On loops and articulatory biomechanics

This study explores the following hypothesis: forward looping movements of the tongue that are observed in VCV sequences are due partly to the anatomical arrangement of the tongue muscles and how they are used to produce a velar closure. The study uses an anatomically based two-dimensional biomechanical tongue model. Tissue elastic properties are accounted for in finite-element modeling, and movement is controlled by constant-rate control parameter shifts. Tongue raising and lowering movements are produced by the model with the combined actions of the genioglossus, styloglossus and hyoglossus. Simulations of V1CV2 movements were made, where C is a velar consonant and V is [A], [i] or [u]. The resulting trajectories describe movements that begin to loop forward before consonant closure. Examination of subject data show similar looping movements. These observations support the idea that the biomechanical properties of the tongue could be the main factor responsible for the loops.

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