Abstract: The invention improves recognition rates by providing an interactive speech recognition device that performs recognition by taking situational and environmental changes into consideration, thus enabling interactions that correspond to situational and environmental changes.

Abstract: A technique for improving speech recognition in low-cost, speech interactive devices. This technique calls for implementing a speaker-specific word enrollment and detection unit in parallel with a word detection unit to permit comprehension of spoken commands or messages issued by binary questions when no recognizable words are found. Preferably, specific speaker detection will be based on the speaker's own personal list of words or expression. Other facets include complementing non-specific pre-registered word characteristic information with individual, speaker-specific verbal characteristics to improve recognition in cases where the speaker has unusual speech mannerisms or accent and response alteration in which speaker-specification registration functions are leveraged to provide access and permit changes to a predefined responses table according to user needs and tastes.

Abstract: A copying machine is provided which generally includes a scanner unit (2) for reading an original image, a line type thermal head (14) for printing the read image on to a tape (16) which is used as a recording medium, a tape cartridge (51) for supplying the tape, and a tape conveying mechanism. The tape (16) has an image carrying sheet (161) with a front surface forming a printing face, and a back surface forming an adhesive layer (162) formed by applying an adhesive, and a release sheet (163) releasably stuck to the surface of the adhesive layer. The tape may be rolled into a tape roll and placed in a tape cartridge (51) which is detachably fitted into the body of the copying machine. Both ends of the tape have conveyance border portions of a uniform width. Engaging holes are formed in the border portions, at regular intervals in the direction of the tape length. The tape conveying mechanism has sprockets (183, 184) with projections being capable of engaging the engaging holes on the outer circumferences.