Abstract: A system and method for receiving, analyzing, and managing a database of calendar information obtained from a variety of source documents. Information derived and extracted from calendar documents is used establish a database of events. Extraction of relevant information from the calendar documents is facilitated by guidance in the form of user input, document templates, or other specification of the structure and content of the calendar documents.

Abstract: A system and method for receiving, analyzing, and managing key information extracted from input documents in multiple document genres. A document “genre” is the social environment that defines the document's expected structure and content. Information is extracted from the input documents based on their genre, and is synthesized into a distributed genre document, or database, representing all extracted information from all input documents. An output document having a selected genre is created by assembling information from the database consistent with the selected genre.

Abstract: A scanning pen for use in an information management system having multiple modes adapted to scan and process different data types. The scanning pen has an optical scanning head, various user controls, and a wireless link to the information management system. The pen has several input modes of operation governing the interpretation of data received through the scanning head, and feedback on the current input mode is provided to the user through visual, audible, or tactile feedback.

Abstract: A networked parasitic user interface terminal capable of deriving power from a host. The user terminal, adapted for use in a system for receiving, analyzing, and managing diverse information obtained from a variety of source documents, is structurally mounted to a host structure, such as an electrical appliance or a wall, and receives its power parasitically from its host. The user interface is connected to a digital network via a communications link and receives information to display from a remote processor. The user interface terminal does not receive any data directly from its host.

Abstract: A tileable computer display includes a first device having a processor and a display maintainable in communication with a second device having a processor and a display. Specific data to be displayed on both devices is based on respective spatial positions of the first device and second device relative to each other. Communication links can be through radio, optical, or physical interconnects.

Abstract: A plurality of multiple interacting computer devices for transferring data includes a first device having a processor and a first wireless communication module for transferring data, a second device having a processor and a second wireless communication module for transferring data, and a third device having a processor and a third wireless communication module for transferring data. When the first device is connected in substantially simultaneous wireless communication with the second device and the third device, specific data based on respective spatial positions of the first device, second device, and third device can be transferred.

Abstract: A system and method for extracting key information from digitized audio messages, including telephone voice messages. Information, such as a telephone number and the name of the caller, is derived and extracted from a voice message and used to establish links to the information within the message. The telephone number and name of the caller can then be replayed without the need to replay the entire voice message. The telephone number and name of the caller can also be used as indices into an information database.