Travelling by public transport often involves communicating with others, whether in a taxi or at a train station. For people who use sign language, this can present challenges when information and services rely on spoken communication. As voice-controlled technology and AI become increasingly common in the transport sector, accessibility is becoming an even more important consideration.
Project Se explores how AI and existing technologies can be used together to overcome communication barriers and make future transport systems more accessible to sign language users. The project focuses on understanding users' needs and laying the groundwork for further development through a larger project.
As part of the feasibility study, the project will explore user needs and develop a proof of concept for a solution that can translate sign language into speech and speech into text in real time. The aim is to contribute to more inclusive and socially sustainable transport solutions.
The feasibility study will begin with a literature review conducted by Leap for Life to gain a better understanding of the needs of sign language users. In parallel, Oderiye Labs and RISE will explore the software and hardware required to test the concept. The partners will then define the requirements for the prototype and begin an iterative development process to create a working system.
The project aims to make public transport more accessible to people who use sign language. It will explore users' needs, develop a proof of concept for translating between sign language, speech and text, and provide a foundation for further development.
August 2026 – February 2027
The project is supported by the Strategic Vehicle Research and Innovation (FFI) programme and Vinnova, Sweden's innovation agency.
The project brings together RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Social Venture Network Sweden, Leap for Life, Iris Hadar and Oderiye Labs, with RISE acting as project coordinator.
The project supports UN Sustainable Development Goals 9, 10 and 11 by developing digital solutions that make transport more accessible to sign language users and contribute to more inclusive and socially sustainable mobility.
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