Location History:
- Hamburg, DE (1983 - 1991)
- Aachen, DE (1997 - 2001)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1983-2001
Title: Hermann Ney: Innovator in Translation and Speech Processing
Introduction
Hermann Ney is a prominent inventor based in Aachen, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the fields of translation and speech processing, holding a total of 14 patents. His work has advanced the methodologies used in translating text and synthesizing speech, showcasing his expertise and innovative spirit.
Latest Patents
One of Ney's latest patents is a method and device for translating a source text into a target using modeling and dynamic programming. This invention focuses on translating a word-organized source text into a word-organized target text by mapping source words onto target words. It employs both a translation model and a language model, ascertaining alignment probabilities between various source and target word pairs. The method assumes that alignment between these word pairs is monotonous through substantial substrings of a particular sentence. By evaluating the statistical translation performance of various target word strings, the optimum target word string is decided upon and outputted.
Another notable patent is the method of deriving characteristic values from a speech signal. This invention is particularly relevant in speech synthesis for voice output, where an excitation signal is applied to resonators whose frequency and amplitude are adjusted according to the sound to be produced. The parameters for these adjustments can be derived from natural speech signals, which are also applicable in speech recognition. Ney's method involves determining parameters, particularly formant frequencies, by forming the power density spectrum and utilizing dynamic programming to minimize error values across frequency segments.
Career Highlights
Hermann Ney has had a distinguished career, working with U.S. Philips Corporation, where he has been able to apply his innovative ideas in practical applications. His work has not only contributed to the advancement of technology but has also influenced the way we interact with machines through language and speech.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Ney has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Michael Harald Kuhn and Horst H Tomaschewski. These collaborations have further enriched his work and expanded the impact of his inventions.
Conclusion
Hermann Ney's contributions to translation and speech processing exemplify the power of innovation in technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of language and sound, paving the way for advancements in communication technology. His work continues to influence the fields of translation and speech synthesis, making him a key figure in these domains.