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NHK's automated, animated sign language translator adds gestures to subtitles (video)


We've seen quite a few devices designed to help hearing impaired users communicate via phone orcomputer, but Japan's NHK Science & Technology Research Laboratories has just announced a new animated translation system to help get important news to deaf viewers . While televised subtitles may work for those who understand the language, people who were born deaf and learned sign language from an early age can have significantly more difficulty. NHK's system, unveiled at Technology Open House 2011, bypasses this problem by automatically comparing Japanese text to sign language, converting equivalent words into animated onscreen gestures, and replacing differing words with appropriate synonyms. There are, however, a few kinks to work out. While comprehensible, the translations aren't exactly fluent and researchers have been forced to manually adjust some awkward transitions between words. The ultimate goal is to create a system that could be used during emergencies or natural disasters, allowing deaf citizens to receive urgent broadcasts as instantly as their hearing compatriots. You can see it in action, after the break.

Comments

  1. The quality of the sign language translator service

    plays an important role for communication to be effective. Certain guidelines must be taken into account

    before you employ these services for personal or business purposes.

    ReplyDelete
  2. NHK's automated, animated sign language translator is a groundbreaking innovation that will make educational content more accessible to a wider audience. The addition of gestures to subtitles is a brilliant way to enhance understanding and inclusivity. This technology has the potential to revolutionize how people learn and communicate. HQLS Translation Services

    ReplyDelete

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