Development of a New Sign Language Translation System for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Objectives: Many people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulty in developing communication skills, and they suffer from speech disorders. They must use an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system that helps with ordinary speech, such as picture exchange communication systems, text systems, and voice output devices. Among them, sign language has been recommended for people with ASD because it has many advantages as a communication system. Method: This paper describes the possible impact of a new sign language translation device, called Talking Hands, for people with ASD. This paper describes Talking Hands from a technological point of view, focusing on its features that can help people ASDs with speech impairment. Results: Taking into account the most recent studies on sign language application on people with disabilities, we analyse the advantages that Talking Hands could give to people with speech impairment, increasing the ones naturally given by sign languages. Conclusions: Although there are still some limitations in the use of Talking Hands on a daily basis, the analysis indicates Talking Hands is an innovative AAC device for people with ASD and could have a positive impact on others with speech disorders.