Automatic translation system to Spanish sign language with a virtual interpreter

Abstract

In this paper, an automatic translation system from Spanish language into Spanish Sign Language (LSE) performed by a virtual interpreter is presented. The translator is based on rules from Spanish grammar considering the syntactical and morphological characteristics of words and the semantics of their meaning. The system has been incorporated to an animation engine in which a virtual character acts as an interpreter that communicates using LSE. The mood of the interpreter is considered, so that the translation and the signs are modified depending on whether the interpreter is happy, angry, etc. The system has been tested with satisfactory results in speed and quality. © 2009 Springer.