The Estimation of Birdsong Control Parameters Using Maximum Likelihood and Minimum Action

Abstract

In this research, a method is presented for extracting the control parameters of an avian syrinx synthesis model from recorded bird- song. A look-up table pairs combinations of pressure and tension parameters with the model’s corresponding output power spectra. At each time frame, a generalized likelihood ratio fills a pressure- tension matrix indicating similarity between the birdsong power spectrum and the tabulated spectra. Successive pressure-tension matrices are stacked and points exhibiting a good fit to the data align to form trajectories corresponding to changes in pressure and tension over time which can then be used to control the model. In the event a range of trajectories matches the data well, the selected trajectory is that of least action.