It is the intent of this project to research the various questions regarding the development of a stenographic device capable of instantly converting the spoken word into some type of visual "text" display that would benefit those people who are hearing impaired. The device should be a portable, lightweight, self-contained unit that could be easily moved from one location to another and set up for operation in a matter of minutes. The primary thrust of the research would be to investigate the functional requirements of such a device.Anticipated Results and
Potential Commercial Applications: It is expected that within the time allotted for Phase I and II, Advanced Technical Concepts will have a fully tested working model of the stenographic device referred to in the abstract. It is also expected that at least an initial plan for the mass production of the stenographic device will also be in place. The commercial application of the portable, real time, stenographic translator is directed to any situation where there is a need to convert the spoken word into visual text at the speed at which the words are spoken. These situations could include classroom lectures, courtroom proceedings, or professional seminars. The unit should also be capable of providing an output format that can be used by printers, closed caption encoders and Braille generating devices. Key Words: Portable, Real Time, Stenographic Translator, Hearing Impaired, CaptioningTopic 1: Development or Adaptation of Devices Mechanisms, or Techniques for Disabled Individuals
