From time to time, there are projects that inspire and that you are proud to be a part of. The BIGEKO research project is one such project. Together with partners like the DFKI, we are developing a new system for translating sign language with the help of artificial intelligence. It aims to improve communication between deaf and hearing people and is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). Great project partners and a human-centered design with great social impact? Count us in!
The technology uses camera systems to record and translate sign language and the emotions it expresses. The aim is to enable deaf people to use sign language to communicate with the police or emergency services in emergency situations, for example to report an accident or file a complaint. Questions asked by hearing people are also translated into sign language.
In this way, BIGEKO enables bidirectional translation, helping to increase trust and safety and improve the quality of life for deaf people. Especially in emergency situations, the management of the feeling of security and the associated understanding of the individual emotional situation is of great importance. The integration of automatic recognition of emotions in signs provides important situational information and represents an absolute novelty in the technology-supported translation of communication between deaf and hearing people.
Centigrade accompanies the project with a focus on user research and the collection and management of user-centered requirements and co-creation. The user research aims to ensure that the user-centered requirements are adapted to the needs and goals of deaf people in emergency situations and other relevant user groups.
We are delighted to be involved in this important project and look forward to working with the DFKI and the other project partners. The BIGEKO project demonstrates the potential of AI to break down barriers and represents a big step towards inclusive technology and we are proud to be able to support this effort.
