A Virtual Vocabulary Speech Recognizer

A system for the automatic recognition of human speech is described. A commercially available speech recognizer sees its recognition vocabulary increased through the use of virtual memory management techniques. Central to the design are issues concerning the nature of speech, its effectiveness as an isolated mode of communication with computers, and its role as a part of a multi-modal communication interface. A highly interactive information retrieval system serves as a sample application. This system is detailed, and features which make it an appropriate application for the speech system are identified. Sponsored in full by the Office of Naval Research, Contract No. N00014-80-K-0921 Thesis Supervisor: Andrew Lippman Title: Assistant Professor of Media Technology