An innovative assistive device integrating AI-based sign language detection and physical Braille display for the deaf-blind community.
KIBAR-AI stands for "Kenali Isyarat, Braille Automatik Respons" (Sign Recognition, Automatic Braille Response). It is a real-time AI-powered system that detects hand gestures through a camera and translates them into physical Braille patterns via a solenoid-based actuator grid, controlled by an Arduino board.
KIBAR-AI aims to bridge communication between deaf and blind individuals — a population often left behind by mainstream assistive technologies.
- 🎯 Real-Time Sign Detection using YOLOv11
- 🤖 Arduino-Controlled Braille Actuation
- 🧩 Seamless AI–Hardware Integration
- 🦾 Tactile Feedback for Enhanced Accessibility
- 🖨️ 3D Printed Hardware Casing
├── model/ # Trained YOLOv11 models
├── arduino/ # Arduino source code (.ino)
├── data/ # Dataset of hand gestures and Braille mappings
├── scripts/ # Python scripts (real-time detection, serial communication)
├── assets/ # Images, icons, diagrams
└── README.md # This fileInstall the required Python packages:
pip install ultralytics opencv-python pyserialUpload the Arduino code to your board (e.g., Arduino UNO) using PlatformIO or Arduino IDE.
python model.pyEnsure your webcam is connected and Arduino is properly communicating over the correct COM port.
| Objective | Achieved |
|---|---|
| Real-time gesture recognition | ✅ |
| Braille actuation via solenoids | ✅ |
| Arduino & Python serial integration | ✅ |
| Custom dataset model training | ✅ |
| Inclusive communication | ✅ |
- YOLOv11 – Real-time object detection
- OpenCV – Image capture and processing
- Arduino C++ – Actuator control
- PySerial – Communication bridge
- 3D Design Tools – Casing and mounting
“Imagine a deaf and blind person trying to communicate in a crowd — KIBAR-AI provides a private, silent, and tactile language channel.”
- 🔄 Real-Time Conversion: Gestures to Braille in seconds.
- ⚙️ Hardware-Software Synergy: Fully functional device, not just a concept.
- 🧩 Multi-Tech Integration: AI + Arduino + Actuation + 3D Print.
- 🧑🤝🧑 Social Impact: Helps an underserved population.
Project Lead: Nathan Yap Jia De
Institution: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)
Copyright:
📧 nathanyap5352@outlook.com
🔗 LinkedIn | GitHub
"Connecting communication, transcending barriers."
Let’s build an inclusive future — one sign, one dot at a time.
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