[Extended application potential for Esser's speech-color image transformation in the phoniatrics clinic: initial...

The SFT system developed by Esser is an electronic device primarily used for visualizing speech sounds in the therapy of severely hearing-impaired patients. This paper discusses first results in the diagnostic and therapeutic application of the SFT on persons with no hearing handicap. The range of application includes the articulation, its malfunctions, speech coordination and voice functions. Observations have shown that SFT representation supplementary to listener judgement permits a clear description of a series of features from the categories mentioned above. Phonetic disorders, speech coordination and certain voice functions can thus also be compared and documented directly. Its application as an optical feedback device in the course of articulatory and voice therapy as well as the adjustment of the SFT system to certain fields of application are discussed.