Local
3 Minute Interview-McCune
By: Susan Ferrechio
Chief Congressional Correspondent
January 13, 2009
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Your company produces something called a Voice Response Translator. What is it?
The Voice Response Translator (VRT) is an eyes-free, hands-free, body-worn voice-to-voice translator that enables U.S. combat personnel to communicate with foreign nations in both hostile and non-hostile situations. It’s the only voice-to-voice language translator to work in hot combat situations, weighs less than 11 ounces and works for over 65 hours on one battery charge.
Who uses this and why do they need it?
All U.S. military services use the VRT. The system is issued to personnel who need to maintain situational awareness and weapon readiness while communicating with foreign nations. Other language translation systems are bulky and require personnel to use their eyes and hands to operate them.
What went into developing a translator?
IWT has developed miniaturized speech recognition that works in high noise environments with very high accuracy. This allows users to operate the system in situations where there is a high amount of ambient noise. IWT has worked since 1992 to develop the system, after acquiring specialized technology developed in the former Soviet Union. This unique combination of U.S. and former Soviet technology formed the basis for the VRT.
What is in the future for voice translation?
IWT is part of the DARPA program to develop two-way or quasi-two-way voice-to-voice translators. These systems are perhaps a decade off, according to some estimates, and IWT continues to refine and improve its one-way technology.
How did you get involved in this company?
I worked for a consulting company and helped IWT put together a government proposal and program plan. When the company grew, they offered me the position as president.
