Indian educator Arjun Patel unveiled "SignSpectrum," a tactile device converting speech patterns into vibrating color gradients. The system uses AI-powered microphones to analyze vocal frequencies, translating them into pulsating patterns on wearable haptic bands. Deaf students at Delhi's Institute for the Deaf tested the tool, demonstrating 70% faster comprehension of tonal languages like Mandarin.
Patel's breakthrough combines flexible graphene sensors with traditional Indian kolam art patterns, creating tactile visuals that correlate with phonetic elements. The toolkit includes modular tiles for schools, enabling teachers to construct grammar lessons through tactile sequences. UNICEF has partnered with Patel to distribute 5,000 units to conflict zones in sub-Saharan Africa.
"This bridges the gap between sound and silence," Patel remarked. His design won the INDEX: Award Education Category, with Google adapting the tech for real-time sign language transcription in Meet app.