Speech Generation Device Using Projected Display and Optical Inputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional speech generation devices are bulky, heavy, and have high power requirements, limiting their portability and usability for individuals with varying physical disabilities, as they often require physical input and lack flexibility in display size and input methods.
Innovation Solution
The use of a projector as a display output feature and optical input devices, such as cameras, to provide a projected display and enable user input through pointing or gestures, reducing the need for physical interaction and allowing for adjustable display sizes and locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a large display device is used in conventional speech generation devices, then sufficient display area is provided for communication screens, but the device size becomes substantial and blocks user view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a fixed two-dimensional display panel to a three-dimensional projected display that can be displayed on surfaces at various distances from the user. The projector can project images onto tables, walls, or other surfaces, allowing the display area to extend into the third dimension and eliminating the blockage problem while maintaining sufficient display area for communication screens.
2Device complexity
If display devices and hardware components are integrated into a single housing, then the device structure is unified, but the device becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the display function from the traditional integrated housing by using a separate projector unit that can be positioned independently. The projector can be placed on a table or mounted separately, eliminating the need to incorporate a large display panel into the speech generation device housing. This separation significantly reduces the weight and bulk of the main device while maintaining the integrated functionality through wireless or wired connections.
3Reliability
If conventional display devices are used, then stable display output is achieved, but power consumption is high and limits freedom of movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional high-power display panel with a projector system that uses optical projection instead of high-luminance electronic display. Projectors generally consume less power than large high-resolution display panels while providing comparable or superior display area. The projected display maintains stability through proper surface selection and projection geometry, eliminating the need for constant electrical power supply and enabling greater freedom of movement for the user.
4Ease of operation
If physical input devices like touch screens are used, then direct user interaction is enabled, but users with limited motor control cannot operate the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple input methods including eye-tracking technology, voice recognition, and gesture control alongside traditional touch interface options. The eye-tracking system uses cameras to detect eye movement and gaze direction, allowing users with limited motor control to navigate and select options on the projected display. Voice recognition enables hands-free operation, and gesture control provides alternative interaction methods. This multi-functional input system ensures accessibility for users with diverse physical abilities while maintaining ease of operation for all user types.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution results in a more compact, lightweight, and portable speech generation device that can be used by individuals with diverse physical abilities, offering flexible display options and reduced power consumption, enhancing user mobility and communication accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
a projector configured to project images onto a surface
Implementation Method 2
an optical input device configured to capture user inputs
Data Source
AI summary
In several embodiments, a speech generation device is disclosed. The speech generation device may generally include a projector configured to project images in the form of a projected display onto a projection Surface, an optical input device configured to detect an input directed towards the projected display and a speaker configured to generate an audio output. In addition, the speech generation device may include a processing unit communicatively coupled to the projector, the optical input device and the speaker. The processing unit may include a processor and related computer readable medium configured to store instructions executable by the processor, wherein the instructions stored on the computer readable medium configure the speech generation device to generate text-to-speech output.