Innovative Projects Realized

Pose estimation of objects of interest by aerial multirotor drone

Aerial drones have been seeing a rise in popularity in a variety of domains such as shipping, search and rescue operations, and photography due to their ability to carry cameras and other packages through trajectories that avoid ground obstacles or offer an advantageous vantage point, all while allowing the operator to remain at a safe distance from any danger. In this project, the objective is to improve the autonomy of aerial drones performing aerial surveillance. The specific goal of this research is to develop a drone-based system that is capable of determining the pose of objects it detects through it’s camera. Research in AI-based image processing has made the detection and recognition of objects possible with high accuracy. This project intends to implement such an object detection and classification algorithm into a drone system where monitoring of large areas can be done from the air and on the move with the drone’s operator. This project will help to develop drone technology and demonstrate their use in human activities. As a project based in Canada, it will also keep establishing Canada as an aerospace technologies hub.

Coach F.: Aider les citoyens à initier et adopter des meilleures habitudes de gestion de leurs finances!

Code F. Santé financière pour tous?! (Code F.) est une entreprise d’économie sociale qui se donne pour objectifs d’éduquer, accompagner et outiller financièrement les citoyens grâce à des services de coaching financier, des ateliers d’éducation financière ainsi que différents guides afin d’aider ces derniers à gérer leur argent.

Alors, que plus de 85% des Québécois disent souffrir d’anxiété financière (Sondage Centraide, Avril 2023), Code F. développe le projet « Coach F. » qui vise à développer une solution numérique qui va induire un changement de comportement chez les citoyens afin de les amener à adopter des bonnes et saines habitudes de gestion financière (personnelle). Ceci afin de les aider à bâtir une résilience financière et améliorer leur santé financière.

SkinopathyOS & Patient Portal Automation and Data Features

Development of an integrated and unified GetSkinHelp Experience powered by Data & Artificial Intelligence

Health and Innovation Analyst for AHS- Early Innovation Advancement Program

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is a large provincial health authority serving the health needs of the population of Alberta with a mission to provide patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Inclusion of technology innovations within the system and in the community can support AHS’ mission. The challenge, however, is to provide evidence-based evaluation of new technologies to ensure they are safe, effective, appropriate, acceptable, accessible and efficient, among other qualities. The Innovation and Business Intelligence (IBI) Department within AHS has been working to achieve an evaluation framework where decisions can be made for potential adoption. The project proposed will assist the IBI team on the creation of processes for both a needs assessment and evidence-based evaluation framework.

AHS has recently been confirmed as a Beachhead with the new envisAGE program through MEDTEQ+ and AGEWELL to assist with improving the quality of life for older adults and/or their caregivers through introduction of AgeTech. In this role, the IBI team will evaluate the clinical effectiveness and implementation feasibility of AgeTech with end users and customer. The focused area of need will be on aging in place, which is defined as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” The IBI team, along with the Mitacs intern, will work to create a comprehensive needs assessment and evidence-based evaluation framework to ensure satisfaction by both end users and consumers of the technology.

Business Strategy

The Pyralume Online Streaming Platform project is a strategic product development initiative aimed at redefining the independent cinema experience. This innovative platform serves as a cutting-edge global stage, providing independent filmmakers with an avenue to showcase their exceptional creations to a worldwide audience. The project emphasizes user-centric design and flexibility by offering a range of subscription plans, consolidating platform management for seamless operations. Utilizing cloud-based technology, this project ensures convenient streaming from any location with an internet connection. This product development project is not only dedicated to celebrating independent cinema but also focused on empowering filmmakers through sustainable monetization avenues.

Developing and Coordinating Communications Strategies for Official Plan, Secondary Plans and Community Improvement Plan Review

Policy planning is overseen by the City Planning Department Policy Planning Group with some projects handled by the Special Projects Planning Group. These groups oversee various policy tasks including incorporating Regional and Provincial Planning into the City’s Planning program, developing Official Plan and Secondary Plan policies and undertaking other policy work related to natural heritage, housing and employment. This group also oversees Community Improvement Plan (CIP) programs, heritage and the sign by-law.
To address the significant growth targets the City has, and to address changes in planning policy as well as to ensure new growth is provided in accordance with planning principles and upper level policies and ensure City needs for housing and employment lands are provided, the City is embarking on an ambitious program which currently includes a new Official Plan and 3 Secondary Plans that are currently underway, with 2 further secondary plans to be initiated within the next 2 years. As well the Policy Group are involved in a review of the CIP program review to ensure grants are targeted to meet the City’s needs, and a review of the Sign By-law.
The primary roles of the Planning Student Intern is to develop and implement community engagement strategies on the Official Plan and secondary plans as well as to assist in the CIP program review. The Planning Student is intended to work primarily in the policy division.

Système automatisé de conformité

Le projet vise à concevoir un système informatique en mode Saas (Software as a service) qui permette de réaliser de façon automatique et autonome le diagnostic des processus d’une PME pour vérifier son niveau de conformité à une réglementation, la production de recommandations personnalisées en fonction de l’entreprise, de ses besoins, de ses processus et de son contexte d’affaires, la certification de conformité après l’implémentation des recommandations. Le système comprendra entre autres un système expert, un moteur de modélisation, un outil de mapping des modèles avec les contraintes de la loi ainsi qu’un moteur et une banque de recommandations.

Culture Index Validation and Relationship Analysis: Enhancing Organizational Culture Assessment

This project, a collaborative effort between Saint Mary’s University and Wise Leadership Inc., seeks to address the pressing need for a more evidence-based approach to measuring workplace culture, especially in a post-COVID environment. Wise Leadership Inc., committed to enhancing organizational culture and leadership, faces the challenge of refining their tools and methods for more accurate and actionable culture measurement. The project will employ a multifaceted approach, including validation research, hands-on data collection and survey implementation, and comprehensive data analysis to assess the operational culture index’s impact alongside the culture actualization index. Specifically, data will be collected through an online data collection site (i.e., Prolific). A total of 400 participants from diverse jobs will be invited to participate in the study. Validation research will follow best practices in survey research, ensuring the reliability and validity of the measurement tools. By partnering with a Saint Mary’s University intern, Wise Leadership Inc. gains the expertise and resources needed to elevate their services and provide empirical evidence-driven guidance, enabling them to offer better services. Ultimately, this project aims to improve organizational culture and leadership, building on prior success in creating the Culture Actualization Index and extending the focus to holistically measure culture, fostering more inclusive, collaborative, and growth-oriented workplaces.

Building and Developing AI solutions for Transcription, Translations, Dubbing and Distribution of content globally.

Aview is working on an innovative project to develop advanced software tools to enhance content accessibility and cultural relevance for global audiences. By creating a proprietary dubbing software, a content censorship tool, and an automated distribution platform, we aim to break down language and cultural barriers, allowing creators to reach wider audiences seamlessly. This initiative will expand Aview’s market reach and empower content creators to share their stories globally, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

Development of Processes to Expedite Development Approval and Construction

Development approvals is overseen by the City Planning Department Current Planning Group. This group provides review of planning issues related to directing, managing and developing land uses according to the City of Niagara Falls Official Plan and Zoning By-law. Development is an on-going project within the City which involves pre-consultation, application, review (which may or may not have an open house, public meeting, financial agreements) up to the final approval. The process can vary from short and long timelines and can be either simple or complex. All this work is a requirement prior to any development being able to receive a building permit to construct whether it is for residential or commercial.
The City faces challenges in the processing of development applications in an efficient way. In particular, the City needs to ensure necessary housing projects, including affordable housing, are developed while maintaining planning principles and conformity to Provincial, Regional and City policies.
To ensure these projects are delivered, the City is working on initiatives to ensure applications are processed efficiently and housing is delivered. The role of the Planning Student Intern is to develop and complete initiatives to ensure necessary projects and housing are realized. The Planning Student is intended to work primarily in the development division.

Hyperspectral Intelligence Go to Market Plan Development

HII is at an inflection point in their growth. Upon raising sufficient capital, the organization would like to expand their market share
in new and existing markets. The company requires a well thought out go to market plan to set the path forward in their sales
growth. This plan will include in-depth market and business culture analysis, encompassing market size, customer profiles, buying
behaviors, business etiquette, negotiation styles, and target customer identification for one or more countries. Following this, a
sales approach (direct or indirect) recommendation will be made, coupled with logistical considerations for international trade and
equipment storage. A comprehensive marketing strategy tailored to the local culture will be developed, alongside a Go-to-Market
(GTM) budget in CAD and ROI estimates. The project also involves a detailed examination of legal and regulatory considerations,
including their implications on servicing and rental contracts, as well as tax considerations, proposing the most tax-efficient business
structure. Finally, the project will address risks, such as non-payment of receivables and IP theft, with mitigation strategies,
potentially involving collaboration with legal or accounting professionals when necessary.

Maiya Mobile Project

Maiya is an AI based intelligent learning assistant developed at Concordia University of Edmonton and is deployed as a web application. The Phase 2 of the project is planned and it will involve developing a forum and an iOS mobile application. Utilizing React Native, the app will seamlessly integrate with the existing Django backend and mirror the functionality of the current web platform, including modules such as Study Buddy, Summarizer, Planner, notifications, and profile management. Emphasis will be placed on a cohesive and intuitive user experience, adhering to best design practices, and ensuring compatibility across various mobile devices.