Glove translates sign language into speech

Glove translates sign language into speech

A glove has been developed that translates sign language into speech in real time.

Scientists from the University of California, LA, created a “inexpensive, flexible and highly durable” device that is capable of translating American sign language into English speech via an app.

The gloves contain thin, stretchable sensors that run the length of each of the fingers.

These sensors pick up hand motions and finger placements that stand for letters, numbers, words and phrases.

Finger movements are then turned into electrical signals that are sent to a small circuit board on the wrist.

Finally, the board transmits those signals wirelessly to a smartphone, where they get translated at the rate of around one word a second.

Although encouraging, the glove was only tested on four deaf patients.

It is also unclear when it may be publicly available.