On-demand, real-time interpretation system and method

Abstract

A system and method for on-demand, real-time interpretation services. The system includes a mobile hands-free communicator that cooperates with a two-way radio frequency communication device. The hands-free communicator includes a unique identifier that is operably associated with the user. An initiation protocol enables the user to request interpretation services using the hands-free communicator

1 . A method for real-time, live voice communication between a first person speaking a first language and a second person speaking a second language different from the first language, the method comprising:
 associating a unique identifier with a 2-way RF device, the 2-way RF device having a one-step call feature, which, when actuated, automatically transmits the unique identifier to the interpretation service provider and automatically connects an individual interpreter with the first person and the second person in real-time, live voice communication via the 2-way RF device;   the individual interpreter facilitating a conversation between the first person and the second person, wherein the first person and the individual interpreter communicate in the first language in real-time, live voice communication and the second person and the individual interpreter communicate in the second language in real-time, live voice communication.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the first language is associated with the unique identifier. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the first and second languages are associated with the unique identifier. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 2  wherein the one-step call feature comprises a preprogrammed call button, which, when actuated, automatically calls the interpretation service provider and automatically communicates to the interpretation service provider the unique identifier and the first language for which interpretation services are requested. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 3  wherein the one-step call feature comprises a preprogrammed call button, which, when actuated, automatically calls the interpretation service provider and automatically communicates to the interpretation service provider the unique identifier and the first and second language for which interpretation services are requested. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the 2-way RF device cooperates with a hands-free communicator having a microphone, speaker and transceiver that wirelessly communicates with the 2-way RF device. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the first person is associated with the unique identifier. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7  wherein the first person's address is associated with the unique identifier. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the interpretation service provider comprises a call center. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the interpretation service provider comprises a plurality of call centers. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 10  wherein the 2-way RF device is preprogrammed to call the call center based on the first person's residency. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 10  wherein the 2-way RF device is preprogrammed to call the call center based on the first person's present geographic location.