An Open Machine Translation System for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

In this paper we describe the characteristics of an open system we designed and implemented that adds Machine Translation (MT) capabilities into Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) applications. In particular, we present the basis for an open MT framework that can easily integrate with component-based developments especially regarding interpersonal communication and information presentation, either in standalone or web-based applications. We concentrate on the system’s core, an expandable database of multimedia elements, which offers uniform management of multiple representations of concepts in both natural languages and symbolic communication systems, allowing concept-by-concept omnidirectional translation. Applications of the system are also presented, along with brief pointers on current work for possible extensions and improvements.