Development of a wireless electromyographically controlled electrolarynx voice prosthesis.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Speech Rehabilitation
• Prosthetic Devices

Background:

• Electrolarynx (EL) devices are common for post-laryngectomy speech but produce mechanical, monotone voices lacking naturalness.
• Previous research indicates that adding pitch variation to EL speech improves naturalness ratings.
• Existing EMG-controlled EL prototypes offer pitch variation and voice control but require further development for practical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a novel wireless electrolarynx (EMG-EL) prosthesis.
• To integrate flexible manual and automatic (EMG-based) control for voice onset/offset and pitch.
• To ensure the device is manufacturable at a reasonable cost for widespread patient adoption.

Main Methods:

• Development of a wireless EMG-controlled electrolarynx (EMG-EL) system.
• Incorporation of both manual (push-button) and automatic (EMG-signal-driven) control modes.
• Consideration of technical design aspects and human factors for user-friendliness and manufacturability.

Main Results:

• A functional wireless EMG-EL voice prosthesis was designed.
• The design allows for a flexible combination of manual and automatic controls for speech production.
• Emphasis was placed on cost-effective manufacturing for accessibility.

Conclusions:

• The developed wireless EMG-EL offers a promising advancement in electrolarynx technology for laryngectomy patients.
• The hybrid control system aims to enhance speech naturalness and user control.
• The focus on cost-effective design facilitates potential widespread clinical application and improved quality of life.