A pressure-sensitive palatograph for speech analysis.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Speech Science

Background:

• Electropalatography (EPG) is crucial for monitoring tongue-palate contact and improving articulation.
• Existing EPG tools offer good spatial resolution but lack quantitative pressure sensing capabilities.
• There is a need for advanced EPG systems that provide both spatial and pressure data for comprehensive speech analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an innovative EPG tool using textile-based sensing technologies.
• To integrate quantitative pressure detection with high spatial resolution in an EPG device.
• To assess the efficacy of textile sensors for measuring tongue pressure during speech.

Main Methods:

• A novel sensing unit was designed using a thin polymeric sheet between two piezoresistive fabric layers.
• The sensor measures pressure by detecting resistance changes when textile layers contact under load (0-30 kPa).
• A 62-unit matrix prototype was constructed on an acrylic palate, covered with a latex membrane.

Main Results:

• The textile-based EPG system successfully maintained spatial resolution comparable to commercial tools.
• The device accurately measured tongue pressure in the 0-30 kPa range.
• Experimental testing on a healthy subject demonstrated the system's effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Textile-based sensing technology is suitable for developing advanced EPG devices.
• The innovative EPG tool effectively measures tongue pressure during speech production.
• This technology has the potential to significantly advance speech therapy and articulation research.