Machine Control with Better Speech Recognition

 Industrial manufacturing view .... 

Intuitive machine control using speech recognition

Research News / February 15, 2023

Fraunhofer researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology IDMT in Oldenburg have developed a speech recognition solution for use in industrial manufacturing. The system works reliably even in noisy environments and can be flexibly adapted to the user’s needs. Employees use intuitive voice commands on the factory floor, allowing them to keep both hands free and work much more efficiently. The Hannover Messe Preview on February 15, 2023, will provide a first look at the research project, including a hands-on demonstration.

Machines such as this milling machining center can be controlled using speech recognition systems and audio technology from Fraunhofer IDMT in Oldenburg. This reliable system can be quickly and easily adapted to customers’ needs.

Experts can experience intuitive machine control live at the Fraunhofer booth during the Hannover Messe 2023.

The practice of using voice-controlled machines in manufacturing was previously considered prone to errors, and as a result, it was hardly ever adopted. Now, Fraunhofer IDMT in Oldenburg has developed a solution that allows machines to be reliably controlled using voice commands. Even on a noisy factory floor, the speech recognition system functions reliably. Employees speak into a wireless headset or a stationary microphone — and in the future, they could use smart hearable technology, which the institute branch for Hearing, Speech and Audio Technology HSA is also working to develop. Loud ambient noise is almost entirely tuned out using a combination of directional microphones and an effective noise-canceling system.

Less walking — and free hands

Marvin Norda, the project manager for Voice Controlled Production at Fraunhofer IDMT, says: “For the first time, our technology is enabling people to control machines in manufacturing using voice commands in a reliable, intuitive way. For manufacturing companies, this means increased efficiency and lower costs.” The technology also has advantages for employees, as contactless machine operation is safe and hygienic for people. When employees are controlling multiple machines, it reduces how far they need to walk — they can use a mobile device to issue voice commands to the equipment from a distance. They have both hands free, allowing them to place a workpiece in position in the work area while giving the robot an instruction such as “lower the arm” or “grip the workpiece” at the same time.

Controlling a machine through voice commands is more efficient than using a control panel or touch panel — clicking through nested menu structures is a cumbersome and error-prone process, whereas direct voice commands involve simple instructions.

“The speech recognition technology can handle hundreds of individual commands depending on the application and is not limited to a particular voice. New or modified commands can be quickly added and trained into the system,” adds Mr. Norda.  ... '