Non-Invasive Pneumatic Artificial Larynx

Feb-28-18 The Pneumatic Artificial Larynx (PAL) provides a more natural voice without the need for surgical implantation.

Developed by a team from the MARCS Institute at Western Sydney University as part of the Bionic Voice project, the PAL device relies on the patient’s breath to recreate the function of the larynx. The device, which is completely non-invasives, uses the breath to produce a humming sound which is converted to speech by the motions of the tongue and lips.

While the current design is a bit bulky, the team plans to develop a more compact system that includes modules that fit over the stoma and on the roof of the mouth. According to Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Dr. Farzaneh Ahmadi, “We will effectively be providing patients with an artificial larynx that can be controlled automatically at any speech rate – able to stop and start, speed up and slow down, with clear diction and pitch.”

More Info about this Invention:

[PLOS.ORG]
[WESTERNSYDNEY.EDU.AU]

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