Schaffhausen - Photognosis is developing a camera system that can be used in autonomous buses to analyze whether a passenger has fallen over and requires medical assistance. Thanks to Swiss Transit Lab, the start-up has been able to test its technology in real environments.

In 2019, George Themelis founded his start-up Photognosis in Schaffhausen. The Greek-born entrepreneur was very happy with his choice of location in the Greater Zurich Area, as he explained in an article with Economic Promotion Canton of Schaffhausen. Among other aspects, he really appreciates the short pathways to the authorities and decision-makers. “Here, I am George and not just a number”, he states. Moreover, Switzerland has a reputation for top quality, which helps him to market his products.

Themelis has developed various camera solutions. One of his cameras is, for example, used in medical applications, supporting surgeons during operations. The start-up is now focusing on a camera system that can be integrated within autonomous vehicles. The technology will allow anonymized live recordings to be evaluated in real time. For example, if a person takes a fall, the system can call for help immediately.

In Schaffhausen, Themelis is now able to test his technology in a real environment thanks to Swiss Transit Labs. The center of expertise offers testing and application possibilities for smart mobility solutions. Its previous projects also include an autonomous bus route, which has been bringing passengers from Schaffhausen train station to Rhine Falls for around two years already.

“The fact that I as an entrepreneur am able to sit around a table and discuss ideas with an established company like Swiss Transit Labs is a huge advantage for my company offering genuine value-added”, Themelis comments.

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