Bilingual Phrase Translation System (BPTS)

SRI's next-generation translation systems are bilingual---they perform bidirectional, voice-to-voice machine translation between English and another language. The bilingual translation software can run on ruggedized Phraselator or standard commercial, off-the-shelf hardware, such as a laptop or PDA.

The bilingual phrase translation system (BPTS) matches spoken input phrases to prerecorded translations which are played through a speaker. The non-English speaker is then prompted to say one of a set of expected responses, which is translated into English. The BPTS also has the capability to spot unexpected words requiring urgent attention, such as "Help! We need a doctor!"

The BPTS is designed supplement human translators in situations where the information to be exchanged is fairly constrained and predictable within some range of variability. The systems are best used for asymmetric dialog, where the English speaker directs the conversation.

History of BPTS

SRI began work on BPTS in late 2001. We have given evaluation copies to AFRL, ARL, NRL, USMA, Army Rapid Equipping Forces, and CERDEC, and the system was tested in the CARE04 exercise.

Our original bilingual translation system was developed for the Pashto language, spoken in Afghanistan, and we are currently adapting it to Filipino (Tagalog).

BPTS brochure