Abstract: An integrated media image information storage and retrieval system processes information supplied by different types of media. A processor-based network server operates as a system interface between one or more user control terminals, a media image capture station through which media image input/output devices are coupled to the network server, and a memory for storing media image files to be retrieved for reproduction. A supervisory media image manipulation and control program is accessed through a supervisory graphical user interface at any user control terminal, and has embedded subordinate media image manipulation programs for different types of media and information formats. When using the interface to import information from an arbitrary medium, the user is able to generate a first, index storage file, and a supplemental text description-based file, so as to facilitate rapid retrieval of any type of data, regardless of its original format (e.g.

Abstract: A telephone operator voice storage and retrieval system is capable of presenting to the caller a played-back, previously recorded response message in the actual voice of the operator on duty at the time. The operator is also able to follow-up the played back, previously recorded response message with a conversation with the caller, without the caller detecting a change in the characteristics of the caller's perceived operator voice. The storage and retrieval system employs a voice analyzer/synthesizer coupled between a response message memory and an audio interface to the operator's audio equipment (headset). After the storage of a series of response messages, prepared by the operator, the system is ready for use in answering incoming calls. In this playback mode, as incoming calls are monitored, the appropriate operator's voice enunciated response message is accessed from memory and, via the voice synthesizer and an audio interface, that message is played back to the caller.

Abstract: A synthesized message storage and retrieval .Iadd.system .Iaddend.generates response messages by concatentating a sequence of words that have been recorded in digital memory in the voice of the operator in accordance with prescribed inflection characteristics. By linking together phrases or words having selectively chosen inflections in the voice of the operator, the resulting vocalized message will more naturally simulate the manner of speech of the operator and thereby provide a more realistic verbalization of the message to the customer. In accordance with the communications functionality of the operator's voice message mechanism, the system performs a plurality of tasks for the operator, including automatically answering all incoming calls with a prerecorded phrase dependent on the type of call being serviced and, by means of an auxiliary audio interface with the call director, the output message can be delivered to the customer whether or not the operator is connected to the call.