GUWAHATI: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G) have made a significant breakthrough in the field of speech technology with the development and patenting of "LOQU," a novel method to generate human speech signals directly from vocal cord vibrations.
The research team, led by L.N. Sharma and guided by Samarendra Dandapat, from the department of electronics and electrical engineering, has developed a device that captures vocal fold movements using non-invasive sensors placed over the throat. This innovative approach allows for the reconstruction of speech signals from vocal cord vibrations, providing new opportunities for individuals with speech impairments.
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Speech production involves airflow from the lungs through the windpipe, facilitated by the larynx or voice box, which houses the vocal cords or vocal folds. In some cases, individuals with conditions like apraxia might have normal vocal fold vibrations but struggle with producing speech due to coordination issues in the tongue or throat muscles. "LOQU" aims to address this by capturing vocal fold vibrations and electronically processing these signals to generate clear speech.
Explaining the technology, Sharma stated, "Our method involves capturing vocal fold vibrations using non-invasive sensors and processing these signals electronically to generate speech harmonics. The resulting speech signals closely resemble traditional speech, as validated through comparison tests with signals recorded using conventional microphones."
Dandapat added, “This breakthrough holds immense promise for individuals facing speech impairments, offering a viable solution with clear and comparable speech signals. With 'LOQU,' we aim to empower those in need and drive impactful innovations in the medical and communication domains.”
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The prototype of LOQU was developed on a laboratory scale at a cost of under INR 2,000. The technology has been patented (Indian Patent No.: 510923, Grant Date: 15/02/2024, App No. 201831006870), marking a significant milestone in speech research and innovation.
The IIT Guwahati research team plans to continue clinical testing to further validate the effectiveness of LOQU and explore diverse applications in medical and communication fields. The development of this technology represents a promising step towards addressing speech impairments.
