Algorithms, hardware, and software for a digital signal processor microcomputer-based speech processor in a multielectrode cochlear implant system

The authors discuss software and hardware developed to create a powerful, inexpensive, compact digital signal processing system that in real time extracts a low-bit-rate linear predictive coding (LPC) speech system model. The model parameters derived include accurate spectral envelope, format, pitch, and amplitude information. The system is based on the Texas Instruments TMS320 family, and the most compact realization requires only three chips (TMS320E17, A/D-D/A, op-amp), consuming a total of less than 0.5 W. The processor is part of a programmable cochlear implant system under development by a multi-university Canadian team, but also the speech features extracted can serve as input to vibrotactile and visual aids to the hearing handicapped.