Sign1o

Sign1o breaks barriers for deaf and mute job seekers by converting sign language to real-time text or speech, enabling clear communication and equal opportunity in interviews and the workplace.

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🧠 Inspiration

Despite possessing the necessary skills and qualifications, deaf and mute individuals often face significant barriers in the workforce due to communication challenges. According to the National Deaf Center, only 55.8% of deaf individuals were employed in 2022, compared to 72.7% of hearing individuals (source).

💡 What it does

Sign1o is an AI-powered platform that translates sign language into real-time text and speech. By leveraging computer vision and natural language processing, Sign1o enables seamless communication between deaf/mute individuals and hearing counterparts—eliminating the need for human interpreters and fostering more inclusive interactions in interviews and everyday work.

🛠 How we built it

  • Computer Vision: OpenCV & MediaPipe for real-time hand tracking
  • Machine Learning: TensorFlow model trained on a diverse ASL gesture dataset
  • Natural Language Processing: Algorithms to assemble recognized signs into coherent sentences
  • Text‑to‑Speech: Integration with cloud TTS APIs for audible output
  • Frontend: React.js web app for cross‑device accessibility

🚧 Challenges we ran into

  • Variability in signing styles across users and environments
  • Maintaining low latency for natural, real‑time conversations
  • Sourcing and labeling a comprehensive ASL dataset
  • Designing an intuitive UI that works for both deaf/mute and hearing users

🏆 Accomplishments that we’re proud of

  • Achieved high‑accuracy, real‑time ASL-to-text/speech translation
  • Positive user feedback from the deaf community on usability and impact
  • Built a scalable prototype with applications beyond hiring—education, telehealth, and more

📚 What we learned

  • The critical role of inclusive design and community feedback
  • The linguistic complexity and expressiveness of sign language
  • Balancing performance and accuracy in real‑time AI systems

🚀 What’s next for Sign1o

  1. Expanded Language Support: Add British Sign Language (BSL), International Sign, and more
  2. Two‑Way Communication: Translate spoken words back into sign animations
  3. Platform Integrations: Embed in Zoom, Teams, LinkedIn, etc.
  4. Mobile App: Native iOS/Android versions for on‑the‑go use
  5. Partnerships: Collaborate with employers and nonprofits to integrate Sign1o into hiring and education pipelines

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