Bi-directional Sign Language Speech Translation Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sign language translation technologies are unidirectional, fragmented, and not suitable for real-time bidirectional communication, posing challenges for individuals with hearing impairments in everyday life.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional sign language/speech translation apparatus and method using a body-attached device, such as smart glasses, that includes a pattern analyzer, speech-sign outputter, and sign-speech outputter to recognize and translate signs and speech in real-time, incorporating location and environmental information to enhance translation speed and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If unidirectional subtitle service is used, then hearing-impaired persons can receive information in one direction, but bidirectional communication is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The translation apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can translate speech to sign language, sign language to speech, and operate in both unidirectional and bidirectional modes. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve various communication needs without requiring separate systems for different communication directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different translation modes (speech-to-sign, sign-to-speech) and operational directions based on real-time communication needs. The apparatus can adapt its function during conversation, enabling flexible bidirectional communication where the translation direction changes according to who is speaking and who is hearing-impaired.
2Reliability
If video relay service with sign language interpreter is used, then sign language information can be transferred, but connection time and translation speed are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automatic speech recognition and machine translation algorithms to perform translation without requiring a human sign language interpreter. The apparatus processes and translates language independently, eliminating the need for manual interpretation and reducing dependency on external human resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human interpretation with automated computational systems including speech recognition software, natural language processing algorithms, and machine translation engines. This substitution dramatically reduces translation time while maintaining consistent accuracy.
3Productivity
If gesture-based sign language translation is used, then signs can be recognized and converted to speech, but simultaneous bidirectional translation and situation-based translation are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds contextual dimensions to the translation process by incorporating location information, environmental data, and situation awareness. Beyond simple gesture recognition, the apparatus considers the context in which communication occurs, enabling more accurate and situation-appropriate translations while maintaining real-time performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus continuously receives feedback from multiple sources including camera input for gesture recognition, location services for contextual information, and environmental sensors. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt its translation output based on the current situation, improving both accuracy and relevance while maintaining translation speed.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an apparatus for bi-directional sign language/speech translation in real time and method that may automatically translate a sign into a speech or a speech into a sign in real time by separately performing an operation of recognizing a speech externally made through a microphone and outputting a sign corresponding to the speech, and an operation of recognizing a sign sensed through a camera and outputting a speech corresponding to the sign.