TongueToSpeech (TTS): Wearable wireless assistive device for augmented speech

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Speech impairment significantly impacts communication abilities.
• Existing assistive communication methods may have limitations in real-time application.
• The need for non-invasive, wearable solutions for vocal augmentation is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate the TongueToSpeech (TTS) device for augmenting speech communication.
• To provide a real-time communication solution for vocally impaired individuals.
• To assess the performance of a novel tongue-controlled keyboard interface.

Main Methods:

• Development of a wearable wireless assistive device with an embedded capacitive touch keyboard within a retainer.
• Integration of the device with a Bluetooth connection to computers, tablets, or smartphones.
• Creation of a text-to-speech application to convert typed input into audible speech.
• User performance evaluation focusing on precision and speed with an 8-contact point configuration.

Main Results:

• The TongueToSpeech (TTS) device is a discrete, non-invasive, wearable assistive technology.
• An 8-contact point configuration was identified as optimal for user precision and speed.
• On average, typing with the TTS device took 2.5 times longer than traditional T9 keyboard input.

Conclusions:

• The developed TTS device offers a viable method for real-time communication for the vocally impaired.
• The wearable and discrete nature of the device enhances user accessibility and adoption.
• This technology represents a significant advancement in assistive communication tools.