University of Washington students have developed innovative gloves that can translate sign language into spoken words, aiming to bridge the communication gap between sign language users and non-users. The gloves, called SignAloud, use sensors to track hand gestures used in American Sign Language (ASL) and convert them into text or speech in real-time.
Navid Azodi and Thomas Pryor, the masterminds behind SignAloud, were inspired by their shared interest in invention and problem-solving. They wanted to create a device that could make communication more accessible for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. The gloves are lightweight, compact, and ergonomic, making them practical for everyday use.
Unlike other sign language translation devices on the market, SignAloud gloves are designed to be worn on the hands, similar to hearing aids or contact lenses. The sensors on the gloves send data wirelessly to a computer, which then processes the gesture data using statistical regressions to identify and speak the corresponding word or phrase through a speaker.
The SignAloud gloves have received widespread recognition, winning the $10,000 Lemelson-MIT Student Prize in 2017. Azodi and Pryor’s creation has paved the way for improved communication between sign language users and the rest of the world. Their goal is to make sign language more accessible on a global scale, emphasizing the fundamental human right to communication.
The advanced technology of the SignAloud gloves showcases the potential for technological innovations to have a real-world impact. The gloves offer a practical solution for translating sign language gestures into spoken words, providing a crucial bridge between different communication styles. Azodi and Pryor’s groundbreaking invention is a testament to the power of innovation and problem-solving in enhancing accessibility and inclusivity.
