Semi-Rigid Torus Speech Ring for Articulation Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for improving speech clarity, such as using small objects like corks or marbles in the mouth, are unreliable and often ineffective in refining articulation and speech quality.
Innovation Solution
A torus-shaped speech ring with customizable dimensions and surface features that provides resistance to mouth movements, allowing for improved articulation and muscle engagement without obstructing tongue movement, made from semi-rigid, non-toxic materials like acrylic or thermoplastic nylon.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a small object like a cork or marble is held in the speaker's mouth to improve speech clarity, then articulation strength may be enhanced, but the technique is unreliable and prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the oral appliance from small irregular objects (corks, marbles) to a standardized torus shape with specific dimensional ranges (outer diameter 30-45mm, inner diameter 20-35mm, height 5-10mm). This standardization of geometric parameters ensures consistent and reliable speech improvement effects across different users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies using semi-rigid materials with particular mechanical properties (Young's modulus 1-10 MPa, elongation at break 10-50%) such as thermoplastic nylon or acrylic. These composite material properties provide the optimal balance between providing resistance for muscle strengthening and maintaining comfort for prolonged use, making the technique reliable and repeatable.
2Strength
If an object is placed in the mouth to strengthen speaking muscles, then articulation may improve, but the object may obstruct tongue movement
Solution Approach 1:
The torus-shaped device segments the oral space into distinct zones: the ring structure itself occupies the peripheral space between cheeks and lips, while the central opening (inner diameter 20-35mm) remains clear for tongue movement. This spatial segmentation allows muscle strengthening at the periphery without obstructing central tongue functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The torus (doughnut-shaped) geometry with rounded surfaces and smooth curvature provides uniform distribution of resistance forces on the oral muscles while creating a hollow center that accommodates tongue movement. The curved geometry eliminates sharp edges that could obstruct or injure oral structures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances speech clarity and muscle strength by providing targeted resistance during speech practice, allowing the tongue to move freely and promoting better articulation, with potential benefits for language learning, accent reduction, and post-surgery speech rehabilitation.
Implementation Method 1
A speech ring as disclosed herein may be made from any suitable non-toxic material, such as a semi-rigid plastic or other semi-rigid material. In some embodiments, the speech ring may be made from a single piece of material, such as by injection molding or the like. In some embodiments, the speech ring may be made from a pliant material such that the speech ring shapes to a speaker's mouth during use, while retaining the capability of being re-shaped after use.
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided that includes a semi-rigid ring made of one or more non-toxic materials that is suitable for being placed in a speaker's mouth. The ring has an outer diameter in the range of 30-45 mm and an inner diameter in the range of 20-40 mm to allow for placement in a speaker's mouth while speaking.