Wearable technology to help people communicate without vocal cords
Wearable silent speech technology to enhance impaired oral communication
This study is testing a new wearable device that helps people who can't speak after surgery for throat cancer by turning their tongue and lip movements into natural-sounding speech, making it easier for them to communicate every day.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10669628 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a wearable device that assists individuals who have lost their ability to speak due to laryngectomy, a surgical procedure often performed for advanced laryngeal cancer. The device, known as a silent speech interface (SSI), uses a magnetic sensor and a camera to track tongue and lip movements, converting these movements into natural-sounding speech. By understanding how speech is produced without vocal fold vibration, the research aims to create a more effective communication tool for those affected. This technology is designed for daily use, providing a more intuitive and less mechanical alternative to existing communication methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have had a laryngectomy and are seeking alternative methods to communicate effectively.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone laryngectomy or those with other speech impairments unrelated to laryngeal function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve communication for individuals who have undergone laryngectomy, allowing them to express themselves more naturally.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in assistive communication technologies, this specific approach using silent speech interfaces is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Jun — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Wang, Jun
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.