Walk-N-Talk: An Accessible Speech Generation Device

University of Pittsburgh scientists have developed a novel communication device suitable for use by people who are nonverbal and have visual impairment. Walk-N-Talk is a speech-generation device that can be preprogramed with key phrases and attached to white canes, other mobility devices, or the handle of a service dog’s harness. With Walk-N-Talk, people who are nonverbal and visually impaired no longer need to choose between using either a mobility aid or a communication device. Walk-N-Talk is designed to supplement a person’s usual communication device and could dramatically improve independence and communication.

Description

In the US alone, there are over 100,000 children who are both visually impaired and nonverbal. These children are more likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They will generally use a tablet-based speech-generation device to communicate with friends, caregivers and peers, and a white cane to navigate their environment. For small children, using both aids at the same time is cumbersome so they often must choose between communication and mobility, limiting crucial social interactions with others. Such limitations can lead to developmental delays and a lack of independence. Walk-N-Talk is designed to be integrated with aids like a white cane. Key voice recordings like “I need help” or “I need to use the bathroom” can be activated using individually shaped, tactile buttons, allowing the child to interact with the others more independently. The Walk-N-Talk can also be used by adults who need to communicate while using a mobility device.

Applications

• People who are non-verbal and who have visual impairment
• Individuals who are blind and who cannot speak due to being deaf
• People who are nonverbal who also have mobility impairments

Advantages

Existing speech-generation devices are tablet-based and difficult to carry and use at the same time as a white cane. Other communication devices often have a neck strap, which is not comfortable to people with ASD due to sensory issues. Walk-N-Talk is designed to overcome these challenges. It will be lightweight and can be attached to a white cane, allowing for both devices to be used at the same time with either the same hand or the other free hand. Walk-N-Talk contains individual buttons which can be used to play stored voice clips (specific to the user) to request help and support.

Invention Readiness

Inventors consulted families of children who are nonverbal and who have visual impairment and specialists working with them to understand their unique needs. Based on these consultations, a prototype Walk-N-Talk device was designed to be lightweight, easily added to canes or other devices, and with 4–6 buttons. The next step is verification and validation including user testing with children, adults, caregivers, teachers, and speech-language pathologists.

IP Status

Patent Pending