Patent ID: 6246984
Filing Date: 2001-06-12
Classification: G06F,G08B

Abstract:
In a device comprising:(a) functionality means for executing a main function of the device,(b) help means ancillary to the functionality means for assisting the user in operation the functionality means, said help means including:(i) a plurality of non-speech-form help messages including messages relevant to the operation of the functionality means,(ii) message selection means,(iii) message reproducing means for converting any of said messages into speech form,(c) user interface means connected to the functionality means and the help means and responsive to a user command for obtaining help in speech form in connection with operation of an aspect of said functionality means for selecting from said plurality of messages a help message relevant to said aspect, said user interface means comprising control means for switching between said first and second velocities during reproduction of said selected help message;the improvement comprising:(d) means under user control for selectively causing the message reproducing means to render said selected help message at at least a first normal velocity or at a second faster velocity, said second velocity being faster than said first velocity to enable said user to quickly reach the part of said selected help message that may be of particular help in operating the functionality means.