Voice production aid

Abstract

The sound production assisting device includes a wearing body to be worn in a mouth of a person, having a facing portion facing an upper palate of the person; a vibrating plate provided at the facing portion, capable of outputting a sound recorded by a device having a recording function as an original sound; and a passage provided at the facing portion, transmitting the original sound output from the vibrating plate to a rear side in the mouth.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a sound-generating auxiliary device. Background Technology

[0002] As a voice-generating aid, there are voice-generating aids such as artificial larynxes disclosed in the following Japanese Patent Publication No. 8-501950, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-192851, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-24688, and Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2012-0034395.

[0003] The artificial larynx disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-501950 comprises a first unit installed in the mouth and a second unit held in the hand. The first unit includes a denture, a loudspeaker, a power amplifier, a built-in power supply, and a wireless receiver. The second unit includes an input control device, a built-in power supply, electronic circuitry that allows the user to modify the frequency and volume generated by the unit in the mouth, and a transmitter.

[0004] The sound-generating auxiliary device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-192851 includes a loudspeaker, a housing, a sound generator, and a switch. The housing transmits the sound generated by the loudspeaker to a person's nostrils, the sound generator causes the loudspeaker to generate sound containing frequency components that resonate in the person's oral cavity, and the switch toggles whether the sound generator causes the loudspeaker to generate sound.

[0005] The electronic artificial larynx disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 8-24688 includes a bioinformation detection component and a control component, wherein the control component controls the basic frequency and volume of a substitute sound source output from a sound converter based on the bioinformation detected by the bioinformation detection component.

[0006] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2012-0034395 discloses an artificial larynx device with a speaker disposed in the central part of the hard palate. Summary of the Invention

[0007] For example, when producing a plosive sound generated by the tongue separating from the palate, if the original sound source is sounded further forward than the point where the tongue contacts / separates from the palate, the plosive sound is difficult to produce because it cannot be masked. Therefore, the original sound is best sounded from the back of the oral cavity.

[0008] In view of the above facts, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a vocalization aid that enables the original sound to resonate from the back of the oral cavity.

[0009] The voice-generating aid device disclosed herein comprises: a wearable body, worn inside a person's mouth, having an opposing portion facing the person's palate; a vibrating plate disposed in the opposing portion, capable of outputting sound recorded by a device having a recording function as the original sound; and a channel disposed in the opposing portion, transmitting the original sound output from the vibrating plate to the posterior side inside the mouth.

[0010] The voice-generating aid device disclosed herein comprises: a wearable body, worn inside a person's mouth, having an opposing part facing the person's palate and capable of moving up and down with the front side as a fulcrum; and a vibrating plate disposed in the opposing part, capable of outputting sound recorded by a device with a recording function as the original sound output.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] As described above, the voice-generating aid device according to this disclosure has the excellent effect of being able to produce the original sound from the back of the oral cavity. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a side view showing an example of the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a modified version of the wearer in the voice-generating assistive device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the external device according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the processor of the external device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the second embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a side view showing an example of the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the third embodiment.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a side view showing an example of the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a side view showing an example of a modified loudspeaker in the sound-generating auxiliary device according to the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings.

[0024] <First Implementation>

[0025] The structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the sound-generating auxiliary device 10 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0026] Figure 1 The vocalization aid 10 shown is a device that assists a person in producing sound. Specifically, the vocalization aid 10 causes the original sound to be produced inside the person's oral cavity. Thus, the original sound produced inside the oral cavity is articulated into speech sounds (i.e., consonants and vowels) by articulatory organs such as the lips or tongue, thereby producing sound. In addition, in this specification, "original sound" refers to the sound that becomes the source of sound production.

[0027] As an example, the voice assist device 10 can be used by people who have had their larynx removed due to illness or other reasons, or by people who have had their trachea cut open due to the use of a ventilator or other means. It should be noted that the voice assist device 10 can also be used as a device capable of altering one's voice to speak (i.e., a voice changer) and as a musical instrument similar to a tuner. Therefore, the voice assist device 10 can also be used by healthy individuals.

[0028] In this embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the sound-generating auxiliary device 10 has an internal device 20 and an external device 50. The specific structures of the internal device 20 and the external device 50 will be described below.

[0029] <Internal Device 20>

[0030] The internal device 20 is a device worn inside a person's mouth. Therefore, the internal device 20 can also be called a wearing device. In the following text, the person wearing the internal device 20 will sometimes be referred to as the wearer 90. Figure 1 As shown, the internal device 20 includes a dental brace 22, a speaker 24, a power supply 26, and a communication unit 28.

[0031] <Braces 22>

[0032] The brace 22 is a component worn inside the mouth of the wearer 90, and is an example of a wearer. The brace 22 is worn in the mouth of the wearer 90 in a predetermined direction. More specifically, the brace 22 is worn at a predetermined position inside the mouth of the wearer 90. Specifically, the brace 22 has a wearing portion 22A that wears on the upper teeth 92 of the wearer 90 and a mounting portion 22B that faces the hard palate 94. The mounting portion 22B is an example of an facing portion.

[0033] The wearing part 22A is formed in a U-shape with a posterior opening inside the mouth of the wearer 90 when viewed from below. It should be noted that "viewing from below" in this specification refers to the view from below to above when the braces 22 are worn inside the mouth of the wearer 90 (hereinafter referred to as the "wearing state of the braces 22"). The wearing part 22A is worn on the teeth 92 in a manner that covers the outer peripheral surface, inner peripheral surface, and occlusal surface of the teeth 92. It should be noted that the up-down, left-right, and front-back directions in the following description refer to the directions within the mouth when the braces 22 are worn.

[0034] The mounting portion 22B is disposed along the palate 94 and is connected to the upper end of the wearing portion 22A on the inner periphery side. The mounting portion 22B is a component for mounting the speaker 24, etc. It can also be said that the wearing portion 22A has the function of keeping the mounting portion 22B disposed on the palate 94. It should be noted that the mounting portion 22B only needs to be disposed facing the palate 94, but does not necessarily need to be in contact with the palate 94, and can have a gap relative to the palate 94.

[0035] For example, resin materials such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane, and polyethylene (PE) can be used as materials for braces 22. However, braces 22 are not limited to the above-mentioned materials and various other materials can be used. Braces 22 can be braces designed to fit the wearer's teeth at a 90-degree angle, or they can be standard, universal braces.

[0036] It should be noted that, as an example of a wearer, the mounting part 22B is configured to face the palate 94. Therefore, the wearing part 22A can be a structure that is not worn on all the teeth in the dental arch 92, but on a portion of the teeth in the dental arch 92 (e.g., multiple teeth on the posterior side).

[0037] <Speaker 24>

[0038] The loudspeaker 24 is a device that converts electrical signals (i.e., electrical vibrations) into sound (i.e., physical vibrations). The loudspeaker 24 has a housing 24A, a diaphragm 24B, a channel 24C, and an amplifier (not shown). The loudspeaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) is mounted to the mounting portion 22B of the dental brace 22. Thus, the various components of the loudspeaker 24 (specifically, the diaphragm 24B, the channel 24C, and the amplifier (not shown)) are disposed on the mounting portion 22B.

[0039] The shell 24A is formed into a flat shape that is thinner in the vertical direction and expands in the horizontal and front-back directions. That is, the shell 24A is formed into a plate shape in the vertical direction, which is the thickness direction.

[0040] The vibrating plate 24B is housed within the housing 24A. The vibrating plate 24B converts electrical signals into sound and outputs the original sound. An outlet 24D for emitting the original sound is formed at the rear end of the housing 24A.

[0041] Channel 24C is formed inside housing 24A. Specifically, channel 24C is formed by being surrounded by housing 24A in the upper, lower, left, and right sides within the oral cavity. That is, housing 24A has an upper wall, a lower wall, a left wall, and a right wall forming channel 24C. Channel 24C extends from vibrating plate 24B toward the posterior side of the oral cavity. Furthermore, channel 24C transmits the original tone output from vibrating plate 24B toward the posterior side of the oral cavity. Further, channel 24C has an ejection outlet 24D formed at the rear end of housing 24A. Channel 24C ejects the original tone transmitted toward the posterior side of the oral cavity from ejection outlet 24D.

[0042] In the speaker 24, the electrical signal received by the communication unit 28 is amplified by the amplifier (not shown), and the diaphragm 24B converts the electrical signal into the original sound. The channel 24C emits the original sound into the back of the oral cavity through the ejection outlet 24D.

[0043] The size of the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) when viewed from below is at least smaller than the size of the mounting portion 22B when viewed from below. Specifically, the width of the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) in at least the lateral direction is narrower than the lateral width of the mounting portion 22B. In other words, the width of the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) in at least the lateral direction is narrower than the lateral spacing of the last teeth 92A of the wearer 90. It should be noted that the last teeth 92A refer to the teeth located at the very back of the tooth row 92. In the example of this embodiment, the last teeth 92A are the second molars. In addition, in this embodiment, the length of the speaker 24 in the longitudinal direction is shorter than the length of the mounting portion 22B in the longitudinal direction.

[0044] The speaker 24 (specifically, housing 24A) is positioned at the rear of the wearer 90's mouth with the outlet 24D positioned when the braces 22 are worn (see reference). Figure 2 It is installed in the mounting section 22B in the manner of )

[0045] In this embodiment, the injection port 24D is positioned on the wearer 90 at a location rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A. That is, the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) has its injection port 24D positioned on the wearer 90 at a location rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A when the braces 22 are worn (see reference). Figure 2 The ejection port 24D is installed in the mounting section 22B in a manner that allows it to be mounted. The position rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A refers to a position including the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A and a position further rearward than the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A (i.e., the soft palate 94B located behind the hard palate 94A). In this embodiment, specifically, the ejection port 24D is positioned further rearward than the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A.

[0046] Furthermore, the injection port 24D is positioned rearward from the last tooth 92A of the wearer 90. That is, the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) has its injection port 24D positioned rearward from the last tooth 92A of the wearer 90 when the braces 22 are worn (see reference). Figure 1 The speaker 24 is installed in the mounting section 22B in a manner that allows it to be positioned rearward from the last tooth 92A. The position "rearward from the last tooth 92A" refers to a position including the last tooth 92A and a position further rearward than the last tooth 92A. It should be noted that for wearers 90 who do not have a second molar, the speaker 24 is installed in the mounting section 22B in a manner that allows the outlet 24D to be positioned rearward from the position where the second molar would be present.

[0047] Furthermore, the nozzle 24D is positioned rearward from the contact position where the tongue contacts the hard palate 94 when the wearer 90 emits the consonant [k]. That is, the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) is mounted on the mounting portion 22B such that, when the braces 22 are worn, the nozzle 24D is positioned rearward from the contact position where the tongue contacts the hard palate 94 when the wearer 90 emits the consonant [k]. The position rearward from the contact position includes both the contact position and a position further rearward than that contact position.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ejection port 24D is positioned rearward from the rear end of the mounting portion 22B. That is, the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) has its ejection port 24D positioned rearward from the rear end of the mounting portion 22B when the braces 22 are worn (see reference). Figure 1 It is installed in the mounting part 22B in a manner that allows it to be mounted in the mounting part 22B. The position from the rear end of the mounting part 22B to the rearward side refers to the position including the rear end of the mounting part 22B and the position further rearward than the rear end of the mounting part 22B.

[0049] Specifically, in this embodiment, the housing 24A protrudes rearward from the mounting portion 22B. Therefore, in this embodiment, the injection port 24D formed on the housing 24A is positioned further rearward than the rear end of the mounting portion 22B.

[0050] The rearward protrusion of the housing 24A does not contact the palate 94. That is, the housing 24A is mounted on the mounting part 22B in such a way that the protrusion does not contact the palate 94.

[0051] It should be noted that the housing 24A, including the protruding portion extending rearward from the mounting part 22B, does not contact the palate 94. The speaker 24 is preferably positioned as far back as possible within the wearer's (90's) oral cavity as possible, within a range that prevents a choking reflex when the braces 22 are worn. It should be noted that the choking reflex is a reflex response generated when various parts of the oral cavity are stimulated; it is a reflex response similar to vomiting (i.e., causing nausea).

[0052] It should be noted that since the position of the hard palate 94A, the position of the last teeth 92A, the position where the tongue contacts the hard palate 94 when producing the consonant [k], and the position where the choking reflex occurs vary from person to person, the speaker 24 (specifically, the housing 24A) is installed on the braces 22 by adjusting the position of the outlet 24D, for example, according to each wearer 90.

[0053] Alternatively, multiple speakers 24 can be arranged at the mounting portion 22B. This expands the acoustic range. Furthermore, the speaker 24 may also have multiple diaphragms 24B. This further expands the acoustic range.

[0054] <Power Supply 26>

[0055] Power supply 26 is used to drive speaker 24 (specifically, the aforementioned amplifier, etc.). A small rechargeable battery or similar device is used as power supply 26. Power supply 26 is mounted together with speaker 24 in mounting section 22B. Power supply 26 is positioned close to speaker 24 (e.g., adjacent to it).

[0056] <Communication Department 28>

[0057] The communication unit 28 is a component for communicating with an external device 50. In this embodiment, the communication unit 28 receives electrical signals converted into sound by the speaker 24 via a wireless communication component. As an example of a wireless communication component, wireless communication functionality such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) is used. The communication unit 28 is mounted on the mounting section 22B together with the power supply 26 and the speaker 24. The communication unit 28 is positioned close to the speaker 24 (e.g., adjacent to it).

[0058] It should be noted that the communication unit 28, power supply 26, and amplifier in the speaker 24 can also be configured outside the oral cavity. For example, the components of the communication unit 28, power supply 26, and amplifier are housed in a housing. This housing can be configured, for example, as an ear hook type that can be hung on the ear. In this case, the wiring connecting the components housed in the housing to the speaker 24 inside the oral cavity is configured, for example, from the housing through the ear and cheek, and through the corner of the mouth into the oral cavity. Furthermore, inside the oral cavity, the wiring configured inside the oral cavity through the corner of the mouth is configured, for example, on the posterior side outside the tooth row 92, and folds back in a U-shape at the last tooth 92A and connects to the speaker 24.

[0059] Furthermore, the internal device 20 and the external device 50 can be configured to be connected via a wire. In this configuration, for example, a structure can be adopted that allows communication and power supply via electrical signals converted into sound by the speaker 24 through a wire. In this configuration, a communication unit 28 is not required, and a power supply 26 is configured, for example, in the external device 50.

[0060] <Examples of variations of the wearer>

[0061] As an example of a wearable device, it could also be Figure 3 The wearer 122 shown has a wearing part 122A that is worn on the upper teeth row 92 of the wearer 90 and a mounting part 122B that is disposed on the hard palate 94. It should be noted that... Figure 3 The dotted part corresponds to the mounting part 122B.

[0062] Mounting section 122B is a component that mounts the speaker 24, etc. Materials used for mounting section 122B include, for example, resins such as polymethyl methacrylate, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane, and polyethylene (PE). It should be noted that the material of mounting section 122B is not limited to the above-mentioned materials, and various materials can be used.

[0063] The wearing part 122A is composed of multiple metal wires, one end of which is fixed to the mounting part 122B. The other end of the wearing part 122A engages with at least a portion of the upper teeth 92 of the wearer 90, thereby wearing the wearing part 122A. This maintains the mounting part 122B in a position on the palate 94. The metal wires constituting the wearing part 122A are made of materials such as gold, silver, platinum, titanium, palladium, and their alloys, or cobalt-chromium and other metal wires.

[0064] Alternatively, the wearer 122 may not have a wearing part 122A, but may consist only of a mounting part 122B. In this case, the mounting part 122B is worn in the oral cavity by its own adhesive force or the like, or is mechanically worn / held in the oral cavity by covering the teeth with resin material.

[0065] Furthermore, in cases where the wearer uses dentures, the dentures themselves can also be used as the wearing body.

[0066] <External Device 50>

[0067] External device 50 is a device disposed outside the mouth of wearer 90. External device 50 is also operated by wearer 90. External device 50 is an example of a "device with recording function". Specifically, external device 50 is composed of a smartphone. It should be noted that external device 50 can also be a tablet computer, etc. Furthermore, external device 50 can be a dedicated device, or various other devices can be used. External device 50 can also be configured as a different device from voice-assisting device 10.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, the external device 50 has a frame 52 and an operation panel 54. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, the external device 50 has a microphone 56 and a control unit 60.

[0069] <Frame 52>

[0070] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the frame 52 is a housing (outer shell) that houses the components of the control unit 60, etc. The frame 52 is formed in the shape of a panel (i.e., a plate).

[0071] <Operation Panel 54>

[0072] The operation panel 54 is an operating part for the wearer 90 to operate. The operation panel 54 is disposed on one surface of the frame 52. Specifically, the operation panel 54 is composed of a touch panel-type display screen. The operation panel 54 can at least execute output commands to output sound from the speaker 24 and stop commands to stop the sound output of the speaker 24.

[0073] <Microphone 56>

[0074] Microphone 56 is a device that converts sound into electrical signals. Microphone 56 is used to record the sound output from speaker 24. The sound recorded by microphone 56 is converted into electrical signals, and the information of these electrical signals is recorded in memory 63 of control unit 60 (described later). It should be noted that when recording the voice of wearer 90, it is preferable to position microphone 56 at the location where speaker 24 (specifically, outlet 24D) is positioned. This improves sound reproduction. The recorded voice of wearer 90 is, for example, the sound of "ah".

[0075] <Control Unit 60>

[0076] The control unit 60 is a unit (i.e., a control unit) that controls the various parts of the external device 50 and the speaker 24. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 60 is composed of a computer having a processor 61, a memory 62, a storage device 63 and a communication interface 64.

[0077] Communication interface 64 is an interface (i.e., a communication unit) used for communication with internal device 20. In this embodiment, communication interface 64 transmits electrical signals converted into sound by speaker 24 to communication unit 28 via a wireless communication component. As an example of a wireless communication component, wireless communication functionality such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) is used.

[0078] The processor 61 is specifically composed of a central processing unit (CPU). The memory 63 stores the control program 63A (see reference). Figure 5 The memory 63 contains various programs and data. Specifically, it is implemented by recording devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and flash memory.

[0079] Memory 62 is a working area used by processor 61 to execute various programs. During processing, processor 61 temporarily records various programs or data. Processor 61 reads various programs, including control program 63A, from memory 63 into memory 62 and uses memory 62 as a working area to execute programs.

[0080] In the control unit 60, the processor 61 implements various functions by executing the control program 63A. The functional structure achieved through the cooperation of the processor 61 (a hardware resource) and the control program 63A (a software resource) will be described below. Figure 5 This is a block diagram representing the functional structure of the processor 61, mainly showing the block diagram of the functional structure that implements the control of the operation panel 54.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, in the control unit 60, the processor 61 functions as an acquisition unit 61A and an output control unit 61B by executing the control program 63A.

[0082] The acquisition unit 61A acquires operation input commands to the operation panel 54. These commands include at least an output command that outputs sound from the speaker 24 and a stop command that stops the sound output from the speaker 24.

[0083] If the acquisition unit 61A receives an output command to output sound from the speaker 24, the output control unit 61B causes the sound recorded by the microphone 56 to be output to the speaker 24. Specifically, if the acquisition unit 61A receives the output command, the output control unit 61B reads the electrical signal information of the sound recorded by the microphone 56 from the memory 63, and sends the electrical signal to the communication unit 28 of the internal device 20 through the communication interface 64. The speaker 24 converts the electrical signal received by the communication unit 28 into sound and outputs the sound.

[0084] If the acquisition unit 61A receives a stop command to stop the sound output of the speaker 24, the output control unit 61B stops the sound output from the speaker 24. Specifically, when the acquisition unit 61A receives the stop command, the output control unit 61B stops sending electrical signals to the communication unit 28 of the internal device 20 through the communication interface 64.

[0085] It should be noted that another possible structure is to output a processed sound, such as a modulated or amplified sound, from the speaker 24 by controlling the frequency of the electrical signal of the recorded sound. For example, if a command to output a modulated sound from the speaker 24 is executed on the operation panel 54 and the acquisition unit 61A acquires the command, the output control unit 61B causes the speaker 24 to output the modulated sound. Furthermore, the modulation could be, for example, used when speaking interrogative sentences.

[0086] <The function and effect of the voice-generating auxiliary device 10>

[0087] Next, the effects of the sound-generating auxiliary device 10 will be explained.

[0088] In the structure of the voice aid device 10, the braces 22 are worn inside the mouth of the wearer 90. With the braces 22 in place, a speaker 24 mounted on the braces 22 is positioned along the hard palate 94. The speaker 24 can output the sound recorded by an external device 50 with recording capabilities as the original sound. Thus, the original sound output from the speaker is articulated into speech (consonants and vowels) by the articulatory organs such as the lips and tongue, thereby producing sound. Since the internal device 20 is located inside the mouth, it is not visible from the outside, thus preserving the user's appearance.

[0089] Since the speaker 24 can output the sound recorded by the external device 50 as the original sound, the freedom of selection for the sound that can be used as the original sound is increased. For example, by recording the wearer 90's own voice using the external device 50, the wearer 90's own voice can be used as the original sound. It should be noted that if the wearer 90 is someone who has had their larynx, including the vocal cords, removed through surgery, the wearer 90's own voice can be used as the original sound by recording their own voice before the surgery. It should also be noted that, in addition to the recorded sound, the voice-assisting device 10 can selectively use artificial voices pre-recorded in the form of a chip as the original sound.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment, channel 24C transmits the original tone output from vibrating plate 24B to the posterior side of the oral cavity. Thus, the original tone can resonate at the posterior side of the oral cavity. As a result, when producing a plosive sound generated by the separation of the tongue in contact with the palate, it is easy to mask the original tone and easily produce the plosive sound.

[0091] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the channel 24C ejects the original sound transmitted to the posterior side of the oral cavity from the ejection port 24D formed at the rear end of the housing 24A. Thus, the original sound can resonate at the posterior side of the oral cavity. As a result, when producing a plosive sound generated by the separation of the tongue in contact with the palate, it is easy to mask the original sound and easily produce the plosive sound.

[0092] In addition, in this embodiment, the outlet 24D for emitting the original sound is positioned rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A of the wearer 90.

[0093] In the structure where the outlet 24D of the speaker 24 is positioned further forward than the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A of the wearer 90 (hereinafter referred to as the "first structure"), for example, when emitting a plosive sound generated by the tongue separating from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A, the original sound is audible further forward than the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A. Since the original sound cannot be blocked, it is difficult to produce the plosive sound.

[0094] In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, since the ejection port 24D is positioned rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A of the wearer 90, when the plosive sound is emitted, the original tone is sounded rearward from the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A, thereby enabling the articulation of the plosive sound through the tongue. Therefore, compared to the first structure, the plosive sound can be emitted much better.

[0095] In addition, in this embodiment, the ejection port 24D is positioned rearward from the contact position where the tongue contacts the palate 94 when the wearer 90 makes the consonant [k].

[0096] In the second structure (hereinafter referred to as the "second structure"), the outlet 24D is positioned further forward than the contact position where the tongue contacts the palate 94 when the wearer 90 produces the consonant [k]. When producing the consonant [k], the original sound is pronounced further forward than the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the palate 94. Since the original sound cannot be blocked, it is difficult to produce the consonant.

[0097] In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, since the outlet 24D of the speaker 24 is positioned rearward from the contact position where the tongue contacts the palate 94 when the wearer 90 emits the consonant [k] while the braces 22 are worn, the original sound is emitted rearward from the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the palate 94 when the consonant [k] is emitted, thereby enabling the articulation of a plosive sound through the tongue. Therefore, the consonant [k] can be emitted better compared to the second structure.

[0098] In addition, in this embodiment, the injection port 24D is positioned posteriorly from the wearer's last tooth 92A.

[0099] In the structure where the ejection outlet 24D is positioned further forward than the wearer's last tooth 92A (hereinafter referred to as the "third structure"), for example, when producing a plosive sound generated by the tongue separating from the palate 94 adjacent to the last tooth 92A, the original sound is audible further forward than the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the palate 94. Since the original sound cannot be blocked, it is difficult to produce the plosive sound.

[0100] In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, since the ejection port 24D is positioned posteriorly from the wearer's last tooth 92A, the original sound resonates further back when the plosive is emitted, allowing the plosive to be articulated via the tongue. Therefore, compared to the third structure, the consonant can be emitted more effectively.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the injection port 24D is positioned rearward from the rear end of the mounting portion 22B. Therefore, the injection port 24D can be positioned further rearward within the oral cavity.

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the housing 24A of the speaker 24 protrudes rearward relative to the mounting portion 22B. Therefore, the emission port 24D can be positioned further rearward within the oral cavity.

[0103] In the case where the ejection port 24D is positioned further back in the oral cavity, a new problem may arise: the protrusion of the housing 24A with the ejection port 24D may come into contact with the palate 94, easily triggering a choking reflex. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the housing 24A including the protrusion does not come into contact with the palate 94, a choking reflex is less likely to occur.

[0104] <Second Implementation>

[0105] The sound-generating auxiliary device 200 according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 6 and Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a sound-generating assist device 200 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0106] The sound-generating aid device 200 is a device that, compared to the sound-generating aid device 10 of the first embodiment, modifies the structure and arrangement of the speaker 24 and the structure of the mounting portion 22B of the brace 22. It should be noted that parts constructed in the same manner as the sound-generating aid device 10 of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0107] like Figure 6 As shown, the sound-generating aid 200 has an internal device 220 and an external device 50. The internal device 220 includes a dental brace 222, a speaker 224, a power supply 26, and a communication unit 28.

[0108] <Braces 222>

[0109] The braces 222 have a wearing portion 22A and a mounting portion 222B facing the hard palate 94. The mounting portion 222B is an example of a facing portion. Except for the shape of the mounting portion 222B, which differs from the mounting portion 22B of the braces 22 in the first embodiment, the braces 222 are constructed in the same manner as the braces 22. It should be noted that the specific structure of the mounting portion 222B will be described later.

[0110] <Speaker 224>

[0111] Loudspeaker 224 is a device that converts electrical signals (i.e., electrical vibrations) into sound (i.e., physical vibrations). For example... Figure 7 As shown, the loudspeaker 224 has a housing 224A, a diaphragm 224B, and an amplifier (not shown).

[0112] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the housing 224A is formed into a flat shape that is thinner in the vertical direction and expands in the horizontal and front-back directions. That is, the housing 224A is formed into a plate shape where the vertical direction is the thickness direction. Figure 7 As shown, the upper side (i.e., the palate 94 side) of the housing 224A is open.

[0113] The vibrating plate 224B is housed within the housing 224A with the upper palate 94 side exposed. The vibrating plate 224B is capable of converting electrical signals into sound and outputting the original sound to the upper side (i.e., the upper palate 94 side) through the opening in the housing 224A.

[0114] In the speaker 224, the electrical signal received by the communication unit 28 is amplified by the amplifier, and the diaphragm 224B converts the electrical signal into the original tone, and outputs the original tone to the upward side (i.e., the palate 94 side) through the opening of the housing 224A.

[0115] The size of the speaker 224 (specifically, the housing 224A) when viewed from below is at least smaller than the size of the mounting portion 222B when viewed from below. Specifically, the width of the speaker 224 (specifically, the housing 224A) in at least the lateral direction is narrower than the lateral width of the mounting portion 222B. In other words, the width of the speaker 224 (specifically, the housing 224A) in at least the lateral direction is narrower than the lateral spacing of the wearer's left and right rearmost teeth 92A. It should be noted that the view of the speaker 224 from below refers to a view taken with the mounting portion 222B in perspective. Furthermore, the rearmost teeth 92A refer to the teeth located at the rearmost position in the tooth row 92. Specifically, in the example of this embodiment, the rearmost teeth 92A are the second molars. In addition, in this embodiment, the length of the speaker 224 in the longitudinal direction is shorter than the length of the mounting portion 222B in the longitudinal direction.

[0116] <The location of the speaker 224 and the specific structure of the mounting part 222B>

[0117] The mounting portion 222B has a mounting surface 23A on which a speaker 224 is mounted and an extension portion 23B extending upward (i.e., to the palate 94 side). The speaker 224 is mounted on the surface of the mounting surface 23A on the palate 94 side (i.e., the upper surface).

[0118] The protrusion 23B is surrounded by the speaker 224 (specifically, on the left, right, front, and rear sides). The protrusion 23B extends to a position higher than the speaker 224 (i.e., on the side of the hard palate 94). It should be noted that the protrusion 23B can be made of a hard resin material such as denture resin. That is, the brace 222 can also be fabricated by changing the material of each part.

[0119] Furthermore, the mounting portion 222B is provided with a channel 21, which transmits the original sound output from the speaker 224 to the palate 94 side to the rear. The channel 21 is formed by the gap between the mounting portion 222B and the palate 94. Specifically, the channel 21 is formed by a gap in a recess (i.e., a groove) located on the upper surface side of the mounting portion 222B, facing rearward from the mounting surface 23A. Therefore, the lower and left and right sides of the channel 21 are surrounded by the mounting portion 222B, and the upper side of the channel 21 is surrounded by the palate 94. That is, the mounting portion 222B has a lower wall, a left wall, and a right wall forming the channel 21C. The gap in the recess forming the channel 21 does not need to be a gap completely closed by the palate 94. It should be noted that the bottom surface of the recess forming the channel 21 is positioned below the top of the protrusion 23B. In addition, in Figure 7 In the middle, the transmission path of the original sound from the vibrating plate 224B is shown by arrow 29.

[0120] Channel 21 has an outlet 21A that ejects the original sound towards the posterior side of the wearer's mouth 90. When braces 222 are worn, the outlet 21A is positioned posteriorly within the wearer's mouth 90 (see reference). Figure 6 and Figure 7 ).

[0121] In this embodiment, the ejection port 21A is positioned rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A of the wearer 90. The position rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A includes both the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A and a position further rearward than the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A (i.e., the soft palate 94B located behind the hard palate 94A). Specifically, in this embodiment, the ejection port 21A is positioned further rearward than the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A.

[0122] Furthermore, the injection outlet 21A is positioned posteriorly to the last tooth 92A of the wearer 90. "Posteriorly to the last tooth 92A" refers to a position including the last tooth 92A and a position further posterior to it. It should be noted that for wearers 90 without a second molar, the injection outlet 21A is positioned posteriorly to the position where the second molar is located, if it is present.

[0123] Furthermore, the ejection port 21A is positioned rearward from the contact position where the tongue contacts the hard palate 94 when the wearer 90 emits the consonant [k]. The position rearward from the contact position includes both the contact position and a position further rearward than that contact position. Further, in this embodiment, the ejection port 21A is positioned at the rear end of the mounting portion 222B.

[0124] It should be noted that since the position of the hard palate 94A, the position of the last teeth 92A, and the position of the tongue contacting the hard palate 94 when pronouncing the consonant [k] are different from person to person, the position of the ejection port 21A, for example, should be adjusted according to each wearer 90.

[0125] Alternatively, multiple speakers 224 can be arranged at the mounting portion 222B. This expands the audible range. Furthermore, the speaker 224 may also have multiple diaphragms 224B. This further expands the audible range.

[0126] It should be noted that, in the second embodiment, the wearing body 122 (refer to the first embodiment) is different. Figure 3 Similarly, a wearable body with a wearing part consisting of multiple metal wires or a wearable body consisting only of a mounting part without a wearing part can also be used.

[0127] <The Effects of the Voice Aid Device 200>

[0128] Next, the function and effect of the sound-generating auxiliary device 200 will be explained.

[0129] The voice-generating aid 200 also functions similarly to the voice-generating aid 10. Specifically, in the voice-generating aid 200, the channel 21 transmits the original sound output from the vibrating plate 224B to the posterior side of the oral cavity. As a result, the original sound can resonate at the posterior side of the oral cavity. Consequently, when producing a plosive sound generated by the separation of the tongue in contact with the palate, it is easier to mask the original sound and produce the plosive sound.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, since the ejection port 21A is positioned rearward from the rear end 94A1 of the wearer's hard palate 94A, when the plosive sound is emitted, the original tone is sounded rearward from the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the rear end 94A1 of the hard palate 94A, thus enabling the articulation of the plosive sound through the tongue. Therefore, compared to a structure where the ejection port 21A is positioned further forward than the rear end 94A1 of the wearer's hard palate 90, the plosive sound can be emitted more effectively.

[0131] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the ejection port 21A is positioned rearward from the contact position where the tongue contacts the hard palate 94 when the wearer 90 emits the consonant [k], the original sound is produced rearward from the position where the tongue contacts / separates from the hard palate 94 when the consonant [k] is emitted, thus enabling the articulation of a plosive sound through the tongue. Therefore, compared to a structure where the ejection port 21A is positioned further forward than the contact position where the tongue contacts the hard palate 94 when the wearer 90 emits the consonant [k], the consonant [k] can be emitted more effectively.

[0132] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, since the ejection port 21A is positioned rearward from the wearer's last tooth 92A, when the plosive sound is emitted, the original sound resonates further back, allowing the plosive sound to be articulated via the tongue. Therefore, compared to a structure where the ejection port 21A is positioned further forward than the wearer's last tooth 92A, the consonant can be emitted more effectively.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the injection port 21A is disposed at the rear end of the mounting portion 22B. Therefore, the injection port 21A can be disposed further posteriorly within the oral cavity.

[0134] Furthermore, in the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device 200, as described above, the speaker 224 is mounted on the surface of the mounting surface 23A of the mounting portion 222B on the side of the palate 94 (i.e., the upper surface). As a result, the lower side of the speaker 224 is covered by the mounting portion 222B, making it difficult for the speaker 224 to come into contact with water accumulated in the oral cavity, such as saliva, and thus water is difficult to enter the speaker 224.

[0135] Furthermore, in the sound-generating auxiliary device 200, even if water such as saliva enters the housing 224A of the speaker 224, the water can be discharged through the opening located at the upper end of the housing 224A.

[0136] <Third Implementation Method>

[0137] The sound-generating auxiliary device 300 according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a sound-generating assist device 300 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0138] The sound-emitting auxiliary device 300 is a device in which the mounting portion 322B of the speaker 24 in the sound-emitting auxiliary device 10 of the first embodiment is made to be movable up and down. It should be noted that parts constructed in the same manner as the sound-emitting auxiliary device 10 of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0139] like Figure 8 As shown, the sound-generating aid 300 has an internal device 320 and an external device 50. The internal device 320 includes a dental brace 322, a speaker 24, a power supply 26, and a communication unit 28.

[0140] <Braces 322>

[0141] The braces 322 have a wearing part 322A and a mounting part 322B facing the palate 94. The mounting part 322B is an example of a facing part. Except for the shape of the wearing part 322A and the mounting part 322B, which are different from the wearing part 22A and the mounting part 22B of the braces 22 of the first embodiment, the braces 322 are constructed in the same manner as the braces 22.

[0142] In the wearing part 322A, the front part is notched. Therefore, the wearing part 322A is configured to be worn on the back part of the teeth instead of the front part of the teeth in the dental arch 92. In addition, since the mounting part 322B does not cover the front part of the palate 94, the front part of the palate 94 is exposed downwards.

[0143] Thus, in this embodiment, the front side portions of the wearing part 322A and the mounting part 322B are cut open to expose the front side portions of the teeth in the tooth row 92 and the front side portion of the palate 94.

[0144] Furthermore, the front portion of the mounting part 322B is connected to the wearing part 322A, while the rear portion is separated from the wearing part 322A. Thus, as... Figure 9 As shown, the mounting part 322B can move up and down with the front side as the fulcrum.

[0145] <The Effects of the Voice Aid Device 300>

[0146] Next, the function and effect of the sound-generating auxiliary device 300 will be explained.

[0147] In addition to the effects of the sound-generating auxiliary device 10, the sound-generating auxiliary device 300 also has the following effects. In the structure of the sound-generating auxiliary device 300, the mounting part 322B can move up and down with its front side as a fulcrum. Therefore, the orientation of the emission outlet 24D of the speaker 24 can be changed, and the direction of the original sound output from the speaker 24 can be changed.

[0148] In this embodiment, for example, due to the weight of the speaker 24 itself, the speaker 24 is located in the middle position between the tongue and the hard palate 94. Figure 9 (The position is indicated by the solid line in the middle). As a result, it is able to transmit the original sound further back (i.e., inside) in the oral cavity, and can produce breathy sounds, etc.

[0149] The direction of output from the outlet 24D of the speaker 24 is, for example, the direction indicated by arrow 329. Additionally, an opening can be formed on the rear side of the housing 24A of the speaker 24 on the palate 94 side (i.e., the upper side), thereby outputting the original sound to the palate 94 side (see arrow 333). In this case, for example, by making the size of this opening smaller than the size of the opening at the rear end of the housing 24A, the volume of the original sound output to the upper side (see arrow 333) can be made smaller than the volume of the original sound output to the rear side (see arrow 329).

[0150] Furthermore, in situations where it is necessary to make the tongue contact the palate 94, the speaker 24 can be moved upwards while the tongue makes contact with the palate 94. Such situations may include producing a plosive sound by removing the tongue from the palate 94.

[0151] In addition, in this embodiment, as described above, the front side portions of the wearing part 322A and the mounting part 322B are cut open, exposing the front side portions of the teeth in the tooth row 92 and the front side portions of the palate 94.

[0152] Therefore, since the contact between the front portion of the teeth and the front portion of the palate 94 and the tongue is not obstructed, it is easy to produce fricative sounds such as the consonant [s]. It should be noted that the structure of cutting notches in the front portion of the wearing part and the mounting part can also be applied to the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

[0153]

[0154] In this embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the aforementioned speaker 224, which outputs the original sound to the upward side, can be used instead of speaker 24. In this modified example, the direction in which the original sound is output from speaker 224 can also be changed.

[0155] In this embodiment, for example, due to the weight of the speaker 224, the speaker 224 is located in the middle position between the tongue and the hard palate 94. Figure 10 (The position is indicated by a solid line in the middle). As a result, the original sound can be transmitted to the more posterior side (i.e., the inner side) inside the oral cavity, and the sound of smooth breath can be produced, etc.

[0156] The direction in which the original sound is output from the speaker 224 is, for example, the direction indicated by arrow 335. Alternatively, a rear opening can be formed in the housing 224A of the speaker 224 to output the original sound to the rear (see arrow 337). In this case, for example, by making the size of this opening smaller than the size of the opening on the upper side of the housing 24A, the volume of the original sound output to the rear (see arrow 337) can be made smaller than the volume of the original sound output to the upper side (see arrow 335).

[0157] Furthermore, in situations where it is necessary to make the tongue contact the palate 94, the speaker 24 can be moved upwards while the tongue makes contact with the palate 94. Such situations may include producing a plosive sound by removing the tongue from the palate 94.

[0158] With the speaker 224 moved upward, a channel 31 is formed on the rear side relative to the diaphragm 224B through the gap between the housing 224A and the palate 94 and the gap between the mounting part 322B and the palate 94.

[0159]

[0160] Examples of wearers are not limited to the dental braces 322. For example, the wearer may be a portion of the dental braces 322 that is made of a hard resin material such as denture resin, which is used for dentures, and the portion on the outer periphery (i.e., the cheek side). Alternatively, the wearer may be a wearing part 322A of the dental braces 322 that is made of a hard resin material such as denture resin.

[0161] Alternatively, as a wearer, a wearer equipped with a mounting part 322B (i.e., a movable part) can be used, wherein the mounting part 322B is capable of moving up and down with the front side as a fulcrum relative to a support member (so-called palatal bar) suspended between the left and right teeth in the dental row 92 along the palate 94.

[0162] Furthermore, when the wearer 90 is using dentures, a wearer with a mounting part 322B (i.e., a movable part) can also be used, wherein the mounting part 322B can move up and down relative to the denture with the front side as the fulcrum.

[0163] The foregoing has described one embodiment of this disclosure; however, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described manner, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit. For example, it can be configured to appropriately combine multiple embodiments and modifications shown above.

[0164] <Postscript>

[0165] The first method comprises: a wearable body worn inside a person's mouth, having an opposing part facing the person's palate; a vibrating plate disposed in the opposing part, capable of outputting sound recorded by a device with a recording function as the original sound; and a channel disposed in the opposing part, transmitting the original sound output from the vibrating plate to the posterior side inside the mouth.

[0166] The second approach is different from the first approach, wherein the channel has an outlet for ejecting the original sound toward the posterior side of the oral cavity, the outlet being positioned posteriorly from the posterior end of the hard palate of the person.

[0167] The third approach is in the first approach, wherein the channel has an outlet for ejecting the original sound toward the posterior side of the oral cavity, the outlet being positioned posteriorly from the position where the tongue contacts the palate when the person utters the consonant [k].

[0168] The fourth method is the same as the first method, wherein the channel has an outlet for ejecting the original sound that is transmitted to the posterior side of the oral cavity, the outlet being positioned posteriorly from the last teeth of the person.

[0169] The fifth method is the same as the first method, in which the channel has an outlet for ejecting the original sound that is transmitted to the posterior side of the oral cavity, the outlet being positioned at a position from the posterior end of the opposing portion toward the posterior side.

[0170] The sixth method is any one of the first to fifth methods, wherein the vibrating plate is disposed on the surface of the palatal side in the opposing portion and is capable of outputting the original tone to the palatal side.

[0171] The seventh method is the same as the sixth method, in which the channel is formed by the gap between the opposing portion and the person's palate.

[0172] The eighth method is the same as the sixth or seventh method, which includes a housing with an opening on the palatal side and housing the vibrating plate with the vibrating plate exposed to the palatal side.

[0173] The ninth method is any one of the first to fifth methods, which includes a housing that houses the vibrating plate and has the channel formed inside, the channel ejecting the original sound from an ejection port formed at the rear end of the housing toward the posterior side of the oral cavity.

[0174] The tenth embodiment is in the ninth embodiment, wherein the housing protrudes to the rearward side relative to the opposing portion.

[0175] The eleventh method is the same as the tenth method, in which the rearward-facing protrusion of the housing does not contact the palate.

[0176] In the twelfth method, which is any one of the first to eleventh methods, the wearer is a brace.

[0177] The thirteenth method is any one of the first to twelfth methods, in which the opposing part can move up and down with the anterior side inside the oral cavity as a fulcrum.

[0178] The fourteenth method includes: a wearable body, worn inside a person's mouth, having an opposing part facing the person's palate and capable of moving up and down with the front side as a fulcrum; and a vibrating plate, disposed in the opposing part, capable of outputting sound recorded by a device with a recording function as the original sound output.

[0179] The entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-010291, filed on January 26, 2021, are incorporated herein by reference. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated by reference in the same manner as those specifically described and incorporated by reference for each document, patent application, and technical standard.

Claims

1. A sound-generating auxiliary device, comprising: A wearable device, worn inside a person's mouth, having an opposing part facing the person's palate; A vibrating plate, disposed in the opposing section, is capable of outputting sound as the original sound recorded by a device with a recording function; and A channel, located in the opposing section, transmits the original sound output from the vibrating plate to the posterior side of the oral cavity. The channel has an outlet, through which the original sound is emitted toward the posterior side of the oral cavity.

2. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 1, wherein, The ejection port is positioned posteriorly from the rear end of the hard palate of the person.

3. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 1, wherein, The ejection port is positioned posteriorly from the position where the tongue contacts the hard palate when the person utters the consonant [k].

4. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 1, wherein, The injection port is positioned posteriorly from the person's last tooth.

5. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 1, wherein, The injection port is located on the rearward side from the rear end of the opposing portion.

6. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The vibrating plate is disposed on the surface of the palatal side in the opposing portion and is capable of outputting the original sound to the palatal side.

7. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 6, wherein, The channel is formed by the gap between the opposing portion and the person's palate.

8. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The sound-generating aid device includes a housing with an opening on the palatal side and housing the vibrating plate with the vibrating plate exposed to the palatal side.

9. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The sound-generating auxiliary device has a housing that houses the vibrating plate and has the channel formed inside. The channel ejects the original sound from the ejection port formed at the rear end of the housing and transmits it to the posterior side of the oral cavity.

10. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 9, wherein, The housing protrudes to the rearward side relative to the opposing portion.

11. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to claim 10, wherein, The rearward-protruding portion of the housing does not contact the palate.

12. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The device being worn is a dental brace.

13. The sound-generating auxiliary device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The opposing part can move up and down with the front side inside the oral cavity as a fulcrum.

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