Identifier

etd-11112010-150548

Degree

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Vocal intensity-related speech disorders such as dysarthria and vocal nodules can limit quality of life and reduce the patient’s ability to interact with family, socialize, or pursue employment. Behavioral speech therapies exist to address these issues but have limited effectiveness because they are expensive and clinic-based. The ability to monitor vocal intensity outside of the clinical setting will greatly aid in the treatment of these speech disorders, enabling patients to make quicker progress by reinforcing techniques learned in the clinic. The Voice Volume Monitor (VVM) is a portable and cost-effective therapeutic aid designed for this purpose, providing real-time feedback regarding speech volume to the user. Initial testing of a prototype with patients at the Our Lady of the Lake Voice Center has shown positive results.

Date

2010

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

de Queiroz, Marcio

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.2837

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