Multiresolution speech analysis with an analog cochlear model

The limitations of uniform bandwidth analysis methods (such as the spectrogram) for broadband signals when both temporal and spectral resolution are important are discussed. Signal representation by an auditory periphery model based on neurophysiological data is described. The model exhibits wavelet-like properties. The temporal analysis of the response of the model yields accurate time and frequency determination for each spectral component in a dynamic broadband signal. The signal processing capability of the model is demonstrated with natural speech input. The model has been realized in silicon as a real-time, low-power hardware signal processor