Abstract:
A method of providing a verbal dialog interface for a caller to an automated self-service “how to use” call system. The method uses a combination of natural language and directed dialog techniques to permit callers to hear instructions through three paths: by saying the name of a topic, by selecting the topic from a menu, or by describing the topic. A playback feature permits the caller to control the pace of presentation of the dialog. Partitioning of the dialog into modules ensures that the caller remains on track during the dialog.
Abstract:
A computer jukebox capable of receiving and storing advertisement data representing a plurality of advertisement from a remote central management system by way of a transmission link between the computer jukebox and the central management system, comprising a communication interface, a programmable computer memory and a processor. The computer jukebox downloads advertisement data. The communication interface receives advertisement data from the remote central management system by way of the transmission link. The advertisement data represents an identity of each of the plurality of advertisements, and data representing times for each of the advertisements to be run. The programmable computer memory stores the advertisement data. The processor runs the plurality of advertisements according to the advertisement data.
Abstract:
In some embodiments of the present invention, a vending machine display apparatus and method includes a controller, a display electrically coupled to the controller and adapted to be coupled to the vending machine in a location externally visible on the vending machine, and a power line coupled to the display and adapted to supply power to the display. The display can be associated with the user-manipulatable control and/or with a product in the vending machine dispensed by operation of the user-manipulatable control. In some embodiments, the display is responsive to the controller by changing graphics and/or text displayed by the display.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a foot strap binding system for board sports such as water sports that allows the user to easily tension foot strap over the top of his or her foot. The foot strap adjustment device includes a strap hold-down member, a guided cable, and a reel to adjust the cable length. The hold-down member has a first side and a second side. The cable is secured to the first side and the second side of the hold-down member with guide members. The reel is secured to the tension member and to one of the sides of the hold-down member. Rotational movement of the reel selectively tightens or loosens the cable between the first and second sides of the hold-down member. Quick release of the tension on the cable is accomplished with a disengagement of the reel from a ratchet.
Abstract:
In a disclosed method for interpreting automatic speech recognition (ASR) performance data, a data processing system may receive user input that selects a log file to be processed. The log file may contain log records produced by an ASR system as a result of verbal interaction between an individual and the ASR system. In response to receiving the user input, the data processing system may automatically interpret data in the log records and generate interpretation results. The interpretation results may include a duration for a system prompt communicated to the individual by the ASR system, a user response to the system prompt, and a duration for the user response. The user response may include a textual representation of a verbal response from the individual, obtained through ASR. The interpretation results may also include an overall duration for the telephone call.
Abstract:
This invention provides an air freshener dispenser device comprising (1) a disposable air freshener cartridge which has an affixed electrical-resistance heating element on its upper section surface, and (2) an electrical plug housing. The cartridge has an elongated thermoplastic hollow body configuration with a sealed internal reservoir chamber of liquid air freshener medium, and the upper section of the cartridge body is shaped to a flat shallow extension of the cartridge chamber. A thin wick matrix extends internally from the cartridge chamber bottom up to the top of the chamber shallow extension. The cartridge has an integrally structured means adapted for removal of a top portion of the cartridge chamber shallow extension to expose an upper section of wick matrix to the atmosphere. The electrical plug housing is detachably secured and positioned proximate to the cartridge heating element. Activation of the heating element promotes air freshener dispersion into the atmosphere from the exposed wick.
Abstract:
A kayak which is convertible into a canoe. There is a kayak body having a well into which a paddler's derriere fits during use. There is also an insert having a bottom surface which is a mating fit to the well and a top surface upon which a paddler sits at a position higher than a bottom surface of the well. Preferably, there is also provision for releasably attaching an outrigger to the kayak body when the kayak is operating as a canoe.