Invention idea

[mobobuff]

I started thinking about this while at work today...

It's basically a mobile speech-to-text translator for the deaf. I realize a few things.

1. You would need an EXTREMELY WELL DESIGNED and EFFICIENT speech-to-text engine. What would you say is currently the best engine out there?
2. The device would not be cheap.
3. The idea is not new, it's been talked about before, I did some research when I got home.

I imagine this device being similar in design to a PDA, but its sole purpose is to constantly "listen" to sound input and, without much latency, convert it to text on a screen. If the translator engine was ridiculously efficient and accurate, it could even decipher different voices, and color-code the text to differentiate between voices, and translate them simultaneously. This would also require highly efficient audio detection hardware, and a good deal amount of processing power.

Again, I know the idea is not new, but as far as I know an actual device has not been produced. I also imagine this device having a remote accessory, maybe operating on Bluetooth technology, that could be placed next to a radio or television, or even a person not within range of the main device.

What are your thoughts? How long until a device like this is feasible? And will there even be a large enough market for it? Also, you'd have to factor in language compatibility, but I imagine many language "packs" could be developed, and the device could be loaded with them depending on the user's needs.

Cliffs:
1. Had idea for a mobile speech-to-text translator for the deaf.
2. Realized the problems and complexity.
3. Would appreciate your input. Specifically about the "what is the best current speech-to-text engine available?".

 

[S Freud]

FYI

Don't post something like this on the internet unless you have taken the measures to protect your idea. Some A-Hole on the internet will steal your idea if you don't.

 

[shuttleboi]

Take it a step further.

Speech --> text --> foreign language text --> foreign language speech

 

[Beev]

Thanks for the idea. Seeya guys later, I'm off to the patent office.

 

[Whoozyerdaddy]

Originally posted by: Sraaz
Thanks for the idea. Seeya guys later, I'm off to the patent office.

*tackles Sraaz*

Don't worry, I'll take the cuffs off when I get back.

 

[iamaelephant]

If it's not a new idea then the patent has been filed, you're too late.

 

[mobobuff]

Originally posted by: S Freud
FYI

Don't post something like this on the internet unless you have taken the measures to protect your idea. Some A-Hole on the internet will steal your idea if you don't.

Oh I really don't have the means to develop any patent on this, I was just curious as to what others thought.

Originally posted by: shuttleboi
Take it a step further.

Speech --> text --> foreign language text --> foreign language speech

Ooh I hadn't thought about that, that's an interesting idea.