Makoto Yajima

Title: Makoto Yajima: Innovator in Text-to-Speech Technology

Introduction

Makoto Yajima is a prominent inventor based in Tachikawa, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of text-to-speech technology, holding a total of eight patents. His work focuses on enhancing the way machines interpret and synthesize human speech, particularly through the use of peculiar expressions.

Latest Patents

Yajima's latest patents include a text-to-speech system, a text-to-speech method, and a computer program product for synthesis modification based upon peculiar expressions. According to one embodiment, his text-to-speech device includes a receiver that accepts input text containing a peculiar expression. A normalizer then normalizes this input text based on a set of rules, generating normalized texts. The device employs a selector to process each normalized text and choose one based on the results of the language processing. A generator creates a series of phonetic parameters that represent the phonetic expression of the selected normalized text. Additionally, a modifier adjusts a phonetic parameter in the normalized text corresponding to the peculiar expression, and an output unit synthesizes and outputs the phonetic sound.

Another notable patent is for an information display apparatus, which includes a display device that shows video content. This apparatus features a speech detection unit that monitors the playback state of the speech, along with a closed caption display unit that generates and displays character information associated with the playback speech. The closed caption display unit can also adjust the display state of the character information based on the detected playback state.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Yajima has worked with notable companies such as Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba and Ricoh Company, Ltd. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to refine his skills and contribute to advancements in technology.

Collaborations

Yajima has collaborated with several talented individuals, including Kohei Momosaki and Kazuhiko Abe. These partnerships have fostered innovation and creativity in his projects.

Conclusion

Makoto Yajima is a distinguished inventor whose work in text-to-speech technology has paved the way for more natural and expressive human-computer interactions. His patents reflect a deep understanding of language processing and phonetic synthesis, making him a key figure in the field.