Solid modeling of human vocal tract using magnetic resonance imaging and acoustic pharyngometer

This investigation uses a multi disciplinary approach to standardize a non-invasive method for measuring human vocal tract morphology. A series of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are performed on the subject's vocal tract and a detailed three-dimensional model is created through image processing and computer modeling. The area and volume obtained from the solid model is compared with that obtained from the Eccovision acoustic pharyngometer. This establishes the accuracy of the solid model. The model is then used to develop other specific models through parametric modeling. This method is useful in creating solid models with limited geometrical information and helps researchers study the human vocal tract changes due to aging and degenerative diseases.