Exclusive: Sony Unveils In-Game Translation Tech for Sign Language

Sony's latest patent focuses on enhancing accessibility for deaf gamers by introducing real-time in-game sign language translation. The patent details a system capable of translating one sign language into another within a gaming environment.

Sony Patents Real-Time Sign Language Translation for Video Games

Leveraging VR and Cloud Gaming Technologies

This innovative patent, titled "TRANSLATION OF SIGN LANGUAGE IN A VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT," proposes a system enabling seamless communication between gamers using different sign languages, such as American Sign Language (ASL) and Japanese Sign Language (JSL). The goal is to facilitate real-time translation during in-game interactions, bridging the communication gap for deaf players.

The proposed technology uses on-screen virtual indicators or avatars to display sign language translations. The process involves a three-step translation: first, sign gestures are converted into text; second, the text is translated into the target language; and finally, the translated text is converted back into the corresponding sign language gestures.

As Sony explains in the patent: "Implementations of the present disclosure relate to methods and systems for capturing sign language from one user and translating it for another user in their native sign language. Because sign languages vary geographically, this technology addresses the need for accurate capture, language understanding, and generation of appropriate sign language output."

Sony suggests utilizing VR headsets or head-mounted displays (HMDs) for system implementation. These HMDs would connect to a user device (PC, game console, etc.) to provide an immersive virtual environment. The patent further proposes a network-based system, potentially utilizing a cloud gaming architecture, where user devices communicate with each other and a game server. This server maintains the game's state, ensuring synchronized gameplay and interaction within the shared virtual environment. Cloud gaming functionality would allow for video rendering and streaming between user devices. This setup allows for seamless multiplayer interactions, even across geographical distances, with accurate sign language translation.