British researchers have created a computerised character that could revolutionise television for the deaf. The virtual reality figure stands in a corner of the television screen using sign language to translate words spoken during programmes.
It is thought that the technology, developed at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, could make subtitles a thing of the past. The character, named Simon the Signer by his creators, is the result of a project involving the university, the Independent Television Commission and a Norwich-based graphics firm called Televirtual.
"Simon can convey the content of subtitles in sign-supported English," said Professor Andrew Bangham, head of the university's School of Information Systems. "We are consulting the experts, the deaf community, on how to improve his signing."
Simon has earned his creators a Royal Television Society technical innovation award - although it could be some time before he becomes a regular on television screens.
"We still have a long way to go but it is very gratifying to receive this award in recognition of the great potential of our work," added Prof Bangham.
"In time, virtual humans will become the most intuitive interface between man and machine. The dream is to talk to them, wave and they will smile, gesticulate and talk back."
Experts used 3D animation techniques and advanced computer technology to create Simon.
Sign language performed by a person was recorded with the use of hi-tech sensors then programmed into a computer which drives Simon's movements.