A novel device developed as a rehabilitation tool for people having difficulties in reading printed text is presented. The proposed system enables the user to randomly access the words of a printed text by directing a handheld pointer that is similar to a pencil. The application of modern information technologies makes it possible the implementation of a device that combines effectiveness, robustness, and friendliness of use. A micro camera is fixed to the pointer and frames the word the user wants to read. A voice synthesizer reproduces the word just recognized. A suitable measurement of the device motion based on real time image processing allows determining when the user has stopped the pointer thus indicating the wish to hear the pointed word(s). A trial run with a selected group of pupils shows the potential of the novel system.
A handheld real-time text reader
MINONI, Umberto;BIANCHI, Mauro;
2011-01-01
Abstract
A novel device developed as a rehabilitation tool for people having difficulties in reading printed text is presented. The proposed system enables the user to randomly access the words of a printed text by directing a handheld pointer that is similar to a pencil. The application of modern information technologies makes it possible the implementation of a device that combines effectiveness, robustness, and friendliness of use. A micro camera is fixed to the pointer and frames the word the user wants to read. A voice synthesizer reproduces the word just recognized. A suitable measurement of the device motion based on real time image processing allows determining when the user has stopped the pointer thus indicating the wish to hear the pointed word(s). A trial run with a selected group of pupils shows the potential of the novel system.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
