Abstract: A computational component for establishing a communication between a contactor and a contactee is provided that includes a user configuration agent 324 operable to (a) determine a network configuration requirement resulting from a disability of at least one of the contactor and the contactee, (b) incorporate the disability network configuration requirement in a communication set-up message; and (c) forward the communication set-up message to a communication device associated with the contactee.

Abstract: Contemplated devices and methods employ a system in which at least two receivers are configured to receive at the same time a first and a second emergency signal via a first and a second communication pathway, respectively. The device further has a control unit that is programmed to assign priority to one channel of one communication pathway over at least one channel of the other communication pathway, wherein priority assignment is performed on the basis of geographic location and a set of predefined rules. Most preferably, the location of the device is automatically determined using global positioning signals and/or digital television signals.

Abstract: A computer implemented system and method for encouraging frequent and purposeful electronic communications from caregivers to individuals with impaired memory to, inter alia, alleviate feelings of isolation and improve memory. The system includes a Web-based application through which caregivers send text, image, voice and other forms of data for receipt by the sufferer on a PDA having a simple user interface. The Web application records the dates and nature (i.e., text, audio, photograph, video) of communications sent by each caregiver, processes the data in order to display it in a variety of meaningful ways to all caregivers, thus creating a peer-pressure environment to encourage more frequent communication.

Abstract: Systems and methods related to providing error correction in a text caption are disclosed. A method may comprise displaying a text caption including one or more blocks of text on each of a first device and a second device remote from the first device. The method may also include generating another block of text and replacing a block of text of the text caption with the another block of text. Furthermore, the method may include displaying the text caption on the second device having the block of text of the first text caption replaced by the another block of text.

Abstract: A method of two-way communications between a deaf or hearing impaired person and a hearing person. Each person has a device (10) capable of communicating with each other. One of the devices executes a type-to-sign protocol for translating speech by the hearing person into corresponding signs displayed to the deaf or hearing impaired person. The other device executes a sign-to-speak protocol for translating language entered into the deaf or hearing impaired person's device into speech broadcast for the hearing person to hear from the hearing person's device. A display (18) for the deaf or hearing impaired person on that person's device displays imagery (20) of signs representing the speech of the hearing person.

Abstract: A system and method for servicing a caller at a contact center includes prompting the caller for a password associated with a certificate of disability of the caller, then accessing a database that contains the certificate authenticating the password to retrieve information listed in the certificate. The certificate information includes a type of disability of the caller. Following authentication, the system provides a service response appropriate for the type of disability of the caller. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: A method for voice browsing an integrated voice response server is described. The method includes visually displaying a representation of a choice tree for a service, where the service includes an audio menu of available actions. A selection of an action displayed in the representation is received. The method also includes automatically navigating the audio menu in order to initiate the selected action. Apparatus and computer readable media are also described.

Abstract: A hospitality system has at least one database for storing guest preferences regarding environment variables, for storing a national and/or regional origin or personal attributes of the guest. According to embodiments, advanced evacuation systems and entertainment systems are provided which fit the guest's preferences and origin.

Abstract: A communication device for visually impaired persons assists the user to determine the function of each key and input on the modern-day device. The communication device includes a plurality of surface sensors that when activated, guide the user in call placement, routing, control options and general communications. The device may include a vibration feature that causes an area on the device to vibrate. A whisper audio feature may audibly coach the user when sensed areas are touched. Additionally, a networked device may provide third party assistance to the user. The techniques of the various embodiments provide effective guidance without disrupting the user, the called party or others in proximity to the user, such as in an office-type environment.

Abstract: A system receives, from a text device, an emergency call placed by a hearing-impaired party, the emergency call being associated with information identifying a location of the text device. The system also identifies a public safety answering point (PSAP) based on the location information. The received emergency call may be forwarded to the identified PSAP.

Abstract: A system and method for initiating and realizing communication via a multi-mode system is disclosed. The method and system include realizing a preferred mode of communication. A signal indicating the preferred mode of communication is transmitted and followed by a response signal in the preferred mode. In response, the multi-mode system is adapted to provide for communication in the preferred mode.

Abstract: Text captioned telephony, in which a telephone conversation is accompanied by text captions to aid in hard-of-hearing users, is implemented without the use of specialized text captioned telephone terminals by using a combination of an Internet appliance such as a computer and a telephone or by generalized voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) telephones.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and device for assigning a telephone number to a browsing session and for providing physical location information to a public safety answering point in association with a web-based chat or relay session.

Abstract: An electronic device includes a receiver, a processor, and a presence activation sensor configured to receive a signal from a user. The user signal includes a user specific performance parameter, or the user specific performance parameter may be accessed from a memory by the processor in response to the user signal. In non-enhanced mode operation, the device receives standard signals and outputs them according to standard performance parameters. In enhanced mode operation the device receives standard signals, as well as a user signal which triggers the processor to manipulate the standard signals to output unique signals according to the user specific performance parameters.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for allowing a user to select, from a plurality of TTY-modes, one TTY-mode to associate with one phone number. The associated TTY-mode will be used for either incoming or outgoing calls using that phone number. Further disclosed are a plurality of TTY-modes to associate with individual phone numbers, and, a selectable set of default TTY-modes to use if no TTY-mode is associated with a particular phone number. Selectable audio modes, associable with phone numbers or with TTY-modes, is also discussed.

Abstract: A method includes receiving signals comprising at least one of voice information and text teletype information. The method also includes determining whether at least some of the signals contain text teletype information. The method further includes coding any of the signals containing text teletype information using a text teletype coder. In addition, the method includes coding any of the signals containing voice information using a voice coder.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for communicating with a Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD). A TDD message is transmitted to a TDD device over the VoIP network. The TDD message may be in the form of Baudot tones. The system interprets a voice markup language document to accept TDD input as a form of user input. The system receives TDD input from the TDD device based on the TDD message.

Abstract: A system and method for communicating a pre-stored emergency message from a TTY to a PSAP may include, in response to receiving an emergency call signal, accessing a pre-stored emergency message stored in a memory. A PSAP may be dialed. In one embodiment, the PSAP may be dialed by the user dialing 911 or the TTY may automatically dial 911 in response to the user selecting a hard or soft-button associated with communicating an emergency message to a PSAP. The pre-stored emergency message may be communicated to a PSAP using a TTY communications protocol. A TTY compatible device utilized by a PSAP operator may be configured to provide the PSAP operator with pre-stored messages available for selection and communication to the emergency caller. By providing pre-stored messages on TTY devices, emergency communications between users of the TTY devices may be expedited, thereby potentially saving lives.

Abstract: The invention relates to a neckloop for being coupled with a transformer element and for generating an electromagnetic signal for being received by a telecoil of a hearing device or by an induction receiver. In order to avoid strangulation of the person wearing the neckloop the neckloop comprises a teleloop cable having a first end and a second end, and a first magnet and a second magnet for forming a clasp of the neckloop. The first and second magnets are of opposite polarity. The first magnet is provided with a first plating and the second magnet is provided with a second plating. The first plating is in direct contact with the first end and the second plating is in direct contact with the second end.

Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) interface implemented by a server computing system. In one embodiment, the server computing system may be configured to receive an incoming telephony call from a TDD protocol-based device placed to a telephone number associated with the server computing system. In response to the incoming telephony call, the server computing system may invoke an automated telephony services application and associate a TTD interface with the incoming telephony call. The server computing device may output information from the automated telephony services application to the TDD protocol-based device via the TDD interface as TDD protocol-based data. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: A method, system and device for visually spatial caller identification includes a caller identification visual alerting device configured to capture current caller identification information from an incoming call. A stored caller identification list stores a plurality of entries of reference caller identification information and a corresponding respective plurality of entries of spatial visual indicator patterns. The reference caller identification information is matched with the current caller identification information. The caller identification visual alerting device further includes a spatial visual indicator configured to activate a plurality of illuminatable elements according to one of the plurality of spatial visual indicator patterns.

Abstract: IP text relay or phone captioning is described herein, to facilitate communication through the use of traditional phone or VOIP or internet telephone system between people of hearing impaired and those who can hear. This service and device will enable users to communicate with users of hearing via assistance of an operator who will transcribe the call, while also receiving the Caller ID of the calling party and not the relay center.

Abstract: Systems and methods for displaying visual content to a user corresponding to sound captured at a user terminal are disclosed. After receiving over a network from a user terminal a request to convert sound into a visual content representing the sound, wherein the sound comprises one or more words, a translation server may retrieve text corresponding to the one or more words from a database. The translation server may then convert the text into one or more content phrases, wherein the content phrases represent the meaning of the one or more words, and convert each of the one or more content phrases into a new language. Finally, the translation server may send visual content to the user terminal representing the new language.

Abstract: A method and system for call initiation and the establishment of a communication session in a video relay service are described. A called party number of a voice phone is entered into a video phone and a first segment of a communication session is established between the video phone and a Video Relay Service (VRS) system according to a network address of the VRS system stored within the video phone. The called party number is forwarded to the VRS system over the first segment of the communication session. A second segment of the communication session is established between the VRS system and the voice phone without any additional interaction by a user of the video phone using the called party number of the voice phone.

Abstract: A method, system and device for relay call transfer services in hearing-impaired communications is described. A voice phone number of a relay service is entered into a voice phone and a first segment of a communication session is established between a hearing-capable user on a voice phone and a relay service. The hearing-capable caller provides the relay service with a contact number of a hearing-impaired user. The relay service accesses the user profile of the hearing-impaired user and determines the user's preferred communication devices listed from most preferred to least preferred. An interpreter or communications assistant attempts to establish a connection to the hearing-impaired user's most preferred communication device. If the relay service fails to establish a connection with the most preferred communication device, the relay service can then transfer the call to a subsequent call service system that corresponds to the hearing-impaired user's next most preferred communication device.

Abstract: The bandwidth use for Video Relay Service (VRS) assisted calls for hearing impaired individuals is reduced by transmitting a sequence of corresponding sign identification (ID) numbers rather than a video of the signing itself. The signs may be captured by a video camera and recognized by a previously trained sign recognition algorithm, which advantageously converts the signs to sign ID numbers for transmission. Then, at the receiving end, the sequence of ID numbers may be advantageously re-converted back into signs, which may, for example, be displayed on a video screen with use of an artificially created (e.g., a “cartoon”) image comprising (at least) a pair of hands.

Abstract: A method and system manages content delivery to a multi-modal client device. The system may include a session manager logically connected between a server and the client device. The session manager can maintain a record of the state of a user's session, and if the user or the client device switches from an initial presentation mode to a second presentation mode, the session manager can use the record to effect a seamless transfer from the initial presentation mode to the subsequent presentation mode. The session manager may also transcode content delivered to the client device so that the content is compatible with the presentation mode selected by the user.

Abstract: A mobile wireless communications device is for a user wearing an electronic hearing aid adjacent an ear of the user and may include an upper housing and a lower housing being slidably connected together for sliding between a retracted position and an extended use position. An audio output transducer may be carried by the upper housing and accessible to the hearing aid of the user adjacent a top end of the upper housing, and an audio input transducer may be carried by the lower housing and accessible to a mouth of the user adjacent a bottom end of the lower housing. An antenna may be carried by the lower housing adjacent the bottom end thereof so that the hearing aid is further separated from the antenna when the upper and lower housings are in the extended use position to reduce undesired coupling from the antenna to the hearing aid.

Abstract: The keyboard for blind people comprises a body carrying a plurality of keys and interface means for its connection to an external unit. The keys have a number of portions each having associated a function of the key and having represented such a function in Braille characters thereon. Moreover, the keys are jerky rotatable connected to the body so as to select one of the portions of the key and are also pressable in order to activate that function associated to the activable portion, so that each function is selected through rotations and subsequent pressure of the corresponding key portion.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a conversation support apparatus and a conversation support method that allow users to effectively and smoothly onverse with each other. According to the present invention, since a first display section 22 and a second display section 32 can be placed at different angles, while a first user is watching the second display section 32 and a second user is watching the first display section 22, they can smoothly converse with each other. Since the first display section 22 and the second display section 32 are disposed, for example the second user and the first user can face-to-face converse with each other.

Abstract: The nature of the disclosures of the Telephone Grid is a new process of jotting down telephone numbers. It is a process of checking off numbers on a grid, instead of having to write them down. It is especially useful to people who cannot write quickly, like the elderly or handicapped, as well as useful to business people who need to read and record numbers accurately.

Abstract: One or more of telephony functions and communication routing management are controlled by one or more of presence information, environmental information and physiological information. An analysis of the one or more of presence information, environmental information and physiological information is compared with a profile and the one or more of telephony functions and communication routing modified in accordance with a rule set associated with the profile. The environmental and physiological information can be acquired by a communications device associated with a person or through the communications device communicating with one or more dedicated environmental or physiological sensors.

Abstract: A method in one example has: applying, for a telephone having a plurality of number buttons having at least a nine button and a one button, a first predetermined color to the nine button and a second predetermined color to the one button, the remaining number buttons having a third predetermined color, the first, second, and third predetermined colors being three different colors; and pushing the number buttons in a sequence first predetermined color—second predetermined color—second predetermined color to dial an emergency telephone number. In one embodiment the first predetermined color may be red, and the second predetermined color may be yellow. Therefore, a 911 emergency telephone number may be dialed by pushing the number buttons in the order red-yellow-yellow.

Abstract: Captioned telephone are devices intended to provide text captions to persons needing assistance with telephone communications. Captioned telephones provide text by using the services of a relay interposed between the assisted user and the hearing user, the relay providing the captioning for the assisted user. While captioned telephone service can be delivered over a single telephone line, if the assisted user has two telephone lines available for the captioning service, additional features and advantages are possible in the delivery of captioned telephone service to the user.

Abstract: An approach is provided for selectively translating a communication session and associated media among different formats based on user sensory impairment, preferred communication format, device capability, and restrictive environmental conditions.

Abstract: Text is interleaved and transported along with media data over the same real-time Internet Protocol (IP) media transport session. A network processing device identifies text characters corresponding with text signaling. The identified text characters are formatted into text packets and sent over the same real-time IP media transport session used for real-time media transport. The media transport session can identify the sequence that the text characters are transmitted and can specify a maximum character transfer rate.

Abstract: A device for transmitting TTY communications includes an input for receiving analog tones from a TTY device, a first output for connecting to a public telephone switch network (PSTN) and a second output for connecting to digital communications network. The device is configured to operate in a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode the device receives the analog tones at the input and transmits the analog tones over the PSTN through the first output. In the second mode, the device receives the analog tones at the input, converts the analog tones into transmission control protocol (TCP) packets and transmits the TCP packets over a digital communications network through the second output.

Abstract: A telephone handset that includes both a speaker and a secondary flux coil is provided. The secondary flux coil provides improved inductive coupling between the handset and a hearing aid. Due to the wiring configuration of the handset, the speaker and the secondary flux coil can be independently filtered, thus providing means for independently optimizing the performance of both the speaker and the secondary flux coil. Suitable filters include both passive circuits and digital signal processors.

Abstract: A telephone for the visually impaired is disclosed, which comprises a frame and a receiver. The frame is configured with an operation panel and a receiver holder, whereas there are a keypad being disposed at a position on top of the operation panel and a first protruding dot being disposed at a position beneath the operation panel. Moreover, the receiver holder is an open structure that is formed extruding from a side of the frame and is configured with a pressing part. With the aforesaid devices, any visually impaired person is able to place the receiver on the receiver holder in a trouble-free manner while enabling the pressing part to be compressed exactly by the receiver; and he/she is able to recognize the exact location of the keypad for placing a dial as soon as the first protruding dot is felt by the hand of the visually impaired person.

Abstract: A method and a terminal are provided for performing a Teletype/Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TTY/TDD) service where the wireless terminal changes to a vibration mode when the TTY/TDD service is performed. If a called party number and a call key are input, a call connection request signal is transmitted and a first vibration is generated. A second vibration is generated if a call ready signal is received after the call connection request signal is transmitted. A third vibration is generated if an absence signal is received.

Abstract: A method and system are provided that examine incoming and outgoing TTY transmissions to determine an identifier for distinguishing between correspondents in a TTY call. The system may utilize contact information associated with an incoming or outgoing call to provide visual distinctions, and/or flow control, to the text from each party as it is displayed on a TTY device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for telephony tone signal and character code generation for QWERTY keyboards includes a QWERTY style keyboard, a processor and a keyboard mode control software module. The QWERTY style keyboard has a plurality of letter keys, wherein each letter key is configured to generate a unique input signal. The processor is coupled to the keyboard and is configured to convert each unique input signal generated by the letter keys into a character code and/or a telephony tone signal. The keyboard mode control software module operates on the processor, and controls whether the processor converts the unique input signals from the letter keys into character codes or telephony tone signals.

Abstract: A video relay system for allowing impaired individuals to communicate across a network includes a first device capable of sending and receiving audio and video signals where the first device is coupled to a network and includes an application. The application on the first device is configured to communicate with a second device, regardless of whether the second device includes the application. The application is also configured to transmit to and receive from the second device a sign language video signal. When the first device is in a voice carryover mode, the application is configured to transmit an audio signal to the second device. When the first device is in a hearing carryover mode, the application is configured to receive an audio signal from the second device.

Abstract: A method is provided in a telecommunications network for clandestinely providing a transmission relay service (TRS) to a called party (30). The method includes: receiving a first call from a calling party (10), the first call being received at a network node (40) serving a called party (30) for which the first call is intended; detecting the called party (30) answering the first call; and, determining whether or not to invoke a feature (44) supported by the network node (40).

Abstract: A method and system for distributing video calls includes receiving a plurality of incoming video calls originating from a corresponding plurality of calling endpoints over a data network. A corresponding plurality of first connections is formed with each of the plurality calling endpoints. Data is streamed over the plurality of first connections while the plurality of calling endpoints awaits availability of one answering endpoint. A second connection is then formed between one of the plurality of calling endpoints and the one answering endpoint to replace one of the plurality of first connections when the one answering endpoint is available.

Abstract: A method for providing communication services for the hearing-impaired may include receiving a telephone call from a hearing-impaired party or a hearing party. The method may also include forwarding the telephone call to a communication assistant and establishing a communication link, such an Internet protocol link, that links the hearing-impaired party, the communication assistant and the hearing party.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a contact processing system that includes: (a) a gateway operable to receive an incoming contact and transmit at least one TTY character to the contactor; and (b) a TTY contact identifier operable to (i) determine whether a TTY response is received within a selected time from the contactor, wherein steps (b) and (c) are performed before the contact is routed to a contact center resource; (ii) when a TTY response is received within the selected time, rout the contact to a TTY-enabled contact center resource; and (iii) when no TTY response is received within the selected time, process the contact as a non-TTY-enabled contact.

Abstract: A mobile communication device 10 for converting between alphanumeric data and TTY formatted data. A conversion table 20, 40 is stored in a memory associated with microprocessor 16 of mobile 10. Microprocessor 16 converts alphanumeric characters input by a user to TTY formatted data for transmission in digital mode. TTY formatted signals that are received by mobile 10 are converted to alphanumeric data by TTY decoder 26 and microprocessor 16 for display on mobile display 14. In analog mode, tone generator 44 produces a Baudot tone formatted signal for transmission from mobile 10. Tone detector 46 detects Baudot tone formatted signals received in analog mode. Microprocessor 16 converts the Baudot tone formatted signals to alphanumeric data for display on display 14.

Abstract: A relay is described to facilitate communication through the telephone system between hearing users and users who need or desire assistance in understanding voice communications. To overcome the speed limitations inherent in typing, the call assistant at the relay does not type most words but, instead, re-voices the words spoken by the hearing user into a computer operating a voice recognition software package trained to the voice of that call assistant. The text stream created by the computer and the voice of the hearing user are both sent to the assisted user so that the assisted user can be supplied with a visual text stream to supplement the voice communications. A time delay in the transmission of the voice of the hearing user through the relay is of assistance to the assisted user in comprehending the communications session.

Abstract: An electronic communications system for the deaf includes a video apparatus for observing and digitizing the facial, body and hand and finger signing motions of a deaf person, an electronic translator for translating the digitized signing motions into words and phrases, and an electronic output for the words and phrases. The video apparatus desirably includes both a video camera and a video display which will display signing motions provided by translating spoken words of a hearing person into digitized images. The system may function as a translator by outputting the translated words and phrases as synthetic speech at the deaf person's location for another person at that location, and that person's speech may be picked up, translated, and displayed as signing motions on a display in the video apparatus.