ArticulAmp: Redesigned Prototype Electrolarynx
Course Instructor
Jeff Burmeister
Abstract
Many laryngeal cancer patients and trauma victims lose their ability to speak after undergoing laryngectomies, relying on devices that inadequately replicate natural speech such as an electrolarynx. Traditional electrolarynx devices are predominantly handheld, produce monotonous, robotic tones, and lack ergonomic and intuitive design features. The ArticulAmp is a redesigned electrolarynx prototype that addresses these limitations by delivering a wearable solution with enhanced tonal quality, adjustability, and user comfort - bridging the gap between functionality, accessibility, and human-centered design.
The ArticulAmp's design employs two vibration modules powered by eccentric rotating mass (ERM) vibration motors placed on both sides of the neck with a comfortable elastic band to simulate vocal cord vibrations. A compact controller, worn at the hip, allows for real-time adjustment of pitch and volume, offering both portability and ease of use. The materials selected for the housing and vibration modules prioritize skin compatibility, comfort, and easy sanitation.
The ArticulAmp is an innovative leap forward in affordable, accessible, and dignified speech restoration technology. By enabling more natural and effortless communication, it supports greater independence and confidence for individuals who have lost their voice. With its user-centric design and potential clinical application, ArticulAmp has the potential to improve quality of life for thousands of patients while setting a new benchmark in electrolarynx products.
ArticulAmp: Redesigned Prototype Electrolarynx
Many laryngeal cancer patients and trauma victims lose their ability to speak after undergoing laryngectomies, relying on devices that inadequately replicate natural speech such as an electrolarynx. Traditional electrolarynx devices are predominantly handheld, produce monotonous, robotic tones, and lack ergonomic and intuitive design features. The ArticulAmp is a redesigned electrolarynx prototype that addresses these limitations by delivering a wearable solution with enhanced tonal quality, adjustability, and user comfort - bridging the gap between functionality, accessibility, and human-centered design.
The ArticulAmp's design employs two vibration modules powered by eccentric rotating mass (ERM) vibration motors placed on both sides of the neck with a comfortable elastic band to simulate vocal cord vibrations. A compact controller, worn at the hip, allows for real-time adjustment of pitch and volume, offering both portability and ease of use. The materials selected for the housing and vibration modules prioritize skin compatibility, comfort, and easy sanitation.
The ArticulAmp is an innovative leap forward in affordable, accessible, and dignified speech restoration technology. By enabling more natural and effortless communication, it supports greater independence and confidence for individuals who have lost their voice. With its user-centric design and potential clinical application, ArticulAmp has the potential to improve quality of life for thousands of patients while setting a new benchmark in electrolarynx products.
