Robust portable language translator for use in harsh environments

Abstract

Language translator, in particular portable language translator for use in harsh environments such as construction sites or military deployment areas, characterized in that - the device has a shock- and impact-resistant housing with all-round rubber protection, - the housing meets at least protection class IP67 in terms of water and dust resistance, - the device has tactile, physical controls that can also be operated with gloves, - a microphone with wind and structure-borne noise protection and a loud speaker covered by a protective grille are integrated, - a wireless communication unit is provided for connection to cloud-based translation services, - and optionally an offline operating mode is enabled by locally stored language models.

Description

[0001] Language translators in the form of portable electronic devices are well known. They enable real-time translation of spoken language into one or more target languages and are used, among other things, in civilian travel, business conversations, or medical contexts (e.g., US 2018 / 0092846 A1). However, the devices currently available on the market are generally designed for use in controlled environments such as offices, homes, or public facilities. They usually feature sensitive electronic components, touch-sensitive screens, and inadequate mechanical or environmental protection measures.

[0002] Some manufacturers offer so-called "ruggedized" devices, such as robust smartphones with IP protection ratings that can be operated via language translation apps. However, these solutions are usually not specifically tailored to the demands of everyday construction site or military use and therefore have limitations in terms of functionality, reliability, or usability under adverse conditions.

[0003] The invention addresses the problem of providing a language translator specifically designed for operation in harsh environments, particularly on construction sites or in military operations. It should be resistant to shock, water, dust, vibration, and temperature fluctuations, while remaining easy to operate, even while wearing gloves. Furthermore, simple communication between two or more individuals should be possible using one or more devices.

[0004] This problem is solved by a language translator with the features specified in claim 1. The language translator comprises a robust housing with impact and shock protection, is completely waterproof and dustproof according to at least protection class IP67, and features large, tactile controls for use even with gloves or in stressful situations. Speech recognition and output are achieved via a microphone with wind and structure-borne noise protection and a loudspeaker with high output even in noisy environments. A wireless connection unit (e.g., 5G or LTE) enables access to cloud-based translation services, and offline operation with locally stored language models is also provided.

[0005] Furthermore, the invention, according to claim 2, enables the interconnection of multiple devices. This allows either a single device to be used for both voice input and voice output, or the voice input and output functions can be distributed across multiple interconnected devices. This allows bidirectional communication between two or more participants, with the spoken language being translated into the target language and output in real time, comparable to a simultaneously translated telephone conversation.

[0006] A preferred embodiment of the invention is described in more detail below.

[0007] The language translator features a housing made of shock-absorbing, reinforced plastic with an epoxy resin interior. The exterior of the housing is additionally equipped with rubber profiles that provide cushioning in the event of drops onto hard surfaces. The device is waterproof according to IP67, in particular thanks to a circumferential silicone seal in the housing cover and the epoxy resin encapsulation throughout the housing. Rubber plugs are provided for all mandatory external interfaces.

[0008] The microphone is mounted in a shock-isolated mount. The speaker is located in a rear-firing area. Control is via physical buttons, including a push-to-talk button, a language selection button, and volume controls. The buttons are raised and glove-friendly.

[0009] Inside, a mobile processing unit with an ARM processor, local memory (e.g., 16 GB), and software for speech recognition, translation, and voice output is integrated. This software also controls communication with other devices. Communication with external servers and other devices takes place via a 4G module or, if necessary, via Wi-Fi. To improve robustness, a robust display with an additional shatter-proof film is provided; feedback is provided acoustically and via status messages.

[0010] The described language translator enables reliable communication between different language groups, even under extreme environmental conditions. The invention is particularly distinguished by its robust construction, its usability under difficult conditions (e.g., in rain, with gloves, in loud background noise), and its capability for offline operation. Compared to commercially available civilian language translators, the device offers significantly greater durability and reliability for professional use. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2018 / 0092846 A1

[0001]

Claims

[1] Language translators, especially portable language translators for use in harsh environments such as construction sites or military operations, characterized by , that - the device has a shock- and impact-resistant housing with all-round rubber protection, - the housing meets at least protection class IP67 in terms of water and dust resistance, - the device has tactile, physical controls that can also be operated with gloves, - a microphone with wind and structure-borne noise protection and a loud speaker covered by a protective grille are integrated, - a wireless communication unit is provided for connection to cloud-based translation services, - and optionally an offline operating mode is enabled by locally stored language models. [2] Language translator according to claim 1, characterized bythat several such devices can be connected wirelessly to one another, with either a single device taking over the functions of voice input and output or these functions being distributed across several connected devices in order to enable bidirectional real-time translation between the devices involved.