Abstract: A correlation function computing device capable of computing a selfcorrelation function or the like is constructed to comprise a window function memorizing circuit, an A/D converting circuit for converting time series of a voice signal into digital values, a multiplier for calculating products of the window functions and the digitalized time series of the voice signal and also products required for the computation of the correlation function, a memory circuit for storing the products of the window functions and the digitalized time series of the voice signal delivered from the multiplier, a selector circuit for transferring data supplied to the multiplier, an adder for obtaining a product-sum in a divided manner, a memory circuit of a first-in and first-out type for storing the product-sum dividedly obtained in the adder, and a control circuit for controlling all of the aforementioned circuits.

Abstract: A thin film magnetic head comprises a lower magnetic member and an upper magnetic film which constitute a magnetic circuit having a magnetic gap at a predetermined location, and a conductor film forming a coil which intersects the magnetic circuit. At least the upper magnetic film has a magnetostriction constant which is not greater than 6.times.10.sup.-7 in the absolute value.

Abstract: A method of patterning a thin film by dry etching is disclosed in which, in order for a thin alumina film to have a predetermined pattern, the thin alumina film is selectively removed by carrying out the ion beam etching which uses a carbon fluoride gas, while using a photoresist film as a mask.

Abstract: Spoken words are recognized in a sequence of steps: first finding candidate words in the form of mono-syllabic sequences; then associating (correcting) each mono-syllabic sequence to more speech-like sounds, then comparing with pre-stored dictionary words for final recognition.