AI Stop Sign Cameras | Obvio - Safer Roads with AI

Improving Pedestrian Safety with Smart Technology

Streets across the United States present significant risks to those on foot. A California-based startup, Obvio, headquartered in San Carlos, is developing a novel approach to address this issue through the deployment of cameras at stop signs. The company’s founders assert that this solution will not result in widespread, intrusive surveillance.

Addressing Surveillance Concerns

This assertion is particularly noteworthy given recent criticism leveled against companies like Flock, whose license plate-reading cameras have been identified as tools enabling excessive governmental oversight.

Ali Rehan and Dhruv Maheshwari, the founders of Obvio, are confident in their ability to establish a successful enterprise while avoiding such problematic practices. Their product has been intentionally designed with built-in limitations regarding surveillance and data sharing, demonstrating their commitment to responsible technology use.

Securing Funding for Expansion

Their vision has attracted substantial investment. Obvio has recently concluded a $22 million Series A funding round, spearheaded by Bain Capital Ventures. These funds will be utilized to broaden the company’s operational reach beyond its initial five pilot cities located in Maryland.

The Genesis of Obvio

Rehan and Maheshwari initially connected while employed at Motive, a firm specializing in dashboard cameras for the trucking sector. During their time there, Maheshwari shared with TechCrunch that they observed a concerning trend: “a substantial number of non-commercial vehicles exhibit poor driving habits.”

Further investigation into road safety statistics revealed a troubling reality. Not only were streets and crosswalks becoming increasingly hazardous for pedestrians, but the U.S. was also lagging behind other developed nations in terms of traffic enforcement.

A Global Perspective on Road Safety

“Many other countries have effectively addressed this issue,” Maheshwari explained. “They employ speed camera technology and foster a strong culture of driving safety. The U.S., unfortunately, ranks among the worst in terms of road safety when compared to other modern nations.”

A Holistic Approach to Road Safety

Maheshwari and Rehan undertook extensive research on road safety, studying relevant literature and attending industry conferences. They identified three primary strategies commonly employed: education, engineering improvements, and law enforcement.

However, they perceived these approaches as often being implemented in isolation. Measuring the effectiveness of educational campaigns can be challenging. Infrastructure modifications, such as installing roundabouts, can be time-consuming and costly. And consistent law enforcement presence at every intersection is impractical.

Combining Strategies for Maximum Impact

The founders believed a more integrated approach held significant promise.

The Obvio System: Design and Functionality

The resulting innovation is a visually prominent pylon, frequently brightly colored, equipped with a solar-powered camera. This system is designed for easy installation near intersections and is engineered to be both affordable and straightforward to deploy.

The integrated artificial intelligence is trained to identify serious traffic violations. The company’s website also indicates its capability to detect speeding, crosswalk infringements, illegal turns, unsafe lane changes, and distracted driving. Upon detecting an infraction, the system cross-references the vehicle’s license plate with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles database.

Verification and Citation Process

The accuracy of the violation and the license plate information are then verified by Obvio personnel or contracted staff before being forwarded to law enforcement for review and potential citation issuance.

Revenue Model and Community Engagement

Obvio provides the technology to municipalities at no cost, generating revenue from the resulting citations. The specific allocation of citation revenue between Obvio and the local governments will vary based on state regulations.

Recognizing the potential for incentivizing increased citations, Rehan and Maheshwari emphasize their commitment to addressing the most dangerous driving behaviors and fostering positive relationships with the communities they serve.

Prioritizing Community Trust and Behavior Change

“Automated enforcement should complement, not replace, community involvement and support,” Maheshwari stated. “The objective is to utilize these cameras to warn and deter the most reckless drivers, thereby cultivating widespread community support and encouraging safer driving habits.”

Building trust with cities and their residents is paramount, according to Maheshwari.

Technological Safeguards Against Misuse

The system’s architecture also incorporates features designed to limit the potential for misuse by law enforcement.

Footage captured by the Obvio cameras is processed and stored locally on the device. Only when a violation is detected is the footage transmitted externally. All other footage of vehicles and pedestrians is automatically deleted after approximately 12 hours. (The municipalities retain ownership of the footage and have remote access.)

While this does not entirely eliminate the possibility of surveillance, it significantly reduces the risk.

Investment Rationale

This focus on responsible technology development was a key factor in Bain Capital Ventures partner Ajay Agarwal’s decision to invest in Obvio.

“While maximizing short-term profits through questionable practices is tempting, it ultimately limits the company’s potential for widespread adoption and creates opposition,” he explained to TechCrunch. “Exceptional founders are willing to forgo potential revenue streams to remain true to their core mission.”