Innovative AI and audio technology used to combat gender violence: Researcher Esther Rituerto’s UC3M4Safety project shows promising results

Researcher Esther Rituerto from Spain has been recognized for her innovative use of audio technology and artificial intelligence in preventing and combating gender violence. Her research focuses on using speech and acoustic signals to detect when a woman may be in danger, by analyzing the fear in her voice and surrounding sounds such as footsteps, blows, and breaking objects.

Rituerto’s work, conducted as part of the UC3M4Safety project at the Carlos III University of Madrid, aims to develop electronic devices that can detect fear in victims of gender violence through their voice or vital signs. These devices, such as pendants with microphones and bracelets to monitor biological markers, are connected to smartphones that can alert emergency services and the police in case of danger. Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in analyzing the data and triggering automated responses to help protect victims.

The Government Delegation against Gender Violence in Spain emphasizes the significance of Rituerto’s research and its potential impact on improving protection systems for victims of gender violence. Her work has already shown promising results in detecting signs of abuse through voice analysis, with an accuracy rate of 73%. In addition to her work on gender violence prevention, Rituerto is involved in research on using artificial intelligence to detect mental illnesses through brain imaging. Her innovative use of technology in addressing social issues demonstrates the power of AI in enhancing protection and support for vulnerable populations.