Observations from a Simple Vocal-Tract-Model's Behaviour for PD-Dysarthric Speech: Applicability

The uniform-element tube model of a speaker's vocal tract is a by-product from LPC speech analysis. It is used here to observe a speaker's articulation. The aim is an insight into possible articulatory weaknesses of PD (Parkinson-Disease) patients who suffer from dysarthria, i.e., speaking problems. Approved auditive methods exist for evaluation of the patients' speech handicaps, applying also instrumental signal features. But a direct view on vocal-tract movements can be an additional diagnostic aid. Due to its real-time potential, the simple estimation of vocal-tract areas from LPC analysis is regarded here, despite its known impreciseness. In a first measurement set, it is checked with fluent speech of healthy persons, whether any reaction appears on articulatory changes between clear and intentionally mumbled speech. Then, with sustained vowels of healthy and slightly as well as strongly handicapped speakers, the potential of the approach to display such differences is examined.