Synthesis of virtual reality animation from sign language notation using MPEG-4 body animation parameters

This paper presents a novel approach for generating VRML animation sequences from Sign Language notation, based on MPEG-4 Face and Body Animation. Sign Language notation, in the well-known Sign Writing system, is provided as input and is initially converted to SWML (Sign Writing Markup Language), an XML-based format that has recently been developed for the storage, indexing and processing of Sign Writing notation. Each basic sign, namely sign box, is then converted to a sequence of Body Animation Parameters (BAPs) of the MPEG-4 standard, corresponding to the represented gesture. In addition, if a sign contains facial expressions, these are converted to a sequence of MPEG-4 Facial Animation Parameters (FAPs), while exact synchronization between facial and body movements is guaranteed. These sequences, which can also be coded and/or reproduced by MPEG-4 BAP and FAP players, are then used to animate H-anim compliant VRML avatars, reproducing the exact gestures represented in the sign language notation. Envisaged applications include interactive information systems for the persons with hearing disabilities (Web, E-mail, info–kiosks) and automatic translation of written texts to sign language (e.g. for TV newscasts).