Cooperation between science and business is increasingly leading to the creation of technologies that, just a decade ago, seemed like something out of a science fiction movie. One such project is the interdisciplinary initiative carried out by Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (UMCS) in Lublin and Netrix S.A., aimed at developing a groundbreaking solution for speech therapy and orthodontics.
The project is titled:
“Ultrasound System for Monitoring Tongue Function in Orthodontic and Speech Therapy Using Computational Intelligence.”
This innovative tool is designed to support specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of speech disorders and tongue function abnormalities. By combining ultrasound technology with artificial intelligence algorithms, the system will enable precise imaging and automatic analysis of tongue movements, significantly improving therapy processes and patient progress monitoring.
Science and Business – A Partnership That Works
The project is an excellent example of effective collaboration between the academic world and the modern technology sector.
UMCS contributes research experience, expert knowledge, and scientific facilities, while Netrix S.A., with its strong engineering and R&D competencies, is responsible for the technological side of the project, system integration, and the development of AI components.
The joint efforts of both institutions make it possible to transfer research results into real-world applications — from laboratory work to the implementation of a medical tool supporting therapists.
Technology That Transforms Therapy
The ultrasound system under development will enable:
non-invasive monitoring of tongue activity during speech and exercises,
detailed real-time analysis of tongue movement biomechanics,
automatic interpretation of ultrasound images using advanced AI algorithms,
more precise diagnosis of articulation disorders,
personalized therapy tailored to individual patient needs,
progress assessment based on numerical and visual data.
As a result, the system will become a tool that not only supports specialists but also improves the comfort and effectiveness of therapy for both children and adults.
A Film Showing the Behind-the-Scenes Process
As part of the project, a promotional video has also been produced, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration, laboratories, research activities, and conversations with scientists and engineers.
🎥 The film is available here: Watch the promotional video
The video presents how a modern medical technology solution is created — from the initial concept, through design and prototyping, to data analysis and artificial intelligence applications. It is also a story about people combining their expertise to create technologies that can genuinely transform speech therapy and orthodontic treatment.
The Importance of the Project for Medicine and Education
The developed ultrasound system may become a breakthrough in speech therapy diagnostics and treatment. Until now, tongue function analysis has been difficult, fragmented, and largely dependent on the specialist’s experience. Thanks to the use of ultrasound and AI, it will be possible to achieve:
- objective and repeatable therapy monitoring,
- early detection of abnormalities,
- increased effectiveness of therapeutic exercises,
- development of new educational methods in speech therapy, linguistics, and physiotherapy,
- support for orthodontists in treatment planning.
The project also contributes to the development of the medtech sector and innovation in the Lublin region.
A Shared Vision for the Future
UMCS and Netrix S.A. emphasize that this is only the beginning of their collaboration. Further research activities, clinical testing, and eventually the practical implementation of the system in medical facilities across Poland are already being planned.
This joint project proves that an interdisciplinary approach, knowledge exchange, and the combination of competencies from different fields can lead to innovations with real social impact.