A simple portable voiced, unvoiced and "s" indicator

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Assistive Technology
• Audiology

Background:

• Speech training aids are crucial for individuals with communication disorders.
• Existing aids can be expensive or lack portability.
• The R.N.I.D. developed a new, economical speech training device.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the V.S.F. indicator, a novel speech training aid.
• To describe the functionality and application of the V.S.F. indicator.
• To report preliminary findings on its effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• The V.S.F. indicator utilizes a microphone to capture speech.
• Three vertically arranged lamps classify sounds: voiced (red), fricative excluding "s" (amber), and "s" sounds (green).
• Lamp operation is based on low-frequency energy and zero-crossing rates.

Main Results:

• Informal trials were conducted in various special clinics.
• The device demonstrated utility with profoundly deaf children and adults.
• Speech therapists reported positive responses from children with communication disorders.

Conclusions:

• The V.S.F. indicator is a promising, portable, and economical speech training aid.
• It appears particularly beneficial for individuals with profound hearing loss.
• Further research may explore its broader applications in speech therapy.