Vocal tract imaging system for post-laryngectomy voice replacement

The article describes a system that uses real time measurements of the vocal tract to drive a voice-replacement system for post-laryngectomy patients. Based on a thermoformed acquisition helmet, miniature ultrasound machine, and video camera, and incorporating Hidden Markov Model speech recognition, the device has been tested on three speakers, one of whom has undergone a total laryngectomy. Results show that the device obtains exploitable recognition rates, and that performances on normal and post-laryngectomy speakers are nearly identical. The technique can also enable voice communication for normal speakers in situations where silence must be maintained.