Abstract: Methods and related computer program products, systems, and devices for providing intelligent feedback to a user based on audio input associated with a user reading a passage are disclosed. The method can include assessing a level of fluency of a user's reading of the sequence of words using speech recognition technology to compare the audio input with an expected sequence of words and providing feedback to the user related to the level of fluency for a word.

Abstract: A network of terminals, where each terminal is operable by a student in a group as a response apparatus, is in contemporaneous communication with a teacher station. The modes of operation include visual, i.e. hand writing, hand drawing and typing, as well as audio, in particular the voice of the user, which may contemporaneously accompany the visual, such as when explaining what is being drawn. Such an apparatus can also be used by a teacher to author a lesson, including graphics and audio, providing information and questions which are recorded at the teacher station. The communication means between the student apparatuses and the teacher's station is in a preferred embodiment of the invention via an 802.11 wireless gateway when the students are in the same room as the teacher or in close proximity, or via the Internet especially in the case where individual students are remotely located from the teacher.

Abstract: An assistance kit for providing a particular assistance or performing a particular procedure includes a card having first and second flaps hingedly coupled to one another such that the first and second flaps are moveable between an opened and closed position relative one another. An audio instruction unit is affixed to the card and is adapted to provide audible instructions for providing the particular assistance or performing the particular procedure, when activated by moving the first and second flaps of the card from the closed position to the opened position.

Abstract: A method for providing audio-guided deployment of a data processing system is disclosed. An unpack instruction related to a data processing system in a first container for audio presentation is designated, and one or more position sensors in the first container are queried to determine whether the position sensors are spatially configured for audible presentation of the unpack instruction. In response to determining that the position sensors are not spatially configured for the audible presentation of the unpack instruction, a position sensor error message is audibly presented. One or more radio frequency sensors associated with the first container are queried to determine whether the first container contents are ready for audible presentation of the instruction, and in response to determining that the first container contents are not ready for audible presentation of the unpack instruction, a radio-frequency sensor error message is audibly presented.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for source language comprehension designed for a listener mastering a target language, which consists in causing the listener to listen to a statement, consisting of a series of several contents, in the source language and in displaying simultaneously with the listening of the statement a succession of notations marking the succession of contents in the source language, showing a notation marking a content only as from the time when it is being heard and showing, a series of inscriptions in the target language which corresponds to the full statement. The method is characterized in that it consists in showing the whole series of inscriptions before the beginning of the statement.

Abstract: A musical early-learning system in particular for young children, the system comprising a shelter or wall (10) having acoustic properties and that defines a space that is accessible to children, being fitted with loudspeakers (16) and control switches (18) connected to a computer system (20) so that the children actuating the control switches (18) cause predetermined sequences of sounds to be reproduced inside the shelter (10).

Abstract: An electronic apparatus which allows even a visually-handicapped user to perceive the function or state related to an operating element in advance. When an operator makes a RF tag mounted in a predetermined portion of the human body operating an operating element approach the operating element and then a RFID reader reads an ID stored in the RF tag, the function of the operating element or the state corresponding to the operating element is notified to the operator through voice in accordance with the read ID.

Abstract: An evolutionary system and method to promote the development of developing humans via auditory stimulation. The system addresses the need of growing developing humans for constantly changing auditory stimulation environments. The disclosed system comprises an auditory stimulation assembly and a corresponding set of various parental environments such as a maternity belt, a crib, a toy or a stroller. The auditory stimulation assembly may be enveloped within each and every parental environment creating a different auditory stimulating parental environment. For each and every parental environment, the auditory stimulation assembly may be configured, either automatically or manually, to produce audio signals with the characteristics most suitable to the specific parental environments, which specifically designed for the unique stage of the developing human.

Abstract: An electrographic position location apparatus and a data cartridge are disclosed. The data cartridge comprises a body and a memory device in the body. A connector extends from the body and is coupled to the memory device. A microphone is attached to or is incorporated within the body.

Abstract: An electronic audio playing apparatus with an interactive function is provided. An interactive file stored in a data storage of the electronic audio playing apparatus comprises time and sequence data, a main audio, and at least one question audio. The time and sequence data is for controlling the playing time and sequence data of the main audio and the question audios. After each question audio is played, the apparatus receives answers from the user, compares the answer from the user with a right answer, and controls an action performing device to implement an action according to the comparison result.

Abstract: A method for providing audio-guided deployment of a data processing system is disclosed. An unpack instruction related to a data processing system in a first container for audio presentation is designated, and one or more position sensors in the first container are queried to determine whether the position sensors are spatially configured for audible presentation of the unpack instruction. In response to determining that the position sensors are not spatially configured for the audible presentation of the unpack instruction, a position sensor error message is audibly presented. One or more radio frequency sensors associated with the first container are queried to determine whether the first container contents are ready for audible presentation of the instruction, and in response to determining that the first container contents are not ready for audible presentation of the unpack instruction, a radio-frequency sensor error message is audibly presented.

Abstract: Methods and computer programs for recording infant-directed speech, including: guiding a parent as to which sound to record; showing the parent an image of her infant, or asking the parent to look at an image of her infant, in order to encourage the parent to speak in an infant-directed manner; and recording the parent.

Abstract: Methods and devices operative to play auditory pieces to an infant for stimulating the development of phonetic categories. Optionally, the device determines the auditory pieces to be played to the infant according to the age of the infant. The auditory pieces including isolated phonemes in the infant's parent's voice.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for source language comprehension designed for a listener mastering a target language, which consists in causing the listener to listen to a statement, consisting of a series of several contents, in the source language and in displaying simultaneously with the listening of the statement a succession of notations marking the succession of contents in the source language, showing a notation marking a content only as from the time when it is being heard and showing, a series of inscriptions in the target language which corresponds to the full statement. The method is characterized in that it consists in showing the whole series of inscriptions before the beginning of the statement.

Abstract: Disclosed are a learning system and method for auditory learners. The system comprises recording means for capturing, digitizing, storing, and indexing voice statements; and means for allowing an auditory learner to search said indexing for desirable voice statements. The learning system further comprises means for playing on demand and broadcasting said desired voice statements to said auditory learner; means for creating an auditory live session for said learner; and means for mining said voice statements for emerging subject matter and to create new voice statements for playing on demand to said learner. The preferred embodiment of the invention is a new deployment vehicle for informal learning cultivated within a Community of Practice and broadcast over IP.

Abstract: There is provided a language learning apparatus, which includes an inputting portion to which a voice signal is input, a time stretching portion which compresses or expands the voice signal in a time axis direction such that a phonation period of a voice indicated by the voice signal input into the inputting portion is matched with a phonation period of a model voice, a specifying portion which compares the voice signal which is compressed or expanded by the time stretching portion with a voice signal indicating the model voice to specify a different part between the both voice signals, a signal processing portion which applies a signal processing of emphasizing the different part specified by the specifying portion to one of the voice signal input into the inputting portion and the voice signal indicating the model voice, and an outputting portion which outputs a voice signal to which the signal processing is applied by the signal processing portion.

Abstract: This invention is an apparatus and a method for language training and general entertainment and role-playing. It employs a computer that can play back audio or audio-visual program material, using special software to selectively direct the audio of this playback through the computer's speaker system or through a headset, with the user taking the audio routed to her headset—in particular speech—as a model and prompt to repeat this speech audibly. The user plays the role of the person in the program material whose speech is being routed to her headset, and the special software further permits the user to record her dubbing efforts along with the program material, producing a version of the program material with the user's voice recorded in place of, or in conjunction with, the voice of a character in the program material.

Abstract: The present application is generally directed to an arrangement of first and second articles of footwear which may be used in a system or method for teaching a user a plurality of individual units according to a predetermined order. The arrangement is configured to sense movement of the feet of a user and to provide one of the individual units in response to each movement sensed of the first and second foot of a user. In an exemplary form, the arrangement may provide to the user, in proper order, the letters of the alphabet as the user walks or moves while wearing the articles of footwear.

Abstract: Certain aspects and embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for monitoring and analyzing the language environment and the development of a key child. A key child's language environment and language development can be monitored without placing artificial limitations on the key child's activities or requiring a third party observer. The language environment can be analyzed to identify phones or speech sounds spoken by the key child, independent of content. The number and type of phones is analyzed to automatically assess the key child's expressive language development. The assessment can result in a standard score, an estimated developmental age, or an estimated mean length of utterance.

Abstract: A magnetically mounted motivation device with an integrated indicator is disclosed. A generally circular planar case includes a partially flexible upper surface and a lower surface that includes an acoustically transparent area. An audio storage element mounted within the generally circular planar case stores multiple spoken motivational messages. An audio output device coupled to the audio storage element is mounted within the generally circular planar case overlying the acoustically transparent area. If a switch mounted within the generally circular planar case and underlying the partially flexible upper surface is activated, the audio output device outputs one or more spoken motivational messages. A magnetic base mounted to an outer portion of the lower surface of the case surrounds the acoustically transparent area such that audio output is not impeded. A rotatable bezel mounted to the case includes multiple indicia that are indicated by a rotational position of the rotatable bezel.

Abstract: A system and method for an acoustic feedback recognition and learning aid is disclosed, comprising a hand-held electronic wand for use with an accompanying plurality of coded pictures, which when scanned cause the hand-held wand to play back an associated audio file. The invention is adaptable for many uses as a learning aid, including the sport of birding, language translation, language education, object learning, recognition training, and a variety of other similar objects as discussed herein.

Abstract: A system for the storage and retrieval of audio files includes an audio storage and retrieval device and a label with an encoded memory storage address. The audio storage and retrieval device includes a memory for storing a plurality of audio files where each stored audio file corresponds to a unique memory storage address, a decoder for reading an encoded memory storage address from the label, and a control module: i) in communication with the decoder for deriving the memory storage address corresponding to the encoded memory storage address and ii) in communication with the memory for retrieving an audio file corresponding to the memory storage address.

Abstract: An enhanced audio mixing, or editing, system characterized by a “mood” controller operable by an editor/user to control the audio mixing of multiple layers of a sound source. A mood controller in accordance with the invention stores one or more moods where each mood comprises a data set which specifies levels applicable to the multiple layers f a specified sound source. The mood controller is configured to allow an editor/user to produce a mix, or audio output track, by selecting a stored mood, or a sequence of stored moods, for application to, i.e., modulation of, a selected multilayer sound source.

Abstract: A method is provided for synchronizing an audio capture program with a streamed audio file. The method comprises receiving at least one selection request from a user connected to a server device, the transmission of a program from the server device to the user client device, the streaming of digital audio data from the server device to the client device, and the detection of state changes associated with an audio stream player disposed within the client device. The transmitted program prepares an audio capture program on the client device in response to state changes associated with the audio stream player and initiates audio capture at a fixed time interval from when the playback state change is detected.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for interactive language instruction is provided that displays text files for processing, provide key features and functions for interactive learning, displays facial animation, and provides a workspace for language building functions. The system includes a stored set of language rules as part of the text-to-speech sub-system, as well as another stored set of rules as applied to the process of learning a language. The method implemented by the system includes digitally converting text to audible speech, providing the audible speech to a user or student (with the aid of an animated image in selected circumstances), prompting the student to replicate the audible speech, comparing the student's replication with the audible speech provided by the system, and providing feedback and reinforcement to the student by, for example, selectively recording or playing back the audible speech and the student's replication.

Abstract: A comprehensive system, process and article of manufacture to facilitate comprehensive institutional, regulatory and individual continuing education (a.k.a. “CE”) requirements via a communications network comprising interactive processing components to facilitate web-based CE tracking and reporting for employers, group member registration, small business member registration, CE content providers & CE accrediting agencies, CE content editor functionality, site-to-site data transfer, provider reporting to accrediting entities, relationships with professional associations, remote CE training, tracking and distribution, CE applications service provider services, individual professional CE services, CE guidance and portfolio management, CE portfolio setup and customization, CE reporting for license reinstatement, an industry portal for licensed professionals, individual member registration, state regulation services and automated e-licensure/e-certification renewal.

Abstract: An audio assisted setup apparatus and method include providing a set of audio instructions stored in a memory, and presented to a computer purchaser to assist in setup of a computer system. The apparatus is activated automatically upon a triggering event, and runs before the computer is set up.

Abstract: A toy robot system includes a toy robot and a surface over which the robot can move. The surface is constructed from a number of modules of various types that may be joined together. Each module (except for spacer modules) includes at least one track segment along which the robot may move. Each module is square and each track segment extends from the center of the module to one side. A code readable by the robot is provided at the beginning of each segment so that the robot knows what type of module it is entering, and a code is provided at the center of each module so that the robot can calculate its position.

Abstract: Songs are defined by a song template comprising at least one track comprising a sequence of measures and a plurality of audio samples allocated to the or each track. At least two songs are played to an audience, which responds indicating the popularity of each song. A less popular song is selected and a new song composed by automatically applying one or more rules to the template of the selected song.

Abstract: A print media receiving unit is disclosed. In one embodiment, the print media receiving unit comprises a platform that includes a surface adapted to receive a print medium comprising a spine. The spine may be disposed in a spine receiving portion in the platform. A location detection system capable of determining a location of a selected region of the print medium may be associated with the platform.

Abstract: A sound generating device capable of reading codes is disclosed for reading machine readable code arranged on printing material to generate corresponding voice output. An image sensor captures an image of the machine readable code. An image processor preprocesses the image of the machine readable code for acquiring identifiable image signals. A decoder decodes the image signals, based on encoding rules of the machine readable code, into texts or symboles represented by the machine readable code. A voice generating table pre-stored with voice waveforms corresponding to various texts and symbols converts the decoded texts or symbols into voice waveforms. A digital to analog convertor converts the voice waveforms into corresponding analog speech or special sound effect to a speaker for broadcasting.

Abstract: The essence of the game with sounds consists in manipulation with game elements, each element containing a fragment of a sound sequence of musical compositions and (or) literary works. A player's task is to restore the integral sound image of original sound sequence from game elements initially arranged randomly. For this purpose during the game play the game elements are placed on a game field in a sequence, defined by a game composition and individual sound of game elements established by testing, with subsequent reproduction of mentioned composition. The device includes an input unit, storage and information readout unit, unit for breaking down initial sound sequence into fragments and assigning identification numbers, digital-to-analog converter, and also units for game element identification, the identification number readout unit, test, comparison, and hint unit. Desktop and computer modifications of device are described.

Abstract: A system, method, and article of manufacture are disclosed for providing audio that is sensitive to a context of which the audio is a part, comprising a first computer, operatively connected to a data network, that has category data representative of a plurality of categories that are associatable with a context of executable software; a second computer, operatively connected to the data network, executing at least a portion of the executable software and further comprising a plurality of audio data files that are associated with at least one of the categories; and selection software, executing in the second computer, responsive to category data sent by the first computer to select a local audio data file for reproduction at the second computer. In an embodiment, categorization software may also be present at the second computer to locate and categorize preexisting audio files.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a way of presenting a musical composition such as an orchestral piece, a song, jingle, or other musical content (complete or excerpts) as a sort of game made up of component audio tracks. In one preferred embodiment, the individual tracks are defined by layers (also called “segments”) that represent different instruments. For example, in the case of an orchestral music, the layers may represent the sounds made by a violin, flute, trumpet, drum, piano, and so on. The separate digital recordings of each layer then are the audio tracks that become pieces of a puzzle.

Abstract: A sequenced audio help label having a plurality of recorded audio messages that are played back in a predetermined sequence, one at a time, in response to a user activating a button or trigger to signal play of the next message. The label may be affixed to e.g. consumer electronic devices as a quick-start help reference system for users. In some embodiments, the messages are pre-recorded, but, in others, the user may record the messages.

Abstract: Songs are defined by a song template comprising at least one track comprising a sequence of measures and a plurality of audio samples allocated to the or each track. At least two songs are played to an audience, which responds indicating the popularity of each song. A less popular song is selected and a new song composed by automatically applying one or more rules to the template of the selected song.

Abstract: A method is provided for training different members of a musical group to perform a selected rendition of a musical work. The method comprises providing a pre-recorded media with a plurality of tracks relating to the musical work. One track includes a professional group performing their rendition of the musical work. At least one additional track emphasizes a particular performer, while de-emphasizing the other performers of the professional group. At least an additional track de-emphasizes a particular performer, while emphasizing the other performers. The pre-recorded media is employed in accordance with the method by first playing the track with all members performing so that the member of the musical group can determine how the musical work should sound. Next, the member of the musical group listens to the track that emphasizes his or her performance to learn specifically how that performance should sound. The roles of the other performers can be de-emphasized.

Abstract: The present invention provides an active primer that includes an electronically active material dispersed in a binder. The active primer can be disposed between a thermal transfer donor sheet and a receptor to assist selective thermal transfer of a material from the donor sheet to the receptor to form at least a portion of an electronic device on the receptor. The binder of the active primer can be selected to improve adhesion of the transferred material to the receptor, or to enhance other transfer properties. The electronically active material of the active primer can be selected to maintain a desired level of functionality in the electronic device being patterned on the receptor.

Abstract: A method and kit for teaching disabled students, such as children with developmental delays and disabilities such as autism, through music. The method makes extensive use of an illustrated song book and individual sound recordings of appropriate songs with lyrics, and tying the pages of the song book with the individual sound recordings of the songs by the use of icons or graphic images, including icon cards, representing respective ones of the songs. The method permits the students to find the appropriate page in the song book for following along as the selected song is being played, while also permitting the students to have a choice in the selection of songs to be experienced. The method and kit also provide the teacher with suggestions of activities for engaging the children, such activities being specific to the selected song being played.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for teaching a subject, such as an animal or child, how to vocally emulate desired sounds. Specifically, the present invention plays back a desired prerecorded sound when a sensor detects the presence of the subject. Furthermore, the present invention may provide a recording function, which allows the subject's trainer or parent to record a sound, that he or she wishes the subject to learn. This predetermined sound is then stored by the device and is played back allowing the subject to hear the sound when the sensing device detects the subject's presence. Because the subject's movement dictates the sound playback, the subject's learning of how to emulate the desired sound is facilitated. Additionally, the sound playback also provides comfort and companionship to the subject, thereby enhancing its quality of life.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating an understanding and recognition of polyphonic and orchestral music in infants and small children includes a housing, a speaker within the housing, a plurality of input devices such as buttons positioned on the housing; and a music generator within for storing and playing at least one prearranged multi-channel musical composition that is constructed and arranged to be able to, in response to actuation of at least one of the input devices by a user, change the identity of channels of the multi-channel composition that are being played over the speaker without interrupting the musical composition as it plays. The apparatus is used in a process that permits an infant or small child to experience complex, polyphonic music from a quality source in a way that maximizes the child's opportunity to learn from and develop in response to the music.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating an understanding and recognition of polyphonic and orchestral music in infants and small children includes a housing, a speaker within the housing, a plurality of input devices such as buttons positioned on the housing; and a music generator within for storing and playing at least one prearranged multi-channel musical composition that is constructed and arranged to be able to, in response to actuation of at least one of the input devices by a user, change the identity of channels of the multi-channel composition that are being played over the speaker without interrupting the musical composition as it plays. The apparatus is used in a process that permits an infant or small child to experience complex, polyphonic music from a quality source in a way that maximizes the child's opportunity to learn from and develop in response to the music.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a system in which it is possible to pre-warn the consumer who is trying to purchase contents that cannot be written on the PD that the contents cannot be written on the PD. Based on the PD writability information, the PD writability detector determines whether the contents distributed by the distribution system notified by the distribution system detector can be written on the PD. If it is determined that the contents cannot be written, the PD writability detector requests the controller to warn the consumer.

Abstract: Provided is an audio or image processing system capable of realizing virtual cooking such that a child may comprehensively enjoy and learn cooking in general while following the cooking steps. The audio or image processing system to be used for playing a game of virtual cooking comprises a plurality of input devices for respectively conducting different forms of virtual cooking, and an audio or image processing device for performing audio or image processing corresponding to the respective input devices based on data input therefrom and outputting the result thereof to an output playback device.

Abstract: An audio program and message distribution system in which a host system organizes and transmits program segments to client subscriber locations. The host organizes the program segments by subject matter and creates scheduled programming in accordance with preferences associated with each subscriber. Program segments are associated with descriptive subject matter segments, and the subject matter segments may be used to generate both text and audio cataloging presentations to enable the user to more easily identify and select desirable programming. A playback unit at the subscriber location reproduces the program segments received from the host and includes mechanisms for interactively navigating among the program segments.

Abstract: A recording device that is coupled to a book. The recording device records, saves and plays back a plurality of discrete messages. An archival control disables and enables the device, thus permitting the user to ensure that no new messages will be accidentally recorded over existing saved messages.

Abstract: A base unit has a microprocessor onboard and is programmable via a keypad. A drive is operable in accordance with a program input into the microprocessor in order to provide motive power to move the movable element. The base unit may be derived from a telephone unit of conventional type, and have wheels/axles drivable in accordance with the microprossesor program. The base unit may serve as a base for a consructional toy (which may have elements driven by the axles) and functions as an educational aid to introduce basic computer programming.

Abstract: An electronic sound and music making device includes a memory that stores a plurality of sound segments, such as musical notes, animal noises, etc., a keypad having a series of keys, each of each indicates and is associated with a different one of the stored sound segments, and a set of visual indications, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), that indicate when different ones of the sound segments are being played. The device repeats a programmable sequence of, for example, four of the stored sound segments to form a song while, simultaneously turning on different ones of the LEDs to indicate the different sound segments being played. The keypad enables a user to specify the identity and the order of the sound segments to be played and allows a user to substitute any of the sound segments stored in the memory with the sound segments being played so as to produce a new or different song.

Abstract: A multi-cultural doll is provided including a color changing mechanism situated therein for changing a color of the doll to simulate persons of various cultures.

Abstract: A novel educational audio playback device is disclosed which, in the preferred embodiment, is in the shape of a simulated telephone. On the body of the apparatus are a plurality of buttons, each of the buttons having a hinged cover mounted thereon. These hinged covers have indicia on their front, this indicia, in the preferred embodiment, being letters of an alphabet. Upon the user opening the hinged cover, a simulated sound of a telephone ringing is generated and the associated button is exposed. On each of the buttons is a symbol or picture that is representative of a character, object or thing that is related to the letter of the alphabet on the hinged cover. The letter "H", for example, could contain a picture of a nursery rhyme figure, such as Humpty Dumpty. Upon the user depressing the associated button, an index is generated that tells a circuit or microprocessor where on the internal sound storage portion of the device is to be found the appropriate sound segment.