Abstract: A data retrieval system capable of carrying out the retrieval using the secondary information of the primary data to be retrieved such as environmental information or structural information as the retrieval key. In the system, the primary data which are filing target to be stored and retrieved are stored in a first memory while secondary information associated with the primary data, which are not directly related with data content of the primary data, are stored in a second memory in correspondence to the primary data stored in the first memory. Then, when a retrieval key specifying a desired retrieval of the primary data from the first memory is entered, the secondary information is selected from the second memory in accordance with the retrieval key, and the primary data corresponding to the secondary information selected in accordance with the retrieval key is retrieved and outputted as a retrieval result.

Abstract: A speech recognition interface system capable of handling a plurality of application programs simultaneously, and realizing convenient speech input and output modes which are suitable for the applications in the window systems and the speech mail systems.

Abstract: A speech dialogue system capable of realizing natural and smooth dialogue between the system and a human user, and easy maneuverability of the system. In the system, a semantic content of input speech from a user is understood and a semantic content determination of a response output is made according to the understood semantic content of the input speech. Then, a speech response and a visual response according to the determined response output are generated and outputted to the user. The dialogue between the system and the user is managed by controlling transitions between user states during which the input speech is to be entered and system states during which the system response is to be outputted. The understanding of a semantic content of input speech from a user is made by detecting keywords in the input speech, with the keywords to be detected in the input speech limited in advance, according to a state of a dialogue between the user and the system.

Abstract: A speech dialogue system capable of realizing natural and smooth dialogue between the system and a human user, and easy maneuverability of the system. In the system, a semantic content of input speech from a user is understood and a semantic content determination of a response output is made according to the understood semantic content of the input speech. Then, a speech response and a visual response according to the determined response output are generated and outputted to the user. The dialogue between the system and the user is managed by controlling transitions between user states during which the input speech is to be entered and system states during which the system response is to be outputted. The understanding of a semantic content of input speech from a user is made by detecting keywords in the input speech, with the keywords to be detected in the input speech limited in advance, according to a state of a dialogue between the user and the system.