Abstract: A speech engine for producing synthetic speech from an input in convention orthography. The speech engine analyses the input data into small elements which are used to produce the synthetic speech. The analysis is carried out with the aid of a skeletal database 11 and a plurality of symbolic processor 12-16 each of which is adapted to preform one linguistic task. Each processor 13-16 obtains its data from the database 11 (processor 12 obtains its data from an input buffer 10). Each processor returns its results to the database 11. The database 11 is organised in accordance with the linguistic structures so that the results and intermediate results are not only stored but the linguistic relationships are also available. Preferably the database 11 is formed of a plurality of storage modules (1/1-5/7) each of which has an address. Each module has a register 100 which holds an item of data being either an intermediary or final result.

Abstract: The pitch of synthesized speech signals is varied by separating the speech signals into a spectral component and an excitation component. The latter is multiplied by a series of overlapping window functions synchronous, in the case of voiced speech, with pitch timing mark information corresponding at least approximately to instants of vocal excitation, to separate it into windowed speech segments which are added together again after the application of a controllable time-shift. The spectral and excitation components are then recombined. The multiplication employs at least two windows per pitch period, each having a duration of less than one pitch period. Alternatively each window has a duration of less than twice the pitch period between timing marks and is asymmetric about the timing mark.

Abstract: An improved oil reclamation device for removing contaminates from lubricating oils and hydraulic fluids. A first feature of this oil reclamation device an improved utilization of space, which provides the benefit of a compact installation. Another benefit of this design is an efficient design of the second chamber, which virtually eliminates cold spots and vapor condensation. Another benefit of this design is the efficient use of operating oil to heat the evaporation surface evenly and effectively without the need of any additional heat source. This design eliminates cold spots on the evaporation surface and the need for potentially dangerous heating elements. A further benefit of this design is an oil metering system which is highly resistant to clogging and easily serviced.