FluentBuddy device to enhance the sensory and motor function of individuals with speech communication disabilities

This project develops FluentBuddy, a prototype application for iOS and Android platforms to assist in the treatment of speech and communication disorders with a focus on the physiological and anatomical system (i.e. voice disorders, speech sound disorders, motor speech disorders, and other disabilities in children and adults). The project has three goals: (1) enhancing sensory and motor function to support improved functional capacity, (2) enhancing workforce participation, and (3) increasing independence of individuals with communication disabilities. FluentBuddy utilizes high performance speech processing algorithms on a smartphone combined with the Take Along Clinical Therapy platform to deliver autonomous measurement, assessment, and treatment of speech/communication issues in real time. The FluentBuddy system provides a new platform for the delivery of clinical therapy allowing individuals to assess and identify parameters contributing to a communication issue outside of the clinic either at home, on a PC, or in real-world situations via a mobile device; and enables tele-practice for speech language pathologists in improving therapy outcomes.