Futures

Cornell Researcher Develops Sonar Glasses for Silent Speech Recognition and Device Control, (from page 20230423.)

External link

Keywords

Themes

Other

Summary

A researcher at Cornell University has created sonar glasses that allow users to control devices through silent speech recognition. Developed by Ph.D. student Ruidong Zhang, the glasses utilize tiny microphones and speakers to detect mouthed commands, enabling actions like pausing music or entering passcodes without vocalization. Unlike previous technologies that required cameras or earbuds, these glasses enhance privacy and practicality. The system learns user speech patterns quickly and processes data wirelessly, achieving about 95% accuracy. Potential applications include discreet music control in quiet environments and aiding individuals with speech disabilities. The research team is exploring commercialization and further development of smart-glass technology.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Sonar Glasses for Silent Communication Eyeglasses that use sonar technology to interpret silent speech commands. From traditional voice commands to silent communication through wearable technology. In 10 years, wearable devices may become the primary interface for hands-free interaction. The growing demand for privacy and hands-free technology in personal devices. 4
Real-Time Echo Analysis Deep learning algorithms analyze echo profiles for speech recognition. From limited command recognition to real-time, personalized speech understanding. Personal devices may offer highly accurate, personalized interactions without voice input. Advancements in AI and machine learning for improved user interaction. 5
Privacy-Centric Wearable Tech Technology that processes data on-device, enhancing user privacy. From cloud-dependent data processing to localized, privacy-focused solutions. Wearable tech may prioritize user privacy as a standard feature in all devices. Increasing public awareness and concern for data privacy and security. 5
Applications for Speech Disabilities Potential use of technology for individuals with speech disabilities to communicate. From reliance on spoken communication to silent input methods for disabled users. More inclusive communication devices may emerge for people with speech impairments. A growing emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity in technology design. 4
Commercialization of Smart Glasses Exploration of commercial applications for sonar glasses technology. From experimental technology to potential consumer products. Smart glasses could become commonplace for various applications in daily life. Rising interest and investment in augmented reality and wearable tech markets. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Privacy Concerns with Silent Speech Technology Despite claims of data processing privacy, potential for misuse or unintended data exposure still exists with wearable tech. 4
Dependence on Smartphone Integration The reliance on smartphones for processing may create vulnerabilities if devices are lost or compromised. 3
Potential for Miscommunication Users may inadvertently trigger commands without realizing it, leading to unintentional actions or disruptions. 3
Accessibility and Inclusion Risks While it aids those with speech disabilities, it may create new barriers for users who cannot utilize the technology effectively. 4
Market Viability and Ethical Concerns As the technology is commercialized, ethical considerations around usage and accessibility may arise. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Silent Command Execution Using sonar glasses to execute commands without spoken words, enhancing user interaction in silent environments. 5
Wearable Privacy Technology Development of wearable devices that process data locally, addressing privacy concerns while maintaining functionality. 5
Hands-Free Operation in Public Spaces Enabling hands-free control of devices in environments where traditional methods are impractical due to noise or social norms. 4
Assistive Technology for Speech Disabilities Using silent-speech recognition to assist individuals with speech disabilities, enhancing communication capabilities. 5
Integration of Wearable Technologies Exploration of smart-glasses for tracking human activities and improving personal computing experiences in everyday settings. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Sonar Glasses Eyeglass attachment that uses microphones and speakers to detect silent speech commands, enabling hands-free interaction with devices. 5
Silent-Speech Recognition Technology that interprets mouth movements to execute commands without vocalization, enhancing accessibility and privacy. 5
Wearable Acoustic Sensing Technology Small, low-power device that utilizes sound waves for user interaction, optimizing privacy by processing data on a smartphone. 4
Smart Glasses Applications Future-focused extensions of smart glasses to track human movements and activities for enhanced personal computing. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Silent Speech Recognition Developing technology that recognizes silent speech through wearable devices, enhancing user interaction without vocalization. 4
Wearable Technology Privacy Concerns related to data privacy and security in wearable technologies that process personal speech patterns. 5
Assistive Technologies for Speech Disabilities Use of silent speech recognition for individuals with speech disabilities, facilitating communication through technology. 5
Integration of Smart Glasses in Daily Life Potential for smart glasses to become a personal computing platform, tracking various human activities. 3
Hands-Free Device Control Emerging need for hands-free control of devices in various environments, enhancing accessibility and convenience. 4