Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Tatum1
What are the primary sources Tatum1 can translate?
The device can translate and sign content from various digital communication sources, including emails, websites, messaging apps, and eBooks. Additionally, the device can translate live language input from direct communication. The device offers remote, real-time translation, delivering highly accurate signing within seconds!
What are the translational/output options for the device?
The device has three main translation settings that allow you to tune the grammar and summarization level of the content. Tatum1 has customizable speed settings, advanced safety features and 45 general signs, making translational possibilities endless through fingerspelling.
What is the purpose of Tatum1?
The purpose of Tatum1 is to be an assistive translational aid for DeafBlind users. It is not intended to replace an interpreter, rather help communication when an interpreter isn't present. Tatum1 is intended to be used in home, school or healthcare settings.
How much does the device cost?
We work with iCanConnect to provide Tatum1 for free of charge. iCanConnect is a federally funded program that purchases and distributes assistive technology and will pay for the cost and training for Tatum1. If you do not qualify for iCC, please reach out to use about other assistive technology funding programs.
How does the device sign?
The device has customizable features such as speed, language, and button order. We partnered with DeafBlind individuals and organizations to make sure the device is easy to understand and interact with, and is as natural and comfortable to use as possible. The device will take a text input, break it down into smaller components and translate them to the signs stored in our databases.
Does Tatum only know ASL?
Right now, Tatum Robotics has collaborations all over the world to help teach Tatum1 more languages. If you are not an ASL user, please reach out to us and we can let you know the progress on your language.
How can I get help paying for Tatum1?
If you do not qualify for iCanConnect, no worries! We have formed the Tatum Robotics Foundation for this problem specifically. Click the button below to be connected or email at hello@tatumroboticsfoundation.org.
Additional Questions
What is deafblindness?
It is a condition where a combination of vision and hearing is severely impaired and impacts millions of people worldwide. People can become DeafBlind at any age. Deafblindness affects approximately 2.5 million people in the United States alone and affects over 2% of the world population.
What is the primary communication method for the DeafBlind?
DeafBlind individuals rely on tactile sign languages as their main communication method, typically through interpreters. Presently, DeafBlind communication relies solely on interpreters, affecting their autonomy. Many available devices focus on sight or hearing loss, not both.
How does the device sign?
The device signs via fingerspelling. For example, flower can be spelled F L O W E R utilizing an individual sign for each letter.
How do you make Tatum1?
The Tatum1 uses a 3D printing model and uses material such as TPU, nylon, and PETG. The device has 15 3D buttons that respond to touch, including a safety button, enabling DeafBlind individuals to use the device autonomously.
Can caregivers access the Tatum 1?
The robot operates on a cloud system, providing secure remote control and shared database management. Caregivers can oversee translations, make adjustments, and implement new updates. We are always working on new features and updates.
