Michael M Cohen

Title: Michael M Cohen: Innovator in Computer-Animated Speech Production

Introduction

Michael M Cohen is a notable inventor based in Santa Cruz, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of computer-animated speech production. His innovative work focuses on enhancing the realism of animated characters through advanced visual display methods.

Latest Patents

Cohen holds a patent for "Visual display methods for in computer-animated speech production models." This invention presents a method of modeling speech distinctions within computer-animated talking heads. It utilizes the manipulation of speech production articulators for selected speech segments. Graphical representations of voice characteristics and speech production characteristics are generated in response to these speech segments. For instance, breath images are created, such as particle-cloud images and particle-stream images, to represent voiced characteristics like stops and fricatives. The coloring on the exterior portions of the talking head is displayed in response to selected voice characteristics, such as nasality. Additionally, the external physiology of the talking head is modulated by changing the width and movement of the nose, the position of the eyebrows, and the movement of the throat in response to voiced speech characteristics like pitch, nasality, and voicebox vibration. The invention also describes modeling a talking head based on the facial image of a specific individual.

Career Highlights

Cohen is affiliated with the University of California, where he continues to advance his research and development in the field of animated speech production. His work has garnered attention for its innovative approach to creating more lifelike animated characters.

Collaborations

Cohen has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Dominic William Massaro and Jonas Beskow. Their combined expertise has contributed to the advancement of technologies in speech production and animation.

Conclusion

Michael M Cohen's contributions to computer-animated speech production exemplify the intersection of technology and creativity. His innovative patent enhances the realism of animated characters, paving the way for future advancements in the field.