Abstract: An electronic toy appliance for use with interchangeable graspable objects such as blocks or tiles, the toy appliance designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing a speech problem includes the steps of presenting to a student/user a symbol representative of a word and prompting the user to pronounce the word represented by the symbol into a microphone in signal communication with a processor. Next the therapist enters a phonetic representation of the user pronunciation into the processor. It is then automatically determined whether an error exists in the user pronunciation. If an error exists, the error is automatically categorized. The system and method may be adapted for presentation of a single word, a plurality of words having a predetermined feature desired to be tested, a pretest for screening for potential articulation disorders, and an analysis of connected speech with the use of a moving picture to elicit a narrative from the student.

Abstract: This invention, designed primarily for teachers, is a computer based self-teaching instructional device covering the sound patterns of American English and covering sounds in words all the way from cat to tetrahydrocannabinal. Teachers can create their own lesson plans and enhance their student's work learning experiences by the us e of both aural inputs and visual displays.

Abstract: An electronic toy designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the toy comprising an object having a plurality of sides, the object adapted for lateral movement and rotational manipulation by a child on a substantially horizontal surface so that the child can laterally move the object on the substantially horizontal surface and select different sides of the object to face upwardly.

Abstract: An electronic toy appliance designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the toy comprising an object having a plurality of substantially planar sides adapted for manipulation by a child on a substantially flat surface so that a child may select different sides of the object to face upwardly. The appliance prompts the child with more difficult prompts depending on the child having provided correct previous responses.

Abstract: A data processing system collects video and audio samples of acceptable speech production. A video camera focuses on a speaker's face and, particularly, articulation visible in the area of the mouth or other body movements associated with speech production. Video files are used to archive acceptable and unacceptable productions. These files may then be used to provide feedback about acceptable and unacceptable ways to produce speech. A speech professional or language teacher may play a model speech production and a subject speech attempt simultaneously to compare articulation, audio analysis, and appearance of articulators. A subject may play a model speech production and record a speech attempt simultaneously to attempt to mimic the appearance of articulators. Image processing may be used to create a mirror image of a video model or a current attempt or both to avoid left-right confusion.

Abstract: A Chinese spelling input system and method with the multimedia Chinese spelling learning function is disclosed. Through expandable multimedia learning materials, one can quickly learn the tricks and skills in Chinese spelling input without the limitation of the software platform. The invention further provides a learning process recording function for the user to review learning. The disclosed method includes at least the following steps: starting an input method interface through hot keys, running a learning materials generating module by clicking, the learning materials generating module generating learning materials, and a learning process recording module storing learning data. The disclosed system includes at least an interface function starting module, a learning materials generating module, an output presentation control module, and a learning process recording module.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing a speech problem includes the steps of presenting a symbol representative of a word and prompting the user to pronounce the word represented by the symbol into an audio input device such as a microphone in signal communication with a processor. Next the therapist enters a phonetic representation of the user pronunciation into an operator input and storage device, the phonetic representation subsequently downloaded into the processor. It is then automatically determined whether an error exists in the user pronunciation. If an error exists, the error is automatically categorized.

Abstract: A portable electronic device is selectively connected to a master. Durring conection, a plurality of conversation scripts and associated dictionay are downloaded to provide a video game comprising a virtual pet, which game is capable of being executed independently from the master. The virtual pet is able to provide an interactive conversation with a user by the use of the script programs and a dictionary. In addition, the user is able to teach the virtual pet new words. Attributes of the words are modified when the user teaches the pet the words, and their intended meaning, and durring later conversations. The attributes are modified based upon the responses of a user to questions asked by the pet. The user responds by selection of one of a number of possible replies.

Abstract: There is provided an apparatus and method for assisting speech recovery in people with inability to speak due to aphasia, apraxia or another condition with similar effect. A hollow, rigid, thin-walled tube with semi-circular or semi-elliptical cut out shapes at each open end is positioned such that one end mates with the throat/voice box area of the neck of the assistor and the other end mates with the throat/voice box area of the assisted. The speaking person (assistor) makes sounds that produce standing wave vibrations at the same frequency in the vocal cords of the assisted person. Driving the assisted person's vocal cords with the assisted person being able to hear the correct tone enables the assisted person to speak by simply amplifying the vibration of membranes in their throat.

Abstract: A method for providing speech therapy includes the steps of selecting a problem speech sound and searching a database that houses a plurality of records. Each record contains a picture and a word associated with the word. Next a set of records is automatically generated from the plurality of records. Each record contains a word specific to the problem speech's sound. At least a portion of each record in the set of records is next automatically presented to a user sequentially on a display device, and the user is prompted to pronounce the displayed word. Finally, the pronunciation of each word is scored. The system includes hardware for carrying out the method, including a processor, display device, input device, and software resident on the processor adapted to access a database of records, present records to the user, and receive a score entered into the input device.

Abstract: A toy box includes a lid pivotally attached to a base so as to define an internal cavity which can store one or more toys therein. An audio box is disposed within the cavity for transmitting pre-recorded audio messages through a speaker which encourages the placement of toys within the cavity. A sensor is electronically connected to the audio box for activating the audio box upon a predetermined event, such as the detection of light by the opening of the lid, or placement of toys within the cavity.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a speech training device which can be put on the mouth and on the face around the mouth of a user of the speech training device for directly transmitting a sound pronounced by the user of the speech training device to the ears of the user so that speech training is efficiently performed.

Abstract: A system and method for learning language through a role-playing game. The role-playing game integrates the learning process of making sentences. The game includes role and situation simulations, interactive learning and versatile scene and events. Therefore, the learner feels interested, pays attention to learning and fully utilizes his or her imagination and memorization so that learning can be efficiently achieved.

Abstract: A method for performing a transaction without the use of spoken communication is disclosed. The method consists of providing at least one transactional flash card having information about the transaction and the transaction goal displayed on the card in text understandable to the user and different text understandable to the party from whom the user wishes to purchase goods or services. The method may include displaying such a flash card in printed form, or on a personal electronic device. The method may further include providing flash cards having inquiries about price, payment methods, or shipping terms. Also disclosed are transactional flash cards used with the method.

Abstract: A method and system for translating, learning and speaking a foreign language are disclosed. The method comprises the steps of selecting a word or phrase in a known language which needs to be expressed in a foreign language, locating the word or phrase in a provided manual text, reading the manual text and a provided transition guide, and speaking the desired word or phrase in the foreign language. The system comprises a manual text comprising a plurality of pages bound together at a spine containing three columns and at least one row of text. The first column contain word(s) or phrases in a known language, the second column contains corresponding word(s) or phrases in a foreign language, and the third column contains a transition guide for aiding in the proper pronunciation of the foreign language.

Abstract: A learning system has at least one printed entity comprising lesson information in an ordered series of one or more of sentences, phrases, pictures, or alphanumeric representations, a digital data tape cassette having recorded thereon data for digital audio files comprising one or both of vocal renditions of individual ones of the sentences or phrases, vocal renditions related to entities in the pictures, or information files, and a player for rendering the audio files audible, the player having a reader for receiving data from the digital tape cassette and storing the data in an internal random-access memory (RAM), and having a user interface for selecting and initiating playing of individual ones of the files, individually or in a pre-determined order from the RAM.

Abstract: Structure providing sessions of a prolonged spinning therapeutic modality that affects the biological occupant therein stimulating, exercising and strengthening the occupant's R.A.S in combination with other stimuli that affect the organism with different types of physiological and neurological stimuli such that several unique types of input affect the organism synergistically to provide a far greater therapeutic benefit than the prior art showed by using such stimulus devices individually.

Abstract: A system for reading training for improving a subject's reading speed and comprehension. The reader reads aloud into a microphone attached to an amplifier and headset. The amplifier filters out the low frequency sounds and emphasizes the high and mid-range frequency sounds as the sounds are directed to the reader's dominant ear, which allows the reader to listen attentively with his or her dominant ear, clarifying perception and speeding the listening process. The reader is taught reading protocol, such as emphasizing, pronunciation, articulation, breathing, pausing. The reader intermittently looks into a mirror placed strategically so that he or she can observe posture and lip movement and make adjustments to these reading protocol components. The reader repeats the reading aloud and feedback until reading speed and comprehension are improved to the desired level. The reading improvement training system (inclusive of training tools and method of using the tools) improves reading skills, e.g.

Abstract: A computer-implemented techniques for improving reading proficiency. A segment of text is displayed on a video screen. An audio narration of the displayed text is generated from stored audio data derived from a custom reading in natural voice of the entire text segment. The words in the displayed text are highlighted during the audio narration, with each word being highlighted in synchronism to its narration. A visual track is created through the text by highlighting the current word, the previously narrated words and the yet-to-be-narrated words with respectively distinctive highlighting. A phonetic pronunciation with synchronized highlighting of the phonemes is also available. In addition, contextual word definitions are provided.

Abstract: A tongue lifting tool and method for using such tool are provided. The tool has a tongue holder for supporting a patient's tongue and a holding portion coupled to the tongue holder.

Abstract: The combination of audio and video speech recognition in a manner to improve the robustness of speech recognition systems in noisy environments. Contemplated are methods and apparatus in which a video signal associated with a video source and an audio signal associated with the video signal are processed, the most likely viseme associated with the audio signal and video signal is determined and, thereafter, the most likely phoneme associated with the audio signal and video signal is determined.

Abstract: A portable speech therapy device that enables post-operative cancer patients to practice voice exercises without direct supervision by activating a series of colored indicator lights in predetermined patterns associated with push-button actuation switches. The patient is initially taught to make a certain sound when an associated indicator light is turned on, and then allowed to practice with the device at home. The sequences associated with each actuation switch are made progressively more challenging as the patient masters the sequences associated with each switch (e.g., progressively shorter time periods allowed response, progressively greater number of prompts, or different patterns in which the colored indicators are turned on). The device is field programmable to allow the doctor to tailor sequences to correspond with a patient's recovery progress.

Abstract: A method for training of auditory and graphical discrimination in humans, and a human's short term memory, is provided within an animated game environment. The method provides a number of stimulus sets, each stimulus set having similar sounding phonemes associated with graphemes. Upon initiation of a trial, a grid of tiles is presented to a subject. The subject selects the tiles, one at a time. As the tiles are selected, an associated phoneme is presented to the subject. The subject clears away tiles by pairing them with identical tiles. When all the tiles in a trial are cleared, the subject is either promoted or demoted in skill level. Promotion/demotion varies the number of tiles presented, the phonemes used within each trial, and the amount of audio processing that is applied to the phonemes.

Abstract: An elongated tool (10) said tool-having opening at each end (14,42). Said first opening can be adjustable for colored dots or symbols. Said adjustments by any material can be held in place by glue or tape (14). Colored dots or symbols are used with shaded or colored card chart. (22), having approximately ½ inch shaded or bright colors or symbols. Said colored dots or symbols (30) are staggered throughout the card chart (22), said tool (10) is used to scan squares through opening (14) Said patient will speak where location dots or symbols (30) opening (14) tool (10). This timing coordinates the articulatory systems thus improving enumerciation of words. Said second opening (42) located opposite end has lengths and height larger enough to read only one word, this will regulate rate of speed enabling patient to pronounce words more clearly.

Abstract: A method and system for testing the speech intelligibility of a child comprises providing a set of target sounds as words in the presence and absence of competing sound(s) of a variety of types so as to enable an analysis of the aspects of competing sounds and their respective effects on the speech intelligibility of a child. Locations at which competing sound(s) is provided is varied to enable an evaluation of its effect on the spatial release from masking. The target words used in the test are first determined to be within the vocabulary of the child. The child is required to respond to the target word by selecting a picture representation of the target word from among several picture choices, thus providing an interactive aspect to the test. There may optionally be provided a positive or a negative reinforcement. The sound level at which the target words are presented may vary adaptively according to the child's responses, the change in sound level being determined by a set of rules.

Abstract: A learning system method for infants, toddlers and young children which uses selected visuals stored on an audiovisual storage and playback device in conjunction with unique flash cards to provide an enhanced learning experience.

Abstract: A method for performing a transaction without the use of spoken communication is disclosed. The method consists of providing at least one transactional flash card having information about the transaction and the transaction goal displayed on the card in text understandable to the user and different text understandable to the party from whom the user wishes to purchase goods or services. The method may include displaying such a flash card in printed form, or on a personal electronic device. The method may further include providing flash cards having inquiries about price, payment methods, or shipping terms. Also disclosed are transactional flash cards used with the method.

Abstract: A computer-based method of providing reading instruction to a student. The software program implemented in a computer-based environment provides a balanced approach to reading based on different programmed components namely phonemic awareness reading subskills and reading comprehension. The program sets out a predefined sequence which incorporates the aforementioned components in a manner which develops enhanced reading ability and improved comprehension.

Abstract: A portable speech therapy device that enables postoperative cancer patients to practice voice exercises without direct supervision by activating a series of colored indicator lights in predetermined patterns associated with push-button actuation switches. The patient is initially taught to make a certain sound when an associated indicator light is turned on, and then allowed to practice with the device at home. The sequences associated with each actuation switch are made progressively more challenging as the patient masters the sequences associated with each switch (e.g., progressively shorter time periods allowed response, progressively greater number of prompts, or different patterns in which the colored indicators are turned on). The device is field programmable to allow the doctor to tailor sequences to correspond with a patient's recovery progress.

Abstract: A method and system provides procedures/routines to teach certain repertoires, such as reading, to learners without a teacher present. The various routines can be provided or implemented via a computer network, such as the Internet, so that multiple learners can access and use the routines. Feedback features take into account that the Internet is a medium where it is difficult to directly monitor the learner's activities during the course of various lessons provided by the routines. The routines may be implemented in a sequence of episodes, with each episode systematically building on the particular skills learned in a prior episode. Some of these routines include establishing routines, adduction routines, potentiating routines, composite routines, sequential composite routines, fluency routines, motivation routines, application routines, and the overall sequencing of these routines.

Abstract: A pronunciation practice system, device and method allows the user, while watching the television screen, to speak-the part of the character which has been selectively turned off, and to check his pronunciation with the subtitle or voice playback simultaneously or successively, thus making it possible to learn a language enjoyably and effectively while at the same time watching attractive images and listening to music. The system, device and method allow pronunciation to be practiced effectively by selecting a first sound signal and a second sound signal from a first sound channel CH1 and a second sound channel CH2, turning at least one of the voices from one of the channels off, and processing this voice which has been turned off with the aid of mixers and a speaker with attached microphone.

Abstract: A method for producing an output in response to an interaction with a print element on a sheet is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes placing a sheet comprising a print element on a surface of a base unit. A user can then mark on the sheet in the vicinity of the print element with a marking instrument. An audio output that corresponds to the print element is generated.

Abstract: An integrated method which uses multiple sensory materials with a voice recording and playback system. The system teaches multiple parts of a language by a series program covering each aspect of a language. Aspects covered by the program include sound word teaching, sentence teaching, spelling word teaching, and writing teaching. The system teaches initial letter sounds, vowel sounds, consonant sound, consonant combinations, spelling alternatives, the addition of endings to works, making plural words, and spelling rules. The system progresses into additional sessions by adding additional spelling, increasing the difficulty of the words used, and adding dictation passages to translate words and sentences into thought processes.

Abstract: The invention is a system for sound file recording, comparison, and archiving for network-based language and communications training, or other applications. The invention allows capture of multimedia data from a user, and allows the user to play back his or her self-created sound inputs and to view various comparisons of his or her sound inputs with model sounds. The invention displays a waveform or spectrogram of a model sound superimposed over a waveform (or spectrogram) of the user's sound input. It can display a failure/success indication for the user's sound input relative to a predetermined standard. Further, the invention allows a user to archive sound files for subsequent review and analysis.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: In order to provide an image display method and apparatus capable of displaying images corresponding to document data or speech data, image data (such as sign language images) are stored in an image dictionary in motion picture form. Document data is read out from a character information storage device (or speech data is received), and a sign language image corresponding to a character string of the document data (or the speech) is selected from the image dictionary and displayed on a display.

Abstract: Methods and systems for handling speech recognition processing in effectively real-time, via the internet, in order that users do not experience noticeable delays from the start of an exercise until they receive responsive feedback. A user uses a client to access the internet and a server supporting speech recognition processing, e.g., for language learning activities. The user inputs speech to the client, which transmits the user speech to the server in approximate real-time. The server evaluates the user speech in context of the current speech recognition exercise being executed, and provides responsive feedback to the client, again, in approximate real-time, with minimum latency delays. The client upon receiving responsive feedback from the server, displays, or otherwise provides, the feedback to the user.

Abstract: A system and method for synthesizing a facial image, compares a speech frame from an incoming speech signal with acoustic features stored within visually similar entries in an audio-visual codebook to produce a set of weights. The audio-visual codebook also stores visual features corresponding to the acoustic features. A composite visual feature is generated as a weighted sum of the corresponding visual features, from which the facial image is synthesized. The audio-visual codebook may include multiple samples of the acoustic and visual features for each entry, which corresponds to a sequence of one or more phonemes.

Abstract: A method of navigating textual information via auditory indicators is provided. Through the pervasive and immediate articulation of virtually all textual elements in response to a comparatively passive action, such as a selection device rollover, a user may quickly peruse titles, headings, list items, and so on, as well as emphasized text, paragraphs, captions, and virtually any unit of visually contiguous text. A user may also hear a particular selected word via a slightly more active action, such as clicking a mouse button. Via use of this method, a child, or other user who may understand a language, but not be able to recognize its orthography, may successfully and easily navigate textual documents.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in-the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A language teaching device utilizes video with audio components of several languages, typically two. The various characters in the video can speak in the several languages. Using simple point-and-click technology, a user can have each of the various characters speak in any of the several languages, enabling arbitrary combination of character-language pairs.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system for assisting a user with a speech disorder. This system generally consists of a microphone connected electronically or by radio to an ear plug. The microphone receives the voice signal from the user and transmits it to the ear plug. At either the microphone or the ear plug or a third device, the voice signal is altered so that the frequency is changed. This allows the user to hear what he or she is saying but at a different pitch.

Abstract: A speech segment search unit searches a speech database for speech segments that satisfy a phonetic environment, and a HMM learning unit computes the HMMs of phonemes on the basis of the search result. A segment recognition unit performs segment recognition of speech segments on the basis of the computed HMMs of the phonemes, and when the phoneme of the segment recognition result is equal to a phoneme of the source speech segment, that speech segment is registered in a segment dictionary.

Abstract: Apparatus for interactive speech training having an audio specimen generator for playing a pre-recorded reference audio specimen to a user for attempted repetition by the user and a reference audio specimen library in which reference audio specimens are stored and to which the audio specimen generator has access. The audio specimen library contains a multiplicity of recordings of speaker dependent audio specimens produced by a plurality of speech models. A speaker independent parameter database stores a plurality of speaker independent references which are different from the reference audio specimens stored in the reference audio specimen library. The speaker independent references are classified according to at least one of age, gender or dialect, but is independent of other speaker characteristics within each category.