TranslatAble
Meredith Moore, Sethuraman Panchanathan · 2016
This paper presents the design of TranslatAble, a new Augmentative and Alternative Communication system. Taking advantage of the convenience and mobility of modern smartphones, TranslatAble allows individuals with complex communication needs-specifically individuals with severe dysarthria or individuals who primarily use non-sign language gestures---to build their own system of communication through speech or gesture input. This system uses a machine learning model---specifically dynamic time warping---to match the user's input to their unique dictionary to help them be understood by their communication partner. TranslatAble is highly flexible and person-centered, which allows it to adapt to fit the unique needs of each user's unique communication needs. We expect this novel device to enable individuals with complex communication needs to interact with a larger social circle. This may help decrease feelings of loneliness and increase self-confidence, self-esteem, and independence, as well as help maintain strong relationships outside of the user's support network.