Saanjh: Passive Audiovisual Regulation Intervention for Neurodiverse Populations

Saanjh is an AI-enabled assistive system designed to support individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorders, and other neurodiverse conditions. Many individuals with these conditions experience sensory sensitivities, where environmental stimuli such as noise, light, or visual motion can trigger anxiety, stress, or behavioral dysregulation. Traditional interventions often rely on human observation and manual adjustments to the environment, which may not always respond quickly enough to prevent sensory overload. Saanjh addresses this challenge by using artificial intelligence to monitor environmental conditions and regulate sensory inputs in real time.

The system operates by continuously analyzing audiovisual stimuli in the user’s environment. Sensors capture information about sound intensity, lighting levels, and visual activity, which are then processed using AI models trained to detect patterns associated with sensory stress. When the system detects potentially overwhelming stimuli, it automatically initiates interventions designed to restore a calm and manageable environment.

These interventions may include adjusting lighting conditions, filtering certain sound frequencies, or introducing calming audiovisual cues. For example, if the system detects high noise levels that may trigger discomfort for a neurodiverse user, it can activate noise reduction mechanisms or provide soothing background audio. Similarly, sudden visual stimuli can be moderated through lighting adjustments or calming visual displays.

Saanjh is designed as a passive intervention system, meaning that it operates automatically without requiring constant user input. This design is particularly important for individuals who may find it difficult to communicate their sensory discomfort verbally. By detecting early signs of sensory overload, the system can intervene before the situation escalates into distress or behavioral disruption.

The system is also valuable in environments such as therapy centers, classrooms, and homes where neurodiverse individuals spend significant time. Caregivers and educators can use the system to better understand environmental triggers and adapt spaces to be more inclusive and supportive.

Saanjh also contributes to the broader field of AI-driven assistive technologies by demonstrating how machine learning can support emotional and sensory well-being. By combining environmental sensing with intelligent regulation mechanisms, the platform offers a scalable approach to improving quality of life for neurodiverse individuals.

For additional context and detailed documentation of this use case, please refer to pages 53-55 in the attached Casebook.