Using Dr. Hunter’s background in physics, acoustics, and biomechanics, V-BAL is focused on examining all aspects of the voice mechanism and production, including but not limited to:
- The physiology and biomechanics of the laryngeal system;
- The acoustics of voice production and perception;
- Occupational voice disorders and vocal health;
- Multiparametric assessment of between voice, swallowing, and cough;
- The effects of acoustic sound propagation in a room on listeners; and
- The effects on vocal health of vocal physiology, biomechanics, acoustics, and behavior.
Under Dr. Hunter’s direction, post-doctoral researchers, as well as undergraduate and graduate students, assist in recording, analyzing, and modeling voice production. In addition to the standard voice measurement tools (e.g., EGG, aerodynamic, microphones), the V-BAL laboratory has several more unique items, including spirometers, ambulatory monitors (heart rhythm), accelerometers, and devices to capture breathing, skin temperature, and blood flow. The laboratory houses anechoic and reverberation chambers; it also has access to a shared double-walled sound booth.
Funding for V-BAL has come from various national and private agencies including the National Institutes of Health and the Trifecta Initiative at MSU.