Timbrasom

Timbrasom

Timbrasom

Android application that translates any kind of sound into rhythmical vibrations. It proposes a better quality of life and enjoyment for deaf people.

São Sebastião, SP, Brasil

Brazil

Hybrid of for-profit and nonprofit

Globally, the WHO estimates over 500 million deaf people, with Brazil accounting for 2% of that number. The Brazilian deaf community is divided into three groups: those fluent in both Libras (Brazilian sign language) and Portuguese, those who only know Libras, and those with no proficiency in either. The degree of hearing loss also affects how many people know sign language. 1.8% of those who have little hearing loss know sign language compared to 3% for moderate and 35.8% for severe hearing loss. Historical restrictions on practicing Libras have contributed to current gaps in education, with elderly individuals—making up 50% of deaf Brazilians—often lacking sign language skills. Despite a potential rise to 1 billion deaf individuals globally by 2050, salary prospects remain low, leading to limited purchasing power. The social isolation resulting from communication barriers underscores the need for stronger community ties. The true problem lies within its community; since they were segregated, they tend to segregate others. Timbrasom’s mission is to universalize sound accessibility and empower deaf individuals, fostering an inclusive community where active communication is central and done through our translation system.

Timbrasom is an Android app available on the Play Store that translates sound into vibrations using two modes. In the "Microphone" mode, the app captures environmental sound and converts it into vibrations. The mode adapts its sensitivity every 30 seconds; therefore, it can be used in one-on-one conversations, to learn musical instruments, and in load environments. It aids in teaching deaf people to play instruments, dancing through vibration, and learning new languages. The mobile device vibrates differently for each consonant and intonation, helping in the process of oralization. Additionally, the "Timbrar" button records internal audio, allowing the app to operate in the background and translate sound from various apps such as Deezer, YouTube, Google Chrome, Disney+, and League of Legends Wild Rift, further improving accessibility, quality of life, and home teaching. Here's a video that shows a demo working with a child; notice how he tries to understand the different vibrational inputs from the cellphone, first with his voice, then with a melody (he started dancing with his head): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cn1r7iVZnCmbrCcYi39QErS67vIfzPEW/view?usp=drive_link

I'm working directly with the Deaf Associations in Ribeirão Preto, São Carlos, and Salt Lake City (Utah). I have a partnership with the Deaf's Festival (https://www.instagram.com/p/C5OrYmXJM-t/) and a collaboration with the Utah Symphony (https://www.instagram.com/utahsymphony/p/C8x8eIFtJjI/). Utah Symphony has deaf patrons who were asking for an accessibility solution, Timbrasom came as the best solution for them; we even tested it on Dvorak's Violin Concert and received good feedback about it. The associations in São Carlos and Ribeirão Preto had trouble getting new members and creating events; the musical events Timbrasom is capable of building are helping them grow their impact on the city. Deaf's Festival is a musical festival made by and for the deaf community, Timbrasom is a cheaper option compared to vibrational vests, so they can scale their show and receive more people at a lower cost. We are trying to teach deaf children above the age of 5 Libras and music with vibrations with these parterns.