Pocketable Language Translation System for use in Noisy Environments

Mission Statement: To develop and deploy a Pocketable Language Translation System that identifies languages and user-selected keywords as they are spoken in the foreign language. Users will enter keywords into the system using their native language andthe system will automatically identify when they occur in the foreign language that is being spoken. This system will provide robust and reliable results even when significant background noise and/or degradation of the audio signal are present.Conversations shall be automatically recorded and saved. The system shall be capable of operating in a stand-alone manner, be low in cost, easy-to-use in all environments, comfortable to carry and/or wear, be easily expandable to additional languages andvocabulary words, ruggedized to shock, dust and water, be small in size, lightweight and have an extended battery life. The object of this effort is to develop and deploy a fully functional Pocketable Language Translations System (PLTS) that meets theabove requirements. The two main team members are SpeechGear, Inc., and the USC. SpeechGear's knowledge in the design, development and deployment of mobile translation systems will be combined with USC's expertise in recognizing speech in noisyenvironments to complete the design, development and deployment of the PLTS. Applications include all individuals who require multi-lingual translation capabilities in noisy environments. The mobile translator system will benefit a wide range ofindividuals including military personnel, airport employees, border patrol and customs agents, police, fire fighters, rescue personnel, retail clerks, bank tellers, delivery personnel, phone operators, tourists and any industry that sells, develops ormanufactures products to/in global markets or employs individuals that do not speak the native language.