BowLingual
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
BowLingual is a computer-based dog-to-human language translation device invented in Japan. In 2002, BowLingual's inventors Keita Sato, President of Takara Company; Dr. Matsumi Suzuki, President of Japan Acoustic Lab; and Dr. Norio Kogure, Executive Director, Kogure Veterinary Hospital, won an Ig Nobel Prize for promoting peace and harmony between the species.
This device can translate barks for over 80 different dog breeds. For mixed breeds, the size and shape of the muzzle is the basis for translation. It also has several other functions including dog training tips, a "Bow Wow Diary" and tips on understanding your dog's body language.
In early 2003, Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi presented Russian President Vladimir Putin two prototypes of the English version of BowLingual, one for each of his dogs (Tosca, a standard Poodle, and Connie, a Labrador Retriever).
