EyeGaze, an innovative deaf services company based at the SETsquared Centre at the University of Bristol, has invented a handheld sign language video guide which will be used by deaf visitors to the SS Great Britain.
The guide was first previewed at the pre-launch of the magnificent SS Great Britain in July 2005, allowing deaf guests including deaf children to trial the new portable sign language video.
“We are delighted to provide better accessibility and first-rate translation service for deaf people visiting such grand Bristol landmarks as the SS Great Britain,” said Natalie Smith, a director of EyeGaze, and herself a ninth-generation deaf person. “In 1843, the SS Great Britain was top technology as the world’s first great ocean liner, first large iron ship and the first with a screw propeller. Once again, the SS Great Britain is part of world-leading technology. These portable sign language videos will open up a world of information to deaf people previously unavailable due to language obstacles.”
The written word is a second language for the deaf community who use British Sign Language as their main form of communication. Whilst great care is often taken to prepare audio recordings and written brochures in other languages, EyeGaze’s new technology will constitute an equal standard of translation for deaf people.
Currently, these handheld video devices use pre-recorded videos of sign language interpreters. However, new advancements in the technology shortly will make it possible for simultaneous translation services of live broadcasts, such as for theatrical plays, sporting events, speeches etc. A deaf individual’s accessibility to the interpreter literally will be in the palm of their hand. By having a handheld device, a deaf person will no longer be limited to sitting near an interpreter and will have the freedom to sit anywhere at events with friends and family. It also presents the clearest view of the interpreter, rather than straining to see the interpreter’s hands in the shadowy corners off-stage.
EyeGaze’s company creation has been supported by the SETsquared Business Acceleration team. The business acceleration services provide business mentoring, support and guidance along with low cost serviced office space to early stage technology companies. The SETsquared Business Acceleration Centre at the University of Bristol is part of the SETsquared Partnership of the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Southampton and Surrey, generating successful enterprise and entrepreneurship in southern England.
