The Haskins optically corrected ultrasound system (HOCUS).

Area of Science:

• Speech Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The tongue's crucial role in speech production is hindered by challenges in its measurement due to complex shapes and limited visibility.
• Existing methods for tongue tracking during speech are often invasive or provide limited views.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a new, noninvasive technique for real-time, comprehensive visualization of the tongue surface during natural speech.
• To overcome the limitations of current tongue imaging methods in speech research.

Main Methods:

• A combined system using optical tracking (Optotrak with infrared emitting diodes) and ultrasound imaging.
• External markers (IREDs) on the head and ultrasound transceiver allow for motion correction.
• Integration with structural MRI can enable estimation of the pharyngeal wall position.

Main Results:

• The technique provides a real-time, noninvasive view of most of the tongue surface during running speech.
• The ultrasound image is corrected for head and transceiver motion, referenced to vocal tract structures.
• Potential for high-quality, relatively low-cost imaging of the tongue during unconstrained speech.

Conclusions:

• This novel optical-ultrasound combination offers a significant advancement in noninvasive tongue visualization for speech research.
• The method facilitates detailed study of tongue dynamics in speech production.
• It presents a promising, accessible tool for understanding the biomechanics of speech.