Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research (IC&SR) , IIT Madras
A 3D Printed Biomechanical Electrolarynx Device for Voice Rehabilitation of Laryngectomees
Categories for this Invention
Category – Assistive Devices
Applications – Voice Rehabilitation, Assistive Technology for Speech Impairments.
Industry – Medical Devices, Healthcare
Market- Global Voice Restoration Devices Market was valued at US$ 531 million in 2022 and is estimated to reach US$ 602 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 9.6%.
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Problem Statement
- Electrolarynx devices suffer from reduced intelligibility, monotonous speech, and unnatural sound quality, impacting communication effectiveness for laryngectomy patients.
- Current electrolarynx solutions lack fine control over pitch and loudness variation, limiting the user’s ability to express emotions and nuances in speech.
- Existing electrolarynx devices often require continuous manual activation, causing inconvenience and restricting the user’s mobility and activities.
Technology
- The present invention relates to a speech aid device and more particularly relates to a biomechanical electrolarynx device for voice rehabilitation of laryngectomees after laryngectomy
- The present invention aims to create a cost-effective, lightweight, and user-friendly electrolarynx system for voice rehabilitation of laryngectomy patients.
- It features a mechanical electrolarynx device comprising a transducer powered by an electric motor, converting electrical energy into mechanical vibrations to stimulate the patient’s vocal cords.
- Through a custom-designed transducer mechanism, vibrations are transmitted to the patient’s throat, enabling speech production with minimal modulation from tongue and mouth movements.
Key Features / Value Proposition
Cost Efficiency:
- Offering a cost-effective solution for voice rehabilitation post-laryngectomy, reducing financial burden on patients.
Lightweight Design:
- Providing a portable and ergonomic electrolarynx system, enhancing user comfort and mobility.
User-Friendly Interface:
- Simplifying operation and maintenance for laryngectomy patients, ensuring ease of use and accessibility.
Low Power Consumption:
- Maximizing battery life with efficient energy utilization, minimizing downtime for recharging.
Enhanced Speech Quality:
- Improving speech intelligibility and naturalness through mechanical vibration technology, promoting effective communication.
Customized Transducer:
- Tailoring vibration patterns to stimulate vocal cords, optimizing speech production with minimal effort from users.
Questions about this Technology?
Contact For Licensing
sm-marketing@imail.iitm.ac.in
ipoffice2@iitm.ac.in
Research Lab
Prof. Boby George
Department of Electrical Engineering
Intellectual Property
- IITM IDF Ref. 1723
- IN 497157 – Patent Granted
Technology Readiness Level
TRL – 4
Technology validated in lab scale.