Speech impairments can significantly impact an individual’s ability to communicate effectively. For those with severe speech impairments or who are unable to speak due to medical reasons, speech generating devices serve as invaluable tools to supplement or replace speech or writing. UltraVoice, a groundbreaking speaking device, takes communication assistance to the next level. Unlike traditional keyboard-based systems, UltraVoice enables laryngectomees to speak in real time without the need to type their responses. In this article, we will explore the innovative technology behind UltraVoice and its simple yet powerful components that facilitate seamless verbal communication.
The UltraVoice Speaking Device:
The UltraVoice Speaking Device revolutionizes the way individuals with speech impairments communicate. Designed for laryngectomees, this device eliminates the need for typing and allows users to generate speech instantly. Despite its groundbreaking technology, UltraVoice remains incredibly user-friendly. Let’s delve into its major components:
Oral Unit:
The oral unit, a key component of UltraVoice, consists of three basic elements strategically positioned in the mouth. These components are either mounted into an upper denture or integrated into an orthodontic retainer, similar to those used for teeth straightening. This placement ensures optimal functionality and user comfort.
Loud Speaker:
UltraVoice incorporates a built-in loud speaker that produces a natural voice tone, simulating the sound of a larynx. Users shape their voice into speech patterns just as they would with their own voice box. To safeguard the loud speaker from saliva, food, and liquids, a flexible membrane covers it, ensuring longevity and reliability.
Radio Circuit:
The radio circuit, an essential part of UltraVoice, receives signals transmitted from the control unit. Its primary function involves converting these signals into electrical signals that drive the loud speaker. Operating similar to a radio, the circuit tunes in exclusively to the signals sent from the control unit.
Rechargeable Batteries:
To power both the loud speaker and the radio circuit, UltraVoice employs rechargeable batteries. These batteries resemble those commonly used in watches or hearing aids. They offer the necessary energy for an average day of talk time and can be conveniently recharged.
Control Unit:
The control unit acts as the brain of the UltraVoice Speaking Device. It houses a high-speed battery-powered computer responsible for sampling the user’s speech. This computer controls the prosody, which involves regulating the pitch fluctuations in the voice to produce natural-sounding speech. Additionally, the control unit features a loud speaker and amplifier, enhancing the volume of UltraVoice beyond that of other speech aids.
Charging Unit:
To ensure uninterrupted functionality, UltraVoice comes with a practical charging unit. Users can simultaneously recharge both the oral unit and the control unit overnight. A full charge typically requires approximately eight hours, providing users with an ample power reserve for the day ahead.
Hands-Free Switch:
UltraVoice now offers a hands-free option to further enhance user convenience. This feature proves particularly useful during telephone conversations when users may need to take messages. It also aids individuals while driving, allowing them to keep both hands on the wheel. Moreover, the hands-free switch becomes invaluable during job-related tasks that require manual dexterity, such as assembly operations.
Functioning of the Hands-Free Switch:
The UltraVoice Hands-Free Option operates as follows: The control unit includes a jack specifically designed for the hands-free switch. This switch possesses a Velcro back, enabling effortless attachment and removal from its mounting location. For optimal signal transmission, the control unit should be positioned with the unit pointing up when the switch is plugged in, and it should be placed 1½ to 3 feet away from the denture in the mouth.
Usage and Mounting Options:
The hands-free switch can be mounted on a table or desk leg, or affixed to a wheelchair arm. By applying slight pressure to activate the remote switch, the UltraVoice unit turns on. This pressure can be exerted through the movement of an arm, elbow, knee, or foot. Users can also place the switch on their underarm, knee, foot, elbow, or any other convenient body part that allows for easy positioning. Furthermore, the hands-free switch can be mounted on a telephone receiver, effortlessly activated by the hand holding the receiver.
Hands-Free Switch Option:
For enhanced versatility, the Hands-Free Switch plugs into the control unit and can be mounted anywhere within the user’s reach. This optional feature is available for $99.99, inclusive of packaging, shipping, and handling. If you have any queries regarding the UltraVoice Plus enhancement or the Hands-Free Switch, please do not hesitate to contact our customer support.
Suitability for People without Dentures:
UltraVoice caters to individuals without dentures as well. By utilizing smaller and thinner loudspeakers, along with compact batteries in the oral unit, UltraVoice introduces a retainer model that is lighter, smaller, and more comfortable than ever before. This new retainer model fits in the user’s mouth alongside their natural teeth, eliminating the need for dentures.
UltraVoice represents a groundbreaking leap in speech generating devices, providing individuals with severe speech impairments or medical limitations the ability to communicate verbally effectively. By utilizing its oral unit, loud speaker, radio circuit, rechargeable batteries, control unit, charging unit, and hands-free switch, UltraVoice offers a user-friendly and efficient solution for speech supplementation or replacement. With its innovative technology and commitment to user comfort, UltraVoice truly empowers individuals, fostering independence and improving their quality of life.
