SignSimplified: Bridging Communication Gaps with ASL Technology

Winner: Top 10 Overall at DeltaHacks X, only solo submission in the top 10.

Demo:

Project Overview

"SignSimplified" is my submission for Deltahacks X, an innovative project utilizing computer vision and Python libraries for real-time American Sign Language (ASL) character recognition. This tool aims to enhance inclusivity and communication accessibility.

Features

• Real-time Character Recognition: Uses advanced computer vision to recognize ASL characters on-the-fly.
• High Accuracy: Trained model ensures precise recognition, critical for effective ASL communication.
• Modular Design: Allows for easy integration of additional ASL characters, facilitating comprehensive language coverage.

Technologies Used

• MediaPipe
• NumPy
• Matplotlib
• TensorFlow
• Pickle
• SciKit
• OpenCV

Aligning with MLH Best DEI Hack Challenge

1. Fostering Diversity and Inclusion:

• Bridging Communication Gaps: Facilitates interaction within the deaf community and between the deaf and hearing communities, promoting social inclusion.
• Cultural Respect and Awareness: Raises awareness and respect for ASL as a complete, natural language, fostering cultural diversity and inclusion.

2. Enhancing Equity:

• Equal Access to Information and Services: By translating ASL into text or speech, SignSimplified can provide deaf individuals with equal access to information, services, and opportunities that are often primarily designed for hearing individuals.
• Educational Empowerment: Can be used as a learning tool in educational institutions to support deaf students, ensuring they receive the same quality of education as their hearing peers.

3. Creating Sustainable and Inclusive Solutions:

• Scalable Impact: With its modular design, SignSimplified can evolve to include more ASL signs and phrases, widening its impact.
• Universal Design Principles: Adheres to universal design principles, making it a versatile tool that can be integrated into various platforms and services, increasing accessibility for ASL users.

Future Directions

• Integration into Digital Platforms: Enhance digital accessibility by integrating SignSimplified into websites, apps, and virtual assistants.
• Community-Driven Development: Encourage contributions from the deaf community and ASL experts to refine and expand the ASL recognition capabilities.

Invitation to Collaborate

Join us in developing "SignSimplified" to create a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone. Your expertise and insights are invaluable in this journey.