UVM Reference Number: C0967
Summary:
An advanced communication software for individuals with ALS speeds text-to-speech input times and makes generating speech easier, enables real-time conversation, and allows for more effective interpersonal interaction.
Technology Overview:
Many individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or other disorders that impair speech rely on assistive technologies to communicate. These tools often use text-to-speech, with techniques like eye tracking used to input letters one at a time. To circumvent the problems caused by slow word and sentence construction, FOSTER uses a novel combination of a search algorithm and user-defined shorthand letter codes to auto-fill words based on just a few letters. By increasing the efficiency of assistive speech technology, FOSTER can reduce input time over 40%, alleviating user exhaustion and facilitating clear, real-time communication.
Advantages:
• Compatible - works with many different operating systems and devices
• User-friendly - does not require as many movements as existing technologies
• Rapid - increases communication speed
Applications:
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Dysarthria caused by brain injury or tumor
• Guillain-Barre syndrome
• Cerebral palsy
• Huntington’s disease
Seeking:
• Licensing
• Development partner
