Automatic Translation Glasses

Automatic Translation Glasses

Automated language translation is a significant and ongoing issue in this highly-connected world. No current system exists that allows for rapid, near real-time translation of written material in an ad-hoc manner in the field for a soldier or for day-to-day interaction for someone traveling in a foreign country.

The solution is for automatic translation glasses that combine three elements:

1. A set of glasses, similar to reading glasses or sunglasses with a camera in the frame and a reticle (a dot or cross hairs) for aiming (see Figure 1)

2. A computer to process translate, store, and speak the translation

3. An ear piece to transmit or a display to show the translation

Using the three elements mentioned above, the user would look at the text, signalling the computer to capture the image, translate it, and provide the translation. A video or digital camera could also be used as the input device. The advantage of the glasses-based system is the reflexive quality of the glasses and the possibility of hands-free use. This visual approach is very important since the user of the system may not have close proximity to, or contact with, the text. The system should also allow a scanning motion of the user's head to accommodate large or long messages. If the scan is not a good one, then the computer would make suggestions on how to improve the scan. In the case of an incomplete or flawed translation, the computer would notify the users of wha...