A new wearable device has been developed by an international team of researchers to help stroke patients with dysarthria communicate more effectively. The device, known as the “intelligent throat” system, uses advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to process silent speech and emotional cues in real time. Unlike existing technologies, this system can translate silent speech into coherent, delay-free sentences while capturing emotional and contextual nuances. Tested on five dysarthria patients, the system achieved impressive results with a low word error rate and high user satisfaction. It is designed to provide personalized and expressive communication that accurately reflects the user’s intended meaning.
The wearable device features a choker embedded with graphene-based strain sensors for high sensitivity and comfort during daily use. A built-in wireless module ensures continuous data transmission with minimal energy consumption, allowing for all-day functionality. The system utilizes LLM agents to analyze speech tokens and emotional signals, refining and expanding sentences to match the user’s intended meaning in real time. The personalized approach of this device helps bridge the communication gap between patients with dysarthria and existing technological capabilities. In addition to aiding those with dysarthria, the researchers also envision broader applications for the device, including support for other neurological conditions such as ALS and Parkinson’s, as well as the potential for multilingual adaptations.
The research team is now focusing on miniaturizing the device and integrating it into edge-computing frameworks to improve usability. This will allow for even greater convenience and accessibility for users, further enhancing their communication abilities. The team’s ultimate goal is to provide a reliable and effective communication solution for individuals with dysarthria and other neurological conditions, empowering them to express themselves more easily and confidently. With ongoing advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, the future looks promising for improving communication and quality of life for those with speech disorders.
