Abstract: An adaptive interface for a programmable system, for predicting a desired user function, based on user history, as well as machine internal status and context. The apparatus receives an input from the user and other data. A predicted input is presented for confirmation by the user, and the predictive mechanism is updated based on this feedback. Also provided is a pattern recognition system for a multimedia device, wherein a user input is matched to a video stream on a conceptual basis, allowing inexact programming of a multimedia device. The system analyzes a data stream for correspondence with a data pattern for processing and storage. The data stream is subjected to adaptive pattern recognition to extract features of interest to provide a highly compressed representation which may be efficiently processed to determine correspondence.

Abstract: The need for a more-readily usable interface for programmable devices is widely recognized. The present invention relates to programmable sequencing devices, or, more particularly, the remote controls for consumer electronic devices. The present invention provides an enhanced interface for facilitating human input of a desired control sequence in a programmable device by employing specialized visual feedback. The present invention also relates to a new interface and method of interfacing with a programmable device, which is usable as an interface for a programmable video cassette recorder.

Abstract: An adaptive interface for a programmable system, for predicting a desired user function, based on user history, as well as machine internal status and context. The apparatus receives an input from the user and other data. A predicted input is presented for confirmation by the user, and the predictive mechanism is updated based on this feedback. Also provided is a pattern recognition system for a multimedia device, wherein a user input is matched to a video stream on a conceptual basis, allowing inexact programming of a multimedia device. The system analyzes a data stream for correspondence with a data pattern for processing and storage. The data stream is subjected to adaptive pattern recognition to extract features of interest to provide a highly compressed representation which may be efficiently processed to determine correspondence.

Abstract: The stapler includes a staple advancing system for applying an advancing force to a plurality of "U" shaped staples (19); a guide (16) for maintaining said plurality of "U" shaped staples (19) parallel to each other along a feed axis, said guide (35) having a channel cross section (33) including a horizontal top portion, substantially perpendicular to said feed axis, and two semi-vertical portions (37) below said horizontal top portion, each having a plane oriented downwardly inward at such an angle which does not cause plastic deformation of said "U" shaped staples (19) inserted in said guide (35), said guide (35) having an open end wherein said semivertical portions (37) merge with vertical portions (39) having walls which are substantially vertically aligned; a lower aperture (6) aligned along said feed axis with said vertically aligned walls; and a displaceable staple ejector (2) without displacing an adjacent "U" shaped staple (19).