Abstract: A communication device for deaf, hearing impaired, or mute persons comprises a processor control system which makes use of a microphone and a speech recognizer to receive and process audio data (speech or non-speech) to determine whether or not a dangerous situation exits within the environment surrounding the user. The system comprises a key pad and/or stylus and tablet information input system to accommodate communication from the user to the persons in the surrounding environments and a visual display capability to transmit the information so acquired by way of a projection apparatus in the form of characters and in the language to which the user is accustomed. Indicator signals which correspond to dangerous or cautionary situations relating to abnormally loud noises, or readily recognized sound patterns, such as a siren may also be displayed to the user, as may be information related geographic location, distance to a preset destination, or other personally useful information.

Abstract: A device and method which operates as an artificial labyrinth to eliminate sensory mismatch between the natural labyrinth/vestibular system and the vision system of an individual. The present invention provides an alternative means for the user to determine the true orientation of his body with respect to the surrounding environment. The method can be effected by means of a device which senses true body orientation and displays corresponding visual orientation cues that the brain can use to confirm other visual position information. The display can be projected into space in front of the user, directly onto the user's retina, or effected by pictorial scene averaging. The device is particularly useful in the rehabilitation treatment of persons suffering from vestibular nervous system defect or damage, and in providing relief to those suffering from the symptoms of nausea and/or vertigo which are often experienced as a result of the aforementioned sensory mismatch.