Katha-mala: a voice output communication aid for the children with Severe Speech and Multiple Disorders (SSMI)

Recent developments in embedded systems technology have opened up a vast area of research and development- the development of portable and affordable assistive devices tuned to specific applications for the physically challenged populace. In this paper we present Kathamala, a novel voice recording and playback system that has been designed to help people with Severe Speech and Multiple Disorders (SSMI). The system is fully portable and has been designed to cater to the Indian community. The biggest advantage of the system is its inherent user-friendliness achieved with the incorporation of appropriate interfacing circuitry. Aided with its inherent flexibility to accept inputs from a variety of sources Kathamala is a complete system on board solution for children who deserve special attention.