Abstract
Estimation of the vocal tract area function producing fricative consonants is performed using the spectral matching technique. The model is composed of an equivalent acoustical tube, a radiation impedance and a noise source which is put in the vocal tract. The estimated area functions for /s/, /∫/, /h/ and /f/ are distinctive, and each shows the unique characteristics which correspond to the articulation of the consonant. Thus, it is verified that the proposed method is beneficial in analyzing the features of fricative consonants.
