Translation device for Iraq troops
Updated on 30 May 2007
A translation device worn like a wristwatch is being proposed to help British soldiers overcome language barriers and ease tense situations in Iraq.
Voice recognition-based technology would aid troops and civilians in high-risk and "hot zone" situations by translating buzz phrases such as "Don't shoot", "Stay back" and "Help will be here soon".
The technology - the idea of an Iraqi-born student who fled Baghdad before the war - is still a work-in-progress but research found an enthusiastic response from the front line.
Funding and a patent are now needed to produce the equipment, unveiled at the University of Derby by inventor Amin Ismail.
He came up with the idea with product design senior lecturer Karl Hurn for his final year project.
Mr Ismail said: "One reason I wanted to undertake this project was because it was my way of thanking British soldiers for their honourable work, people who are abandoning themselves from their loved ones to bring freedom to Iraqi people.
"Secondly, it is to improve the communication between soldiers and Iraqi people in high-risk situations where any misunderstandings might lead to a tragedy. If this device can help save innocent lives in a conflict situation then that has to be good."
Arabic-English translations are proposed but the device could also incorporate other languages, said Mr Ismail.
He met soldiers at the 4th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, based in Leeds, during his research.
One of soldier, recently returned from duty in Iraq, said: "This device is just what we need. We would be able to communicate freely with the locals, without having to rely on an interpreter. We could move people to safety quickly. The device would save lives and would help improve the trust and loyalty with the local population."
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