Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for facilitating coordination of user activities in accordance with information processing systems and, more particularly, to techniques for managing encounters with persons using such information processing systems. For example, a method for facilitating user coordination of one or more activities comprises the following steps. User personal preference input for managing an encounter with at least one other person is accepted. Input of at least one user schedule entry is received. Schedule entries of the at least one other person are evaluated and it is automatically determined whether there is an overlap between the at least one user schedule entry and the schedule entries of the at least one other person. A response to a determined overlap is automatically determined. The user personal preference input may comprise an indication of whether the user wishes to avoid an encounter with the at least one other person or coordinate an encounter with the at least one other person.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for modifying speech quality in a conversation over a voice channel. For example, a method for modifying a speech quality associated with a spoken utterance transmittable over a voice channel comprises the following steps. The spoken utterance is obtained prior to an intended recipient of the spoken utterance receiving the spoken utterance. An existing speech quality of the spoken utterance is determined. The existing speech quality of the spoken utterance is compared to at least one desired speech quality associated with at least one previously obtained spoken utterance to determine whether the existing speech quality substantially matches the desired speech quality. At least one characteristic of the spoken utterance is modified to change the existing speech quality of the spoken utterance to the desired speech quality when the existing speech quality does not substantially match the desired speech quality.

Abstract: A volume controlling system and method for regulating the output volume of a headset in order to protect the hearing ability of a user. The system includes a volume sensor/controller for monitoring the volume output of the headset by adjusting the volume to be within a predetermined threshold. A warning indicator indicates to the user or a person monitoring the listening user that the volume is set too high. The method include the steps of comparing the received audio signal to the predetermined volume threshold and adjusting the volume accordingly. The method also includes the steps of notifying that the volume has been set at too high a level by providing a warning signal, such as an audible or visual alarm.

Abstract: A smart filing system and method of use. The filing system includes a sanding or filing surface and a sensor for sensing the filed or sanded surface. An analyzing module analyzing the information obtained from the sensor and is capable of directing the system to modify the sanding. This modification may include changing the size of grains used for sanding or using a different sanding pattern and the like. A method for using the system is also provided.

Abstract: A smart filing system and method of use. The filing system includes a sanding or filing surface and a sensor for sensing the filed or sanded surface. An analyzing module analyzing the information obtained from the sensor and is capable of directing the system to modify the sanding. This modification may include changing the size of grains used for sanding or using a different sanding pattern and the like. A method for using the system is also provided.

Abstract: A volume controlling system and method for regulating the output volume of a headset in order to protect the hearing ability of a user. The system includes a volume sensor/controller for monitoring the volume output of the headset by adjusting the volume to be within a predetermined threshold. A warning indicator indicates to the user or a person monitoring the listening user that the volume is set too high. The method include the steps of comparing the received audio signal to the predetermined volume threshold and adjusting the volume accordingly. The method also includes the steps of notifying that the volume has been set at too high a level by providing a warning signal, such as an audible or visual alarm.