Sony Patents In-Game Sign Language Translator

Sony's groundbreaking patent aims to enhance accessibility for deaf gamers by introducing real-time in-game sign language translation. This innovative technology bridges communication gaps, allowing seamless interaction between players using different sign languages.

Sony Patents Real-Time Sign Language Translation for Video Games

Leveraging VR and Cloud Gaming Technologies

This patent, titled "TRANSLATION OF SIGN LANGUAGE IN A VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT," details a system enabling real-time translation between sign languages, such as American Sign Language (ASL) and Japanese Sign Language (JSL). Sony envisions a future where deaf gamers can participate fully in in-game conversations through instantaneous translation.

The proposed technology utilizes on-screen virtual indicators or avatars to dynamically display translated sign language. The process involves a three-step translation: sign gestures are first converted to text, then translated into the target language, and finally rendered as sign gestures in the recipient's native sign language.

"The present disclosure addresses methods and systems for capturing and translating sign language between users with differing native sign languages," explains Sony's patent application. "Given the geographical variations in sign languages, this technology addresses the critical need for accurate capture, interpretation, and generation of sign language for users across diverse linguistic backgrounds."

Sony suggests implementing this system using VR headsets or head-mounted displays (HMDs). These HMDs would connect to user devices (PCs, game consoles, etc.) to provide an immersive gaming experience.

Furthermore, Sony proposes a networked system, potentially utilizing a cloud gaming architecture. This would allow seamless communication between user devices and a game server, maintaining game state synchronization and facilitating real-time interaction within a shared virtual environment. The game server, potentially part of a cloud gaming platform, would handle the rendering and streaming of video between users. This setup ensures smooth, lag-free communication and interaction for all players.