The Digital Reading System is an incredible low-cost reading device, developed by researchers at Australia's Curtin University, that allows visually impaired people to 'read' documents. The device processes graphical information such as bills, PDFs, graphs and bank statements so visually impaired people can digest them.
The device uses pattern recognition and machine learning technology to separate content into blocks of text and pictures arranged in the correct reading order. These blocks are then identified as text, images, graphs or numbers and extracted. The information is then converted to audio format and can be translated into 120 different languages via a built-in speech engine.
The Digital Reading System is easily operable by people of all ages and abilities and is open source, allowing skilled coders to modify the software to suit different applications.
Blind Reading Devices
The Digital Reading System Translates Documents for the Visually Impaired
Trend Themes
1. Low-cost Reading Devices - Opportunities for developing affordable reading devices that cater to the needs of visually impaired individuals.
2. Pattern Recognition Technology - Utilizing pattern recognition and machine learning technology to improve accessibility and assist visually impaired individuals in reading graphical content.
3. Multilingual Speech Engines - Developing speech engines capable of translating text into multiple languages to cater to diverse linguistic needs.
Industry Implications
1. Assistive Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunities in the assistive technology industry to create advanced reading devices for visually impaired individuals.
2. Software Development - Innovations in software development to enhance reading system functionalities and customization for different applications.
3. Language Translation Services - Opportunities in the language translation industry to support the translation of text content into multiple languages for adaptability.