A new communication system called Cotopat is revolutionizing the way foreign tourists and the hearing impaired interact with staff at local governments and companies. Developed by electronics manufacturer Kyocera Corp, this innovative system eliminates the need for smartphone apps and other devices.
The Cotopat system works by converting speech into on-screen text in real time or translating Japanese into five different languages, including English and Chinese. This technology will particularly benefit the elderly, those with hearing difficulties, and foreign travelers who often struggle to understand explanations given at service counters.
Using a microphone, the Cotopat system recognizes the voice of a staff member and employs artificial intelligence to translate their words onto a transparent screen. Measuring 18 centimeters in height and 30 cm in width, the screen is attached to materials such as an acrylic board and displays the text in a clear and readable format.
Through preliminary tests, it has been shown that Cotopat has an impressive speech recognition accuracy of 96 percent. Unlike smartphone transcription apps that require users to look down at their devices, Cotopat allows for better visual communication by enabling viewers to see the facial expressions and mouth movements of the staff members they are speaking with. This contributes to more natural and effective communication.
Cotopat has already undergone trials at various facilities across Japan, including JR Shinjuku Station and the Kamakura City Library. Users have provided positive feedback, with one individual stating, We can respond to those with hearing difficulties without raising our voices, while another mentioned that Having text display made conversations easier, even for those without hearing issues.
Furthermore, Cotopat has the capability to automatically highlight pre-entered names of places or products, as well as display related maps or images when they are mentioned in conversations. This feature enhances the overall user experience and provides additional contextual information.
Overall, the introduction of the Cotopat system signifies a major advancement in the realm of communication for both foreign tourists and the hearing impaired. Its ability to provide real-time text translation and enhance face-to-face interactions will undoubtedly improve the quality of service and accessibility at municipal government offices and train stations. Through this innovative technology, Kyocera Corp is ensuring more inclusive and seamless communication for all individuals, regardless of their language or hearing abilities.
