UCLA engineers develop a new wearable device for voice restoration

The device, described in Nature Communications, is a soft, stretchy patch that attaches to the skin outside the throat. It captures movements in the larynx muscles and, with nearly 95 percent accuracy, translates these into audible speech using machine-learning technology. This bioelectric system represents a novel method for aiding individuals in regaining their voice function.

How the device works

• Sensing Component: Detects muscle movements and converts them into electrical signals.
• Actuation Component: Transforms speech signals into voice expressions.
• Material Composition: Consists of a biocompatible silicone compound (PDMS) and a magnetic induction layer, facilitating high-fidelity signal generation.
• Machine Learning Integration: Employs algorithms to match muscle movement data with corresponding words, achieving a high accuracy rate in voice prediction.

The UCLA team, led by Jun Chen, an assistant professor of bioengineering, envisions this technology as a game-changer for those with disabilities, building on their previous achievements in wearable communication devices. The patch's non-invasive nature and ease of use present a comfortable alternative to existing solutions, which can be inconvenient or uncomfortable.

Preliminary testing on healthy adults has shown promising results, with plans to expand the device's vocabulary and conduct trials with individuals experiencing speech disorders. The ultimate goal is to provide a wearable, non-invasive solution for patient communication during treatment and recovery phases of voice disorders.

The research, supported by the National Institutes of Health and other institutions, was a collaborative effort among UCLA Samueli School of Engineering's graduate students, all contributing to the promising outcomes of this innovative project.

This development opens new doors for enhancing the quality of life for those with voice disorders, marking a significant advancement in wearable health technology and speech restoration methods.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: University of California, Los Angeles