16 Jul A Glove Can Translate Sign Language with 99-Percent Accuracy
Researchers at UCLA have developed an inexpensive, high-tech glove that can translate sign language into written and spoken words on a smartphone. The system works in real time and can interpret 660 American Sign Language signs with a promising 98.63 percent accuracy.
The gloves have stretchable sensors made of electrically-sensing yarn running up each of the five fingers. The signals travel to a dollar coin-sized circuit board placed on the back of the glove, which then transmits wireless signals to smartphone. An app can convert those into text in real time at a rate of up to a word per second (60 words per minute).
The team also place adhesive sensors on testers’ faces to capture facial expressions that are part of American Sign language.
It could one day be used to teach more people sign language and help deaf people communicate with non-sign language users.