Image-to-Speech System for Speech Impairment and Language Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with speech impairments face challenges in communication due to limited vocabulary representation with existing image-based systems, and travelers struggle with language barriers when using automated phrase books that require typing and pronunciation.
Innovation Solution
A portable computing device with a touchscreen interface that stores image data elements, allowing users to select and arrange images to form sentences, which are then converted to audio output, enabling communication and language translation without the need for typing or pronunciation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of images are provided for communication, then vocabulary representation is improved, but the device becomes bulky and unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital copies of images stored in memory rather than physical image cards. The processor can generate and display multiple image representations from stored data, providing unlimited vocabulary without physical bulk. This allows the device to maintain a large image library while remaining compact and portable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If automated phrase books require typing and reading out phrases, then language translation functionality is provided, but ease of operation deteriorates for users unsure of pronunciation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs text-to-speech conversion automatically based on selected images, eliminating the need for users to manually type or pronounce phrases. The device serves itself by converting the selected image representations into spoken output, making the system usable by anyone regardless of their language skills or pronunciation ability.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for communicating includes a processor, a memory, a storage, a display, a manual input arrangement and audio output. Image data elements are stored in the storage and the processor is configured to output a plurality of the image data elements to the display, receive manual input selecting at least one of the image data elements and receive manual input indicating that selection is completed. For each selected image data element, the processor produces and outputs a further data element.