Abstract: A system for eliminating unsolicited electronic mail generates and stores a user inclusion list including identification data for identifying e-mail desired by the user. Data from one or more fields of incoming electronic mail messages are compared with the identification data stored in the user inclusion list. If the electronic mail message data matches corresponding identification data from the user inclusion list, the e-mail message is marked with a first display code, such as "OK." If no match is detected, the system performs at least one heuristic process to determine whether the electronic mail message may be of interest to the user. If the message satisfies one or more criteria as determined by the heuristic process and is therefore of potential interest to the user, the message is marked with a second display code, such as "NEW." If the e-mail message does not satisfy any of the heuristic criteria, the e-mail message may be marked with a third display code, such as "JUNK." The processed e-mail messages are displayed to the user in a display mode corresponding to the display codes respectively assigned to the messages.

Abstract: A graphical user interface for an entertainment system assists a viewer while navigating channels. The user interface is a channel bar which is displayed together with the currently selected channel. The channel bar has a plurality of linearly arranged channel-related icons for navigating the channels. A viewer-controllable focus is movable along the channel bar to permit the viewer to select and actuate any one of the icons, causing the entertainment system to jump to the channel associated with the selected icon. The entertainment system is a computerized viewing unit which has a processor, memory, and a multitasking operating system that provides a graphical user interface environment which supports presentation of graphical windows. An application executes on the processor to provide the channel bar user interface. An input device--such as a mouse, keyboard, remote control handset, etc.--enables the viewer to invoke the channel bar and to manipulate the focus along the channel bar. The channel bar UI includes a banner which contains information pertaining to the presently selected channel and a recent channels bar which contains linearly-arranged actuatable icons that are associated with channels that have been most recently selected by the viewer. The channel bar UI also includes a favorite channels bar having actuatable icons for channels most preferred by the viewer and a tools bar having actuatable icons that are associated with control features for operating the entertainment system. The tools bar has an icon which permits a viewer to toggle between a television mode, in which programs are displayed full screen, and a windows mode in which the program and channel bar are confined to a window.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer program products for annotating documents are described herein, wherein in some embodiments the documents are immutable. The method operates by enabling a user to place an application in an annotation mode. An annotation is created, and then linked to a portion of an immutable data object. Location information is displayed proximate to the annotation mode location information indicates a location of the linked portion in the data object.

Abstract: A cellular radio system in which a base station receiver can receive, on the reverse link, data from a mobile terminal in four modes. In the first mode, the mobile terminal sends an independent user pilot on the reverse link and the user data channel is synchronized to this independent user pilot. In the second mode, the mobile terminal slaves its user pilot to the received base station's pilot and the user data channel is synchronized with the user pilot. In the third mode, the mobile terminal slaves its user pilot to the received base station pilot, but the user data channel operates in the orthogonal mode using the ranging information received from the base station. The phase relationship between the user pilot channel and the user data channel is calibrated. The user pilot carrier is also the carrier for the user data channel and can be used as the carrier reference for detecting the user data channel. In the fourth mode, the slaved pilot implementation of mode three is used for acquisition but, after acquisition, the user pilot code is phase shifted to be synchronous with the user data channel, making it an orthogonal channel.

Abstract: The design and implementation of a conceptual model, CAFE (Categorization Assistant For E-mail), is described. The model supports the organization, searching and retrieval of information in e-mail. Three modes are available for satisfying the users' needs in various situations: the busy mode for intermittent use at times of high stress; the cool mode for continuous use at the computer; and the curious mode for sporadic use when exploring and (re-)organizing messages when more time is at hand. The design of the model is motivated partly by the results of a case study of categorization on the computer screen, and partly by a survey of e-mail clients. The case study was inspired by cognitive science theories. The model is related to information seeking theories in electronic environments. In the implementation each mode required using a different technique. The busy mode uses the text-based Naive Bayesian algorithm, the cool mode uses e-mail filtering rules, and the curious mode uses a combination of clustering techniques known as scatter/gather.

Abstract: A method and implementing computer system are provided in which screensavers are used to lock a workstation and present an eye-pleasing display while the user is away from the workstation. Users are enabled to select from a plurality of screensaver types which are applied in a screensaver mode. The screensaver displays include application indicia representative of work-in-progress when a screensaver mode was activated. The application indicia can be selectively obscured to hide work which may be of a sensitive or proprietary nature.

Abstract: ActiMates™ Barney™ represents a new form of interactive learning product for two- to five-year old children: a small computer that looks like an animated plush doll. He can be used as a freestanding toy and, by means of a wireless radio link, he can interact with PC-based software and linear videotapes. In each mode, Barney takes advantage of children’s social expectations about playmate performance to engage the user in learning interactions. The theory and practice behind Barney’s performance in each mode (freestanding, with the computer, and with the television) are described, as well as how key research results shaped the interface across the different modes.

Abstract: A system for automatically switching a computer to a password protected screen saver mode when a computer user leaves the proximity of the computer. The system includes a proximity sensor that determines whether or not an individual is located proximate the computer. The proximity sensor interfaces with either the computer a bus bridge, a keyboard controller, a keyboard, or some another component of the computer to cause the computer to start executing a screen saver program responsive to an output signal from the proximity sensor. A variety of proximity sensors may be used, including ultrasound, infrared, or electromagnetic proximity sensors. A proximity sensor may also detect the presence of the computer user by detecting the weight of the user at a location proximate the computer.

Abstract: A method for navigating through video matter by means of displaying a plurality of key-frames in parallel, whilst allowing selective accessing of displayed keyframes for thereupon controlling actual access to said video matter as representing a mapping of so accessed keyframes, said method being characterized by allowing within a single user interface organization to select between a first operative mode for arranging keyframes in a temporally ordered manner on the screen and a second operative mode for arranging keyframes with multiple selectible granularities between contiguous keyframes as displayed.

Abstract: A computer system modifies digital images of the human form as well as other objects. The computer system provides intuitive means for accessing warp, smooth, stretch, copy, and paste tools for image modification; undo, toggle and restore tools for change management; and zoom, fit, and full tools for image display sizing. The computer system is controlled by a program that uses a combination of novel approaches to make image manipulation fast and easy. Buttons are displayed only when they are actually available for use, based on the current system operating mode. The image sizing tools enable an image size change to accomodate the tool size without a required change to the cursor state or to the edit mode state. When regions are defined by the user, the cursor shape changes to indicate whether the cursor is located inside a region, outside the region, and on the region bounding box; allowing a user to perform different operations depending upon cursor location rather than depending upon, and requiring, user executed button pushing as a specific operation. The computer system uses display contexts and bitmap masks that enhance operation speed. Operations are always performed on the full image resolution rather than a displayed image resolution.

Abstract: A database management system (DBMS) is modified to provide improved concurrent usage of database objects, particularly when the system is executing long lived transactions. A subset of the transactions access database objects using parameterized read and parameterized write access modes. Each transaction using a parameterized write mode of access for a database object specifies a write access mode, and a write access mode parameter, where the parameter indicates a data reliability classification. Each transaction using a parameterized read mode of access for a database object specifies a read access mode, and a read access mode parameter, where the parameter indicates one or more reliability classifications that are acceptable to the transaction. Whenever a transaction requests access to a specified database object, the DBMS generates a corresponding lock request for the object. If the lock request is a parameterized lock request, a corresponding parameterized lock request is generated. A lock manager processes each lock request by checking to see if any outstanding, previously granted lock is unconditionally conflicting or conditionally conflicting with the requested lock. Two lock requests are unconditionally conflicting if their resource range overlaps and the access modes of the two requests are incompatible. Two requests are conditionally conflicting if analysis of their read/write parameters is necessary to determine whether a conflict exists. A conditional conflict is resolved by determining whether the write parameters for the write lock in question are a subset of the read parameters for the read lock in question.

Abstract: In response to an instruction by a user, or by performing reception, detection and assumption processing, the presence state of the user is determined, and corresponding presence mode conversion data are acquired and are set as user presence data. When the presence mode conversion data are referred to, and processing that corresponds to the user's presence state is performed: when the user is present, urgent mail is transmitted, and when the user is absent, a message for the user is accepted.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for activating an operational mode for a portable intelligent communications device when a user thereof is engaged in a meeting. The operational mode includes various settings of the portable intelligent communications device configured therefor with such settings being activated upon initiation of the meeting. The operational mode is then deactivated upon completion of the meeting. Both activation and deactivation of the operational mode may be accomplished either automatically or manually. In either case, the settings for the operational mode are configured via a graphical user interface on a display screen of the portable intelligent communications device.

Abstract: In response to an internet interrogation by a user for goods or services, a hypermedia presentation is provided that starts out with delivery and presentation of simple thumbnail descriptions of the available goods and services, and proceeds in steps through delivery and presentation of more complex descriptions. The presentations are arranged in segments and permit multiple modes of operation. Each mode has a different set of attributes that permit progress through the presentation in a different manner. When a user first enters a website, he is placed in navigation mode which enables him to browse the website by moving from category to category of goods, having an initial look at the offerings of each category. The user can then move on to the inspection and/or transaction modes. In the inspection mode: the user can examine in more detail the various aspects of the goods he is interested in; can change to a more detailed explanation; zoom in on various portions of the goods; and obtain related information. When the user enters the transaction mode, he is apparently ready to purchase the goods and is given appropriate options for this purpose such as: to obtain a quote; to ask for human assistance, and to trigger a transaction. As the user navigates through the presentation in one or more of its modes of operation, his selection process is monitored not only for this overt acts concerning selected goods and services, but also for other factors that may be revealed by the user's selection process.

Abstract: A communication device ( 100 ) operates in first and second modes of operation including a dispatch mode of operation and a telephone mode of operation. The device ( 100 ) includes a main body ( 124 ) having a top surface ( 126 ) and a cover ( 102 ). The cover 102 selectively moves between at least a first position wherein at least a portion of the top surface ( 126 ) is covered to provide for selective operation in the dispatch mode and at least a second position wherein the top surface ( 126 ) is exposed to provide for selective operation is the telephone mode of operation. The cover ( 102 ) includes a see through section ( 108 ) covering at least a portion of the display section ( 114 ) when the cover ( 102 ) is in the first position in order to protect the display section ( 114 ) and simultaneously provide access thereto. The cover ( 102 ) also includes through access keys ( 106 ) which provide access to the keypad ( 116 ) even when the cover ( 102 ) is closed. The display section ( 114 ) includes soft key designation areas ( 502 ) and ( 504 ) whose textual contents change depending on the position of the cover ( 102).

Abstract: A method to configure a device for remote management that is transparent to an advanced configuration and power interface (ACPI) operating system is described. The method includes configuring a device in a computer system when a transition between power states is being effected by the advanced configuration and power interface operating system including the step of causing the computer system to enter a non-ACPI mode in response to the transition being effected, configuring the device while in the non-ACPI mode, and completing the transition after the configuring of the device. The method may be stored in any media that is readable and executable by a computer system.

Abstract: A method of controlling a computer system (10) comprising the steps of: disposing a computer (12) in an operating space and placing the computer (12) in a lockout mode to prevent operation of the computer software by a user. A database (26) of authorized user codes is compiled in the computer. A transponder (20) places a first authorized user code in the operating space and a transceiver (18) scans the operating space for the presence of a transponder transmitting an authorized user code and senses the presence of the first authorized user code in the operating space. A comparator (29) compares the first authorized user code to the database (26) for verification to unlock the computer (12) for use by the first authorized user in response to sensing the authorized user code in the operating space. The authorized user then is free to operate the computer software while the sensing for the presence of a transponder (20) transmitting an authorized user code in the operating space is continued.

Abstract: Automatic switching between two executable programs occurs between a first mode wherein a first executable program is visible and active, and a second mode wherein a second executable program is visible and active. Switching is triggered by detecting that the first executable program has initiated an information processing mode. The first mode is restored upon completion of information processing. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, the first executable program is a browser for requesting, receiving and displaying information obtained from remote information sources, the first mode is a browser mode, and the information processing mode is the requesting by the browser for information.

Abstract: A portable phone has a controller with an associated storage for the storage of the setting for a plurality of functions which may be set individually by the user. The controller arranges the stored settings as groups which each define a phone mode selectable by the user. Each mode is associated with at least one control parameter. The controller is associated with at least one sensor for sensing said at least one control parameter, and it automatically selects the phone mode in response to the sensed control parameter.

Abstract: A multiple-function copier includes a printer, a scanner, a user interface, and a communications mechanism. The printer is configured to receive print jobs from a network environment. The scanner is operatively coupled with the printer and configured to receive copy jobs from a walk-up user. The printer and the scanner are selectively operative in a print mode and a copy mode. The user interface is associated with one of the printer and the scanner and is accessible by a walk-up user. The user interface is operative to detect submission of a copy job to the scanner by a walk-up user. The communications mechanism is signal coupled with the printer and the scanner, and is operative to automatically configure the printer and the scanner for operation in the copy mode in response to a walk-up user interacting with the user interface. A method is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for controlling access to at least one program on a processing system by verifying data entered through a keyboard, while isolating the entered data from the processing system The apparatus comprises a memory and a processor coupled to the memory A first data path is provided between the keyboard and the processing system; a second data path is provided between the keyboard and the processor; and a third data path is provided between the processing system and the processor When activated, the processor is operable in a first mode wherein access to the processing system via the keyboard is inhibited when data entered via the keyboard does not match data stored on the card The processor is operable in a second mode, wherein the keyboard is coupled to the processing system so that the at least one program on the processing system is accessible via the keyboard when the entered matches the data stored on the card Various embodiments are disclosed

Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device (102) carried by a user during exercise for measuring non-invasively at least one signal from the body, e.g. a wireless heart rate monitor, and to a method of controlling same. The measuring device comprises a user interface (120). The user interface comprises selection means (114), e.g. push buttons (114), and display means (116, 122), e.g. a liquid crystal display. The user interface (116) displays different operating modes, e.g. a watch mode (300), a set mode (306) and an operating mode (302) for measuring a signal from the body. The operating modes have different sub-operating modes for displaying parameter associated with exercising. In accordance with the invention, the user is shown specified operating modes and sub-operating modes. There is also a special help operating mode, which, when being switched on, allows each selection means available in said operating mode or sub-operating mode to be indicated to the user by automatic stepping, and the function to be performed by selecting said selection means to be specified.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically changing the operation of a dual-mode digitizer tablet system. The system comprises a cordless pen device generating an electromagnetic wave of a variable frequency and a cordless mouse device generating an electromagnetic wave of a different frequency. The cordless pen device operates in an absolute mode and the cordless mouse device operates in a relative movement mode. The apparatus comprises a detection loop sensing circuit for detecting electromagnetic waves and a signal processing circuit for extracting the signal of either the pen device or the mouse device. The extracted signal is rectified and digitized for determining the position of the cordless pointing device by a micro-controller. A frequency counter determines the frequency of the detected signal. By detecting and determining the frequency of the electromagnetic wave received in the tablet system, the operation mode is adjusted automatically.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel and way to use a twelve button telephone keypad for alphanumeric data entry. This invention also relates to a method of alphanumeric data entry using short duration or long duration binary key actuations using a simultaneous coding system and/or sequential coding system for communicating on a standard twelve key push-button telephone keypad. Two binary keys are used for an all capital letter mode or two binary keys for a lower-case letter mode, along with three binary keys for an upper-case letter mode, for producing full alphanumeric text, including punctuation, symbols and control.

Abstract: A system and method for a user interface to input URL address data obtained from captured video frames while simultaneously viewing a television broadcast, the system having a television with associated television screen, a set-top box, and a remote control. The invention also includes means for initiating a video-viewing mode (where the television receives a television signal via the set-top box and displays the television signal on the television screen), a capture manager for capturing image data frames from the television signal, an interface manager for displaying information windows on the display screen, and a search manager for retrieving data pages from a networked source such as the Internet.

Abstract: A multiple function graphical user interface for a speech recognition application adapted for generation by a computer programmed with a routine set of instructions, the interface comprising: an activatable icon defining an elongated screen display area, the icon having separately controllable foreground and background displays substantially coextensive with the display area; the background display being substantially fully changeable in response to user speech into a microphone having at least two states; text being displayable in the foreground display across substantially all of the display area; and, activation of the icon invoking a function related to the speech recognition application. A border can be selectively displayed around the elongated screen display area for indicating whether the speech application is in a navigation mode or a dictation mode.

Abstract: A handheld computer which contains an LCD display having a digitizing surface to allow pen input. Internal storage takes several forms, such as a large flash ROM area, battery-backed up RAM and an optional hard disk drive. Several alternative communication paths are available, such as the previously mentioned modem, a parallel printer port, a conventional serial port, a cradle assembly connected to the host computer, and various wireless short distance techniques such as radio frequency or infrared transmission. The computer can readily communicate with other sources, particularly to a host desktop computer, to allow automated synchronization of information between the host and the handheld system. Preferably the remote synchronization is performed at several user selectable levels. When the handheld computer is in a cradle and actively connected to the host computer, automatic capture of updated data in the host computer is performed. Several synchronization techniques are utilized to keep track of different types of files. In addition, while communication is established the handheld computer can enter a remote control mode, allowing the user access to files and applications not included in the handheld computer.

Abstract: A handheld computer which contains an LCD display having a digitizing surface to allow pen input. Internal storage takes several forms, such as a large flash ROM area, battery-backed up RAM and an optional hard disk drive. Several alternative communication paths are available, such as the previously mentioned modem, a parallel printer port, a conventional serial port, a cradle assembly connected to the host computer, and various wireless short distance techniques such as radio frequency or infrared transmission. The computer can readily communicate with other sources, particularly to a host desktop computer, to allow automated synchronization of information between the host and the handheld system. Preferably the remote synchronization is performed at several user selectable levels. When the handheld computer is in a cradle and actively connected to the host computer, automatic capture of updated data in the host computer is performed. Several synchronization techniques are utilized to keep track of different types of files. In addition, while communication is established the handheld computer can enter a remote control mode, allowing the user access to files and applications not included in the handheld computer.

Abstract: A portable phone has a controller with an associated storage for the storage of the setting for a plurality of functions which may be set individually by the user. The controller arranges the stored settings as groups which each define a phone mode selectable by the user. Each mode is associated with at least one control parameter. The controller is associated with at least one sensor for sensing said at least one control parameter, and it automatically selects the phone mode in response to the sensed control parameter.