetary costs incurred in developing and deploying the app.
3. Technological Innovation: By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI and machine learning, the project demonstrates Cardano's commitment to fostering innovation within its ecosystem. The investment in research, development, and testing reflects a dedication to delivering a high-quality solution that showcases the capabilities of Cardano technology and contributes to its broader goals of accessibility and inclusivity.
4. Cost Justification: The costs outlined in the budget are based on careful consideration of market rates for relevant services, such as dataset acquisition, software tools, and testing. While some expenses may seem high, they are justified by the need to ensure the project's success and long-term sustainability. Additionally, the budget includes provisions for transparency, accountability, and community engagement, further enhancing the value proposition of the project within the Cardano ecosystem.

In summary, the cost of the project represents value for money by strategically allocating resources to achieve significant social impact, fostering technological innovation, and ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the project lifecycle.