Speech Recognition and Intelligent Processing: Improved Tactical Communications

Recent advances in computer recognition of human speech have made it possible to perform reliable recognition of the content (words) in continuous speech, independent of the speaker. Using these new speech recognition tools together with algorithms which allow interpretation of the spoken messages, it is possible to dramatically reduce the human effort required to process spoken information, while improving information flow. We propose to use our Naval systems and operations expertise to improve the input of voice communications into tactical decision aids and data bases. We will design and build a reliable, easy to use system that automatically recognizes and interprets voice communications and sends this information to automated systems, thus reducing required human effort, improving performance, and increasing the timeliness of information delivery. Goals include: A) Defining the desired functionality of the prototype system based on long-term system performance goals; B) Defining technical performance and reliability requirements, including fault tolerance issues; C) Defining tactical (human/machine) interfaces; D) Defining machine/machine data communication protocols, E) Implementing and testing a prototype with the desired speech processing capabilities and some machine/machine and human/machine interface capabilities, including voice input into the Navy's ACDS (Advanced Combat Direction System).