CA2162931C - Personal communication using intelligent terminals - Google Patents
Personal communication using intelligent terminalsInfo
- Publication number
- CA2162931C CA2162931C CA002162931A CA2162931A CA2162931C CA 2162931 C CA2162931 C CA 2162931C CA 002162931 A CA002162931 A CA 002162931A CA 2162931 A CA2162931 A CA 2162931A CA 2162931 C CA2162931 C CA 2162931C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- terminal
- subscriber
- further characterized
- terminals
- intelligent
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q3/00—Selecting arrangements
- H04Q3/0016—Arrangements providing connection between exchanges
- H04Q3/0029—Provisions for intelligent networking
- H04Q3/005—Personal communication services, e.g. provisions for portability of subscriber numbers
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/247—Telephone sets including user guidance or feature selection means facilitating their use
- H04M1/2473—Telephone terminals interfacing a personal computer, e.g. using an API (Application Programming Interface)
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/26—Devices for calling a subscriber
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M3/00—Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
- H04M3/42—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
- H04M3/4228—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers in networks
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M3/00—Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
- H04M3/42—Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
- H04M3/42229—Personal communication services, i.e. services related to one subscriber independent of his terminal and/or location
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q2213/00—Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
- H04Q2213/13248—Multimedia
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q2213/00—Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
- H04Q2213/13513—UPT - personal as opposed to terminal mobility, inc. number portability
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q2213/00—Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
- H04Q2213/13527—Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems protocols - X.25, TCAP etc.
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q2213/00—Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
- H04Q2213/13547—Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems subscriber, e.g. profile, database, database access
Abstract
An intelligent terminal (which can be a telephone (101-2, 101-3), a facsimile machine (101-4), or similar device (101-1)) is arranged so that (a) it can store information indicating when (e.g., date and time) a particular subscriber last was present at the terminal, and (b) the stored information can be retrieved from the terminal remotely, preferably without completing a conventional call to the terminal. A central processor (114) contains, for each subscriber, a list of theintelligent terminals that have been pre-designated for use by that subscriber, and has the ability to query terminals on the list. In response to a call placed to the subscriber by dialing the subscriber's unique personal number, specific intelligent terminals on that subscriber's list are queried by the central processor to determine when the subscriber was last present at each terminal. The central processor then generates a control signal such that the call is then completed to the particular terminal that was most recently visited by the subscriber.
Description
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION USING INTELLIGENT TERMINALS
Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to personal communication, facilitated by s the use of intelligent terminals, in which a telephone call (which can be a facsimile call) placed to a personal telephone number assigned to a subscriber (rather than to a telephone line) is completed to that person (or a facsimile machine) at any of several locations where the subscriber is likely to be at the time the call is made.
Io Background of the Invention Personal communications as described in U.S. patent 4,313,035 issued to Jordan et al. on January 26, 1982, contemplates routing of a telephone call placed to a personal telephone number assigned to a subscriber to any of several locations where the subscriber is likely to be at the time the call is made.
Is This can be done by querying a database that contains information that indicates where (i.e., at what telephone number) the subscriber intends to be. The profile can be updated in accordance with a fixed schedule or rule, such that calls are sent to different destinations based on the time of day. The problem with this is that the subscriber may not always maintain the intended schedule.
2o Alternatively, a profile can be maintained by the subscriber having the personal telephone number, and the profile can be updated as required, by calls made to the database. However, this requires specific action by the subscriber, and the subscriber may forget to update the profile.
One solution was presented in U.S. Patent 5,243,645 issued to Bissell et 2s al. on September 7, 1993, in which the profile is updated automatically, based upon transactions, such as credit card purchases, made by the subscriber. This solution does not require explicit action by the subscriber, but nevertheless requires transmission of updating information to the database on a periodic basis, before a call is ever made to the subscriber. Various call forwarding 3o schemes exist which let a subscriber program station equipment with a schedule of destinations where the subscriber may be reached. Such station equipment, and the procedure used to program the equipment, are often unduly complicated and hard to understand.
Summary of the Invention In accordance with the present invention, an intelligent terminal (which can be a telephone, a facsimile machine, or similar device) is arranged so that (a) it can store information indicating when (e.g., date and time) a particular s subscriber last was present at the terminal, and (b) the stored information can be retrieved from the terminal remotely, preferably without completing a conventional call to the terminal. A central processor contains, for each subscriber, a list of the intelligent terminals that have been pre-designated for use by that subscriber, and has the ability to query all terminals on the list.
to In response to a call placed to the subscriber by dialing the subscriber's unique personal number (which co~ild be a "500" number), specific intelligent terminals on that subscriber's list are queried by the central processor to determine when the subscriber was last present at each terminal. The central processor then controls routing of the call to the particular terminal that Was most Is recently visited by the subscriber.
In one embodiment of the invention, the central processor is a Service Control Point (SCP) in the Public Switched Telecommunications Network (PSTN). Intelligent terminals contemplated by the present invention can be wired or Wireless, analog or digital, and can use a variety of signaling techniques 2o to allow a query and response without completion of a conventional call.
For example, cellular telephones conforming to the GSM standard can already transmit and receive data messages from base stations, and analog telephones can be suitably modified to use the Analog Display Services Interface (ADSI) already proposed by Bellcore to facilitate voice and data communications with a 2s terminal. See Bellcore Technical Reference TR-NWT-000030, Issue 2, October, 1992 and particularly section 2.3.2. ISDN phones are also particularly well suited for use in connection with this invention, because they can use the X.25 data communications feature on the D channel. See Networking Standards by William Stallings, January, 1993, ISBN 0-201-56357-6.
~o The present invention allows a subscriber to "login" on any predetermined intelligent terminal and automatically receive calls at that terminal until a login thereafter occurs at some other intelligent terminal. Since the login function can only be done at a set of predetermined terminals, security problems are minimal.
Each intelligent terminal can be arranged to store information for several 3s subscribers, who are differentiated by their login code. For example, if up to 10 subscribers may use a given intelligent terminal in conjunction with the present invention, the login code used by each subscriber can be as simple as a single digit. However, a more reliable login would occur if each person used 2 digits (e.g., #X)) where # is a special, non-numeric key and X is a digit from 0 to 9.
Note here that "login dialing" that uses only a single digit is differentiated from s "ordinary dialing" by the fact that "login dialing" is done while the phone is on-hook. If additional differentiation is desired, the login code could, as indicated above, include a special character (e.g. the "#" character) as a prefix, or the entry of the login code could be preceded by the actuation of a "login key" on the intelligent terminal.
io In one application of the present invention, a subscriber has a unique personal number in the form 500-NNX-XXXX and a login code #1. Upon arrival at the office, the subscriber dials #1 on the intelligent terminal used for business calls, whip driving home the subscriber dials #1 on a cellular phone, and upon reaching home, the subscriber dials #1 on an intelligent terminal designed for is residential use. In all cases, any person dialing the subscriber's personal number would be automatically connected to the terminal on which the #1 was last dialed by the subscriber.
Brief Description of the Drawings 2o The present invention will be more fully appreciated by consideration of the following detailed description which should be read in light of the accompanying drawing in which:
Fig. 1 is a block diagram of the overall network arrangement by which a group of intelligent terminals are interconnected via the local telephone network 2s to an SCP which performs the search processor function in order to accomplish the objectives of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a block diagram of one of the intelligent terminals 101 of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a flow chart of the process by which a call is completed to a subscriber using the arrangement of Fig. 1 and terminals of the type shown in ~o Fig.2;
Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing how an intelligent terminal is used by a subscriber to login at that terminal;
Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing how an intelligent terminal is queried by SCP 114 of Fig. 1;
~s Fig. 6 illustrates the typical format of records stored in SCP 114 of Fig.
for each subscriber; and 21629.31 Fig. 7 illustrates the typical format of records stored in login memory 208 in the intelligent terminals 101 shown in Fig. 2.
Detailed Description s Referring first to Fig. 1, there is shown a block diagram of the overall network arrangement by which a group of intelligent terminals are interconnected with a Service Control Point (SCP) which performs the search processor function in order to accomplish the objectives of the present invention. This figure shows an intelligent network in which local central office switches 112-1 and 112-2, to which are typically part of the public switched telephone network (PSTN), are interconnected with each other and with SCP 114 by signaling links which carry messages using the well known Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol. SCP 114 is basically a database which responds to queries from switches 112-1 and 112-2, and provides routing information used by the switches to complete calls. SCP
is 114 can also be linked to switches 112-1 and 112-2 by a standard X.25 packet data network 126.
A group of intelligent terminals 101-1 to 101-4 are connected to respective local central office switches 112-1 or 112-2, illustratively by (a) ISDN Basic Rate Interface (BRI) connections 111-1 and 111-2 to workstation 101-1 and terminal 20 101-2, respectively, or (b) by conventional local loop connections 111-3 and 111-4 to telephone 101-3 and facsimile machine 101-4, respectively. Other types of connections and other types of terminals may also be used, as long as signaling between switches 112 and terminals 101 can be effected with the terminals in an on-hook state, as described more fully below. For the purposes of describing 2s operation of the system of Fig. 1, a calling telephone 125 is also shown connected to switch 112-1 via a conventional local loop connection.
Fig. 2 is a block diagram of some of the components in one of the intelligent terminals 101 of Fig. 1. As indicated above, these terminals can be wired or wireless telephones, facsimile machines, workstations, or other terminal ~o devices that are capable of receiving incoming calls and messages. The components not shown in Fig. 2 are specific to the type of terminal involved.
Thus, a facsimile machine would include apparatus for scanning documents, for printing output, and for performing other document related functionality; a cellular telephone would have a mobile identification number memory, radio transmitter 3s and receiver sections, and so on.
In Fig. 2, the conventional components are similar to those shown in Fig. 2 of U.S. Patent No. 5,509,062 issued April 16, 1996 to Ralph Carlsen, entitled "Intelligent Terminal Based Selective Call Forwarding". Specifically, intelligent terminal includes a telephone line circuit 205, a microphone 202, a speaker 203, a dial pad and associated touch tone generator 204, and feature control buttons 209, one of which may be a "login" button discussed below. Terminal 101 also includes a microprocessor 206 arranged to operate under the control of program instructions stored in a program memory 207, which thereby controls the operation of those various components and pertorms the process described below in connection with Fig. 4.
In accordance with the present invention, each terminal includes, in additional to the conventional components, a display 220, which may be an LCD display, and a login memory 208 that can store records of the type shown in Fig. 7 on a long term basis, and which may be any type of random access memory in which can be stored information indicating when a particular subscriber last was present at the terminal.
The terminal is arranged so that the stored information in memory 208 can be retrieved remotely, preferably without completing a conventional call to the terminal.
Such retrieval may be accomplished by sending a data message to the terminal, requesting the terminal to generate a return message indicating, for example, the date and time stored in the login memory 208 in association with a login code assigned to a particular subscriber. The login code is described more fully below, in conjunction with Fig. 4.
Microprocessor 206 includes an internal clock, so that once the time and date are correctly set, the current date and time can be stored in login memory 208 in association with other information.
Communications to and from the terminals 101 may be accomplished using data messages transmitted over network 126 using the X.25 protocol. Alternatively, the query and retrieval process could be implemented over the conventional telephone signaling network, using SS7 Transaction Capability Applications Part (TCAP) messages, as long a switches 112 are capable of this signaling.
If terminals 101 are cellular phones, two way messaging service is preferably implemented between X.25 network 126 and the phone, for example, using the Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) service currently being introduced into AMPS service. This arrangement is preferred, because intelligent cellular terminals could use CDPD for other data services. The GSM standard used in Europe, Australia and other countries includes both a short messaging service (160 characters), and data communications, either of which can also be used.
If terminals 101 are workstations, they can be implemented by a personal computer with telephone line circuit hardware and software. The telephone s service can be equivalent to either an analog phone or an ISDN phone.
If terminals 101 are analog phones, the technology currently used to send the number of the calling party to a ringing analog phone could be adapted to provide for a query and response capability contemplated by the present invention. This technology has already been extended by Bellcore to to communicate with intelligent terminals, in connection with what is called the Analog Display Services Interface (ADSI). While that interface is currently envisioned for alternate voice and data in an active call mode, it could be modified to signal the phone (as in the current calling party identification) but would not ring the phone. If terminals 101 are ISDN phones connected to the is local central office on BRI facilities, the D channel would be used to send login data to SCP 114 in response to a query from that SCP. Depending on the capabilities of the local central office, this can be done as either direct X.25 communications between SCP 114 and terminal 101, or as ISDN messages. If ISDN messages are implemented, they would be sent in the Q.931 format 2o between terminal 101 and the local central office. The local central office would convert the Q.931 messages into TCAP messages for transmission over the SS7 network to the SCP.
Referring now to Fig. 3, there is shown a flow chart of the process by which a call is initiated from telephone 125 and completed to a subscriber using 2s the arrangement of Fig. 1 and terminals of the type shown in Fig. 2. First, in step 302, the calling party dials the personal number of a subscriber having the "intelligent forwarding" service contemplated by the present invention. The call is handled by the local central office switch serving the originating telephone, in this case switch 112-1, and is recognized, in step 304, as a call requiring "intelligent ~o network" treatment. This recognition (called a "trigger point") may be based upon the fact that the personal number has a format, such as 500-NNX-XXXX, that has the "500" special service designator in place of a conventional NPA.
Alternatively, the local central office switch may be arranged with trigger points to query a database to determine the treatment to be afforded to all calls, based 3s upon other portions of, or the entire dialed number.
In step 305, switch 112-1 sends a SS7 TCAP query message to SCP 114 requesting routing information for the call. This request may also be sent as an X.25 data message via X.25 network 126, depending upon the specific implementation of the invention.
s In step 306, the query message is received by SCP 114 and recognized as a query relating to "intelligent forwarding" as provided by the present invention. This is accomplished by a look-up or data retrieval operation in SCP
114, which associates the subscriber's dialed number with the service (e.g.
intelligent forwarding) that is provided in connection with calls placed to that to number. SCP 114 retrieves the record, described further below, in connection with Fig. 6, associated with the subscriber, in order to determine the identity of the intelligent terminals that are to be queried for this subscriber in order to complete this call.
In steps 308 and 309, SCP 114 polls or queries the intelligent terminals is identified in step 306 and receives responding messages indicating the time (and day) at which the subscriber last logged in to each of the intelligent terminals.
The type of messages sent in connection with the queries and responses depend upon the type of terminals involved. As stated previously, for GSM
cellular telephones, the messages may be in the short message service format.
2o For conventional telephones and facsimile machines, the messages may be consistent with the ADSI protocol. For ISDN terminals (telephones or personal computers) signaling can be either SS7 TCAP or X.25. The method used is specified in the database described in connection with Fig. 6. In all cases, the query message will identify both the end point terminal and the SCP. The 2s response message returned to the SCP will identify the terminal from which it was sent.
When all of the responses have been received, SCP 114 determines, in step 310, which of the queried terminals has the most recent login. In this step, provisions may be made for resolving the situation where one or more terminals 3o do not respond within a predetermined time after the transmission of a query.
Information identifying the terminal with the most recent login is transmitted to local central office switch 112-1 in step 312, using the same type of message communication used in step 305. When the information is received in switch 112-1, it is used in step 314 to complete the call. In this way, the call is 3s intelligently forwarded to the particular one of the intelligent terminals most recently "visited" by the subscriber.
Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing how an intelligent terminal is used by a subscriber to login at that terminal. First, in step 402, a subscriber actuates one of the feature control buttons 209, illustratively a button marked "login" if the phone is so equipped. Otherwise, the subscriber leaves the phone on hook and s proceeds to dial a login code as described below. The actuation of a login button is detected by microprocessor 206, and in response thereto, microprocessor 206 is prepared to receive the personal login code entered by the subscriber in step 404. Illustratively, the login code is entered as a series of keystrokes using the keys on dial pad 204. The login code associated with each to subscriber can be a sequence #X, where X is a digit 0 to 9.
In step 406, the intelligent terminal acknowledges the entry of a login code by causing a suitable message to be displayed on display 220. If there is an error in processing, this condition may also be indicated by a message on display 220. At the same time or shortly thereafter, the login code and the date Is and time that the login occurred are stored in login memory 208. The format of records in login memory is described below, in connection with Fig. 7.
Referring next to Fig. 5, there is shown a flow chart of the process by which an intelligent terminal is queried by SCP 114 of Fig. 1. First, in step 502, a terminal receives a data message from SCP 114 commanding the terminal to 2o search its login memory for the date and time that is stored in association with a particular login code, and to return information indicating that date and time to the SCP. As indicated previously, this data message may be transmitted to a terminal in a number of formats, depending upon the specific type of terminal involved. Illustratively, the query will be via an X.25 message transmitted using 2s X.25 network 126.
In step 504, the terminal receiving the query determines if there is information stored in login memory 208 corresponding to the login code that accompanied the query. If a YES result occurs, the intelligent terminal sends a data message to SCP 114 that includes the login code, and the day and time 3o that is associated with that login code, in step 508, and the process terminates in step 512. On the other hand, if a NO result occurs in step 506, the intelligent terminal sends a data message to SCP 114, in step 510, indicating the login code was not found, and again, the process terminates in step 512.
Fig. 6 illustrates the typical format of records stored in SCP 114 of Fig. 1 3s for each subscriber. Each subscriber has a personal telephone number, typically a number in the 500-NNX-XXXX format described above. This number is stored 216293) in field 601. For each subscriber, fields 602-605 contain information associated with several intelligent terminals at which the subscriber may login. Field contains the login code used by this subscriber. For each terminal, field 603 contains the address to which messages destined for that terminal may be s addressed. Field 604 indicates the communications link used for this terminal.
In the case of messages using the X.25 protocol, the address (which is different from the telephone number) is shown in field 605. Normally, the information in field 603 would be a conventional telephone number in the form NPA-NXX-XXXX, where NPA is an area code, NXX is an exchange (where N is a digit 2-9), io and XXXX are any digits. In the example of Fig. 6, the subscriber uses the same login code of #1 at all of the terminals. This arrangement is preferred, so that the login code is easy to remember and use. The login code is shown as 2 digits, with the first digit fixed as #. This gives the capability of up to 10 people logging in on the same intelligent terminal. If greater capacity is required, the first digit is can be made variable to include all digits 0-9 plus # and * which would increase the number of people that can login to the same terminal to 120. Using 3 digit codes of the form XXX, where X is any digit 0-9, would permit up to 1000 people to login on the same terminal.
Fig. 7 illustrates the typical format of records stored in login memory 208 2o in the intelligent terminals 101 shown in Fig. 2. Field 701 contains the login code for each subscriber that may receive calls at that terminal. For each login code, there is an associated date (i.e., day of year) set forth in field 702, and a time (e.g., in military time from 00:00 to 24:00) in field 703 representing the date and time that the particular subscriber last logged in to that terminal.
2s A series of options can be implemented with the present invention. For example, if none of the login dates are current, the calls can be completed to a default number where there might be an answering machine, a voice mailbox, a pager, or an announcement can be played indicating that the "called party cannot be located".
3o The present invention (unlike the conventional method of call forwarding) avoids the "trombone routing" that can happen when the call goes to a fixed point from which call forwarding takes place. This invention finds the final location before any routing is started. If "trombone routing" can be tolerated, the present invention may be practiced using a personal computer (PC) or a private ~s branch exchange (PBX) to perform the functions of SCP 114 and originating switch 112-1 that were previously described above. In such an embodiment, ~. 1° 21 ~~9~~
the PC or the PBX would include processing and storage elements to perform the functions of the central processor, and a switching element to perform the call handling functions performed by the originating switch. In this embodiment, a call to a subscriber would initially be completed to the PC or the PBX. The PC
s or PBX would then query or poll the intelligent terminals associated with the called subscriber to ascertain the login day and time that the called subscriber last visited each such terminal, and complete the call to the selected terminal that has the most recent login.
The login method used by the present invention could also be changed to Io take advantage of other user interfaces. For example, a phone could have a card swipe slot like AT&T coinless public phones, for reading information encoded on a credit card that would correspond to the login code assigned to a subscriber. Alternatively, a bar code or badge reader could be installed in the intelligent terminal, or voice recognition could be built into the intelligent terminal.
1~ Any of these techniques would result in populating the record in the intelligent terminal (as shown in Fig. 7) in the same way as if the subscriber dialed his login code.
Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to personal communication, facilitated by s the use of intelligent terminals, in which a telephone call (which can be a facsimile call) placed to a personal telephone number assigned to a subscriber (rather than to a telephone line) is completed to that person (or a facsimile machine) at any of several locations where the subscriber is likely to be at the time the call is made.
Io Background of the Invention Personal communications as described in U.S. patent 4,313,035 issued to Jordan et al. on January 26, 1982, contemplates routing of a telephone call placed to a personal telephone number assigned to a subscriber to any of several locations where the subscriber is likely to be at the time the call is made.
Is This can be done by querying a database that contains information that indicates where (i.e., at what telephone number) the subscriber intends to be. The profile can be updated in accordance with a fixed schedule or rule, such that calls are sent to different destinations based on the time of day. The problem with this is that the subscriber may not always maintain the intended schedule.
2o Alternatively, a profile can be maintained by the subscriber having the personal telephone number, and the profile can be updated as required, by calls made to the database. However, this requires specific action by the subscriber, and the subscriber may forget to update the profile.
One solution was presented in U.S. Patent 5,243,645 issued to Bissell et 2s al. on September 7, 1993, in which the profile is updated automatically, based upon transactions, such as credit card purchases, made by the subscriber. This solution does not require explicit action by the subscriber, but nevertheless requires transmission of updating information to the database on a periodic basis, before a call is ever made to the subscriber. Various call forwarding 3o schemes exist which let a subscriber program station equipment with a schedule of destinations where the subscriber may be reached. Such station equipment, and the procedure used to program the equipment, are often unduly complicated and hard to understand.
Summary of the Invention In accordance with the present invention, an intelligent terminal (which can be a telephone, a facsimile machine, or similar device) is arranged so that (a) it can store information indicating when (e.g., date and time) a particular s subscriber last was present at the terminal, and (b) the stored information can be retrieved from the terminal remotely, preferably without completing a conventional call to the terminal. A central processor contains, for each subscriber, a list of the intelligent terminals that have been pre-designated for use by that subscriber, and has the ability to query all terminals on the list.
to In response to a call placed to the subscriber by dialing the subscriber's unique personal number (which co~ild be a "500" number), specific intelligent terminals on that subscriber's list are queried by the central processor to determine when the subscriber was last present at each terminal. The central processor then controls routing of the call to the particular terminal that Was most Is recently visited by the subscriber.
In one embodiment of the invention, the central processor is a Service Control Point (SCP) in the Public Switched Telecommunications Network (PSTN). Intelligent terminals contemplated by the present invention can be wired or Wireless, analog or digital, and can use a variety of signaling techniques 2o to allow a query and response without completion of a conventional call.
For example, cellular telephones conforming to the GSM standard can already transmit and receive data messages from base stations, and analog telephones can be suitably modified to use the Analog Display Services Interface (ADSI) already proposed by Bellcore to facilitate voice and data communications with a 2s terminal. See Bellcore Technical Reference TR-NWT-000030, Issue 2, October, 1992 and particularly section 2.3.2. ISDN phones are also particularly well suited for use in connection with this invention, because they can use the X.25 data communications feature on the D channel. See Networking Standards by William Stallings, January, 1993, ISBN 0-201-56357-6.
~o The present invention allows a subscriber to "login" on any predetermined intelligent terminal and automatically receive calls at that terminal until a login thereafter occurs at some other intelligent terminal. Since the login function can only be done at a set of predetermined terminals, security problems are minimal.
Each intelligent terminal can be arranged to store information for several 3s subscribers, who are differentiated by their login code. For example, if up to 10 subscribers may use a given intelligent terminal in conjunction with the present invention, the login code used by each subscriber can be as simple as a single digit. However, a more reliable login would occur if each person used 2 digits (e.g., #X)) where # is a special, non-numeric key and X is a digit from 0 to 9.
Note here that "login dialing" that uses only a single digit is differentiated from s "ordinary dialing" by the fact that "login dialing" is done while the phone is on-hook. If additional differentiation is desired, the login code could, as indicated above, include a special character (e.g. the "#" character) as a prefix, or the entry of the login code could be preceded by the actuation of a "login key" on the intelligent terminal.
io In one application of the present invention, a subscriber has a unique personal number in the form 500-NNX-XXXX and a login code #1. Upon arrival at the office, the subscriber dials #1 on the intelligent terminal used for business calls, whip driving home the subscriber dials #1 on a cellular phone, and upon reaching home, the subscriber dials #1 on an intelligent terminal designed for is residential use. In all cases, any person dialing the subscriber's personal number would be automatically connected to the terminal on which the #1 was last dialed by the subscriber.
Brief Description of the Drawings 2o The present invention will be more fully appreciated by consideration of the following detailed description which should be read in light of the accompanying drawing in which:
Fig. 1 is a block diagram of the overall network arrangement by which a group of intelligent terminals are interconnected via the local telephone network 2s to an SCP which performs the search processor function in order to accomplish the objectives of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a block diagram of one of the intelligent terminals 101 of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a flow chart of the process by which a call is completed to a subscriber using the arrangement of Fig. 1 and terminals of the type shown in ~o Fig.2;
Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing how an intelligent terminal is used by a subscriber to login at that terminal;
Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing how an intelligent terminal is queried by SCP 114 of Fig. 1;
~s Fig. 6 illustrates the typical format of records stored in SCP 114 of Fig.
for each subscriber; and 21629.31 Fig. 7 illustrates the typical format of records stored in login memory 208 in the intelligent terminals 101 shown in Fig. 2.
Detailed Description s Referring first to Fig. 1, there is shown a block diagram of the overall network arrangement by which a group of intelligent terminals are interconnected with a Service Control Point (SCP) which performs the search processor function in order to accomplish the objectives of the present invention. This figure shows an intelligent network in which local central office switches 112-1 and 112-2, to which are typically part of the public switched telephone network (PSTN), are interconnected with each other and with SCP 114 by signaling links which carry messages using the well known Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol. SCP 114 is basically a database which responds to queries from switches 112-1 and 112-2, and provides routing information used by the switches to complete calls. SCP
is 114 can also be linked to switches 112-1 and 112-2 by a standard X.25 packet data network 126.
A group of intelligent terminals 101-1 to 101-4 are connected to respective local central office switches 112-1 or 112-2, illustratively by (a) ISDN Basic Rate Interface (BRI) connections 111-1 and 111-2 to workstation 101-1 and terminal 20 101-2, respectively, or (b) by conventional local loop connections 111-3 and 111-4 to telephone 101-3 and facsimile machine 101-4, respectively. Other types of connections and other types of terminals may also be used, as long as signaling between switches 112 and terminals 101 can be effected with the terminals in an on-hook state, as described more fully below. For the purposes of describing 2s operation of the system of Fig. 1, a calling telephone 125 is also shown connected to switch 112-1 via a conventional local loop connection.
Fig. 2 is a block diagram of some of the components in one of the intelligent terminals 101 of Fig. 1. As indicated above, these terminals can be wired or wireless telephones, facsimile machines, workstations, or other terminal ~o devices that are capable of receiving incoming calls and messages. The components not shown in Fig. 2 are specific to the type of terminal involved.
Thus, a facsimile machine would include apparatus for scanning documents, for printing output, and for performing other document related functionality; a cellular telephone would have a mobile identification number memory, radio transmitter 3s and receiver sections, and so on.
In Fig. 2, the conventional components are similar to those shown in Fig. 2 of U.S. Patent No. 5,509,062 issued April 16, 1996 to Ralph Carlsen, entitled "Intelligent Terminal Based Selective Call Forwarding". Specifically, intelligent terminal includes a telephone line circuit 205, a microphone 202, a speaker 203, a dial pad and associated touch tone generator 204, and feature control buttons 209, one of which may be a "login" button discussed below. Terminal 101 also includes a microprocessor 206 arranged to operate under the control of program instructions stored in a program memory 207, which thereby controls the operation of those various components and pertorms the process described below in connection with Fig. 4.
In accordance with the present invention, each terminal includes, in additional to the conventional components, a display 220, which may be an LCD display, and a login memory 208 that can store records of the type shown in Fig. 7 on a long term basis, and which may be any type of random access memory in which can be stored information indicating when a particular subscriber last was present at the terminal.
The terminal is arranged so that the stored information in memory 208 can be retrieved remotely, preferably without completing a conventional call to the terminal.
Such retrieval may be accomplished by sending a data message to the terminal, requesting the terminal to generate a return message indicating, for example, the date and time stored in the login memory 208 in association with a login code assigned to a particular subscriber. The login code is described more fully below, in conjunction with Fig. 4.
Microprocessor 206 includes an internal clock, so that once the time and date are correctly set, the current date and time can be stored in login memory 208 in association with other information.
Communications to and from the terminals 101 may be accomplished using data messages transmitted over network 126 using the X.25 protocol. Alternatively, the query and retrieval process could be implemented over the conventional telephone signaling network, using SS7 Transaction Capability Applications Part (TCAP) messages, as long a switches 112 are capable of this signaling.
If terminals 101 are cellular phones, two way messaging service is preferably implemented between X.25 network 126 and the phone, for example, using the Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) service currently being introduced into AMPS service. This arrangement is preferred, because intelligent cellular terminals could use CDPD for other data services. The GSM standard used in Europe, Australia and other countries includes both a short messaging service (160 characters), and data communications, either of which can also be used.
If terminals 101 are workstations, they can be implemented by a personal computer with telephone line circuit hardware and software. The telephone s service can be equivalent to either an analog phone or an ISDN phone.
If terminals 101 are analog phones, the technology currently used to send the number of the calling party to a ringing analog phone could be adapted to provide for a query and response capability contemplated by the present invention. This technology has already been extended by Bellcore to to communicate with intelligent terminals, in connection with what is called the Analog Display Services Interface (ADSI). While that interface is currently envisioned for alternate voice and data in an active call mode, it could be modified to signal the phone (as in the current calling party identification) but would not ring the phone. If terminals 101 are ISDN phones connected to the is local central office on BRI facilities, the D channel would be used to send login data to SCP 114 in response to a query from that SCP. Depending on the capabilities of the local central office, this can be done as either direct X.25 communications between SCP 114 and terminal 101, or as ISDN messages. If ISDN messages are implemented, they would be sent in the Q.931 format 2o between terminal 101 and the local central office. The local central office would convert the Q.931 messages into TCAP messages for transmission over the SS7 network to the SCP.
Referring now to Fig. 3, there is shown a flow chart of the process by which a call is initiated from telephone 125 and completed to a subscriber using 2s the arrangement of Fig. 1 and terminals of the type shown in Fig. 2. First, in step 302, the calling party dials the personal number of a subscriber having the "intelligent forwarding" service contemplated by the present invention. The call is handled by the local central office switch serving the originating telephone, in this case switch 112-1, and is recognized, in step 304, as a call requiring "intelligent ~o network" treatment. This recognition (called a "trigger point") may be based upon the fact that the personal number has a format, such as 500-NNX-XXXX, that has the "500" special service designator in place of a conventional NPA.
Alternatively, the local central office switch may be arranged with trigger points to query a database to determine the treatment to be afforded to all calls, based 3s upon other portions of, or the entire dialed number.
In step 305, switch 112-1 sends a SS7 TCAP query message to SCP 114 requesting routing information for the call. This request may also be sent as an X.25 data message via X.25 network 126, depending upon the specific implementation of the invention.
s In step 306, the query message is received by SCP 114 and recognized as a query relating to "intelligent forwarding" as provided by the present invention. This is accomplished by a look-up or data retrieval operation in SCP
114, which associates the subscriber's dialed number with the service (e.g.
intelligent forwarding) that is provided in connection with calls placed to that to number. SCP 114 retrieves the record, described further below, in connection with Fig. 6, associated with the subscriber, in order to determine the identity of the intelligent terminals that are to be queried for this subscriber in order to complete this call.
In steps 308 and 309, SCP 114 polls or queries the intelligent terminals is identified in step 306 and receives responding messages indicating the time (and day) at which the subscriber last logged in to each of the intelligent terminals.
The type of messages sent in connection with the queries and responses depend upon the type of terminals involved. As stated previously, for GSM
cellular telephones, the messages may be in the short message service format.
2o For conventional telephones and facsimile machines, the messages may be consistent with the ADSI protocol. For ISDN terminals (telephones or personal computers) signaling can be either SS7 TCAP or X.25. The method used is specified in the database described in connection with Fig. 6. In all cases, the query message will identify both the end point terminal and the SCP. The 2s response message returned to the SCP will identify the terminal from which it was sent.
When all of the responses have been received, SCP 114 determines, in step 310, which of the queried terminals has the most recent login. In this step, provisions may be made for resolving the situation where one or more terminals 3o do not respond within a predetermined time after the transmission of a query.
Information identifying the terminal with the most recent login is transmitted to local central office switch 112-1 in step 312, using the same type of message communication used in step 305. When the information is received in switch 112-1, it is used in step 314 to complete the call. In this way, the call is 3s intelligently forwarded to the particular one of the intelligent terminals most recently "visited" by the subscriber.
Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing how an intelligent terminal is used by a subscriber to login at that terminal. First, in step 402, a subscriber actuates one of the feature control buttons 209, illustratively a button marked "login" if the phone is so equipped. Otherwise, the subscriber leaves the phone on hook and s proceeds to dial a login code as described below. The actuation of a login button is detected by microprocessor 206, and in response thereto, microprocessor 206 is prepared to receive the personal login code entered by the subscriber in step 404. Illustratively, the login code is entered as a series of keystrokes using the keys on dial pad 204. The login code associated with each to subscriber can be a sequence #X, where X is a digit 0 to 9.
In step 406, the intelligent terminal acknowledges the entry of a login code by causing a suitable message to be displayed on display 220. If there is an error in processing, this condition may also be indicated by a message on display 220. At the same time or shortly thereafter, the login code and the date Is and time that the login occurred are stored in login memory 208. The format of records in login memory is described below, in connection with Fig. 7.
Referring next to Fig. 5, there is shown a flow chart of the process by which an intelligent terminal is queried by SCP 114 of Fig. 1. First, in step 502, a terminal receives a data message from SCP 114 commanding the terminal to 2o search its login memory for the date and time that is stored in association with a particular login code, and to return information indicating that date and time to the SCP. As indicated previously, this data message may be transmitted to a terminal in a number of formats, depending upon the specific type of terminal involved. Illustratively, the query will be via an X.25 message transmitted using 2s X.25 network 126.
In step 504, the terminal receiving the query determines if there is information stored in login memory 208 corresponding to the login code that accompanied the query. If a YES result occurs, the intelligent terminal sends a data message to SCP 114 that includes the login code, and the day and time 3o that is associated with that login code, in step 508, and the process terminates in step 512. On the other hand, if a NO result occurs in step 506, the intelligent terminal sends a data message to SCP 114, in step 510, indicating the login code was not found, and again, the process terminates in step 512.
Fig. 6 illustrates the typical format of records stored in SCP 114 of Fig. 1 3s for each subscriber. Each subscriber has a personal telephone number, typically a number in the 500-NNX-XXXX format described above. This number is stored 216293) in field 601. For each subscriber, fields 602-605 contain information associated with several intelligent terminals at which the subscriber may login. Field contains the login code used by this subscriber. For each terminal, field 603 contains the address to which messages destined for that terminal may be s addressed. Field 604 indicates the communications link used for this terminal.
In the case of messages using the X.25 protocol, the address (which is different from the telephone number) is shown in field 605. Normally, the information in field 603 would be a conventional telephone number in the form NPA-NXX-XXXX, where NPA is an area code, NXX is an exchange (where N is a digit 2-9), io and XXXX are any digits. In the example of Fig. 6, the subscriber uses the same login code of #1 at all of the terminals. This arrangement is preferred, so that the login code is easy to remember and use. The login code is shown as 2 digits, with the first digit fixed as #. This gives the capability of up to 10 people logging in on the same intelligent terminal. If greater capacity is required, the first digit is can be made variable to include all digits 0-9 plus # and * which would increase the number of people that can login to the same terminal to 120. Using 3 digit codes of the form XXX, where X is any digit 0-9, would permit up to 1000 people to login on the same terminal.
Fig. 7 illustrates the typical format of records stored in login memory 208 2o in the intelligent terminals 101 shown in Fig. 2. Field 701 contains the login code for each subscriber that may receive calls at that terminal. For each login code, there is an associated date (i.e., day of year) set forth in field 702, and a time (e.g., in military time from 00:00 to 24:00) in field 703 representing the date and time that the particular subscriber last logged in to that terminal.
2s A series of options can be implemented with the present invention. For example, if none of the login dates are current, the calls can be completed to a default number where there might be an answering machine, a voice mailbox, a pager, or an announcement can be played indicating that the "called party cannot be located".
3o The present invention (unlike the conventional method of call forwarding) avoids the "trombone routing" that can happen when the call goes to a fixed point from which call forwarding takes place. This invention finds the final location before any routing is started. If "trombone routing" can be tolerated, the present invention may be practiced using a personal computer (PC) or a private ~s branch exchange (PBX) to perform the functions of SCP 114 and originating switch 112-1 that were previously described above. In such an embodiment, ~. 1° 21 ~~9~~
the PC or the PBX would include processing and storage elements to perform the functions of the central processor, and a switching element to perform the call handling functions performed by the originating switch. In this embodiment, a call to a subscriber would initially be completed to the PC or the PBX. The PC
s or PBX would then query or poll the intelligent terminals associated with the called subscriber to ascertain the login day and time that the called subscriber last visited each such terminal, and complete the call to the selected terminal that has the most recent login.
The login method used by the present invention could also be changed to Io take advantage of other user interfaces. For example, a phone could have a card swipe slot like AT&T coinless public phones, for reading information encoded on a credit card that would correspond to the login code assigned to a subscriber. Alternatively, a bar code or badge reader could be installed in the intelligent terminal, or voice recognition could be built into the intelligent terminal.
1~ Any of these techniques would result in populating the record in the intelligent terminal (as shown in Fig. 7) in the same way as if the subscriber dialed his login code.
Claims (25)
1. A system for completing telephone calls placed to a selected one or a plurality of subscribers, each of the subscribers having a personal telephone number, said system including a plurality of intelligent terminals, each of said intelligent terminals being associated with one of said plurality of subscribers and being arranged (a) to store information indicating when it was last visited by its associated subscriber and (b) to permit remote retrieval of said stored information, without completing a conventional call to the terminal, a central processor containing, for each respective subscriber, a corresponding list of associated intelligent terminals that have been pre-designated for use by that subscriber, said central processor arranged to query said pre-designated intelligent terminals on a selected subscriber's list in order to determine when the selected subscriber was last present at each associated terminal, and calling means responsive to a call placed to the selected subscriber by dialing the selected subscriber's unique personal number for causing said central processor to query said pre-designated intelligent terminals and for completing the call to the particular terminal that was determined to be the terminal most recently visited by the subscriber.
2. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that the intelligent terminal is a telephone, a facsimile machine, a personal computer or a cellular telephone.
3. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said intelligent terminal includes means for receiving and transmitting signals while in an on-hook condition, using the X.25 protocol.
4. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said intelligent terminals are queried and respond without completion of a conventional call.
5. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said central processor is a Service Control Point (SCP) in the public switched telephone network.
6. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said call handling means is a switch in the public switched telecommunications network.
7. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said central processor includes processing and storage elements in a personal computer and said call handling means includes a switching element in said personal computer.
8. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said central processor includes processing and storage elements in a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) and said call handling means includes a switching element in said PBX.
9. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that each of said intelligent terminals includes a login memory, and wherein each of said terminals is arranged to store information indicating the current date and time when a login code is entered in said terminal while in the on-hook state.
10. The invention defined in claim 9, further characterized in that said login memory is arranged to store login information indicating when a plurality of subscribers were last at said terminal.
11. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that stored information is retrieved from at least one of said terminals using an Analog Display Services Interface (ADSI) protocol.
12. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that at least one of said terminals is an ISDN terminal, and wherein stored information is retrieved from said terminal using the ISDN D channel.
13. The invention defined in claim 1, further characterized in that said personal telephone number is a 500 number.
14. A method for completing telephone calls placed to a selected one of a plurality of subscribers, each of the subscribers having a personal telephone number, said method including the steps of storing information indicating when each of a plurality of intelligent terminals associated with a selected subscriber was last visited, storing in a central processor, for each respective subscriber, a corresponding list of associated intelligent terminals that have been pre-designated for use by that subscriber, responsive to a call placed to a selected subscriber by dialing said selected subscriber's unique personal number, querying specific pre-designated intelligent terminals on said selected subscriber's list to determine when said selected subscriber was last present at each terminal, said stored information being retrieved from each terminal remotely, without completing a conventional call to the terminal, and completing the call to the particular terminal that was most recently visited by the subscriber.
15. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that the intelligent terminal is a telephone, a facsimile machine, or a cellular telephone.
16. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said querying step includes receiving and transmitting signals to said intelligent terminal while said terminal is in an on-hook condition.
17. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said intelligent terminals are queried and respond with messages using the X.25 protocol.
18. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said central processor is a Service Control Point (SCP) in the public switched telephone network.
19. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said completing step is performed by a switch in the public switched telecommunications network.
20. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said central processor includes processing and storage elements in a personal computer and said querying and completing steps are performed in a switching element in said personal computer.
21. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said central processor includes processing and storage elements in a private branch exchange (PBX) and said querying and completing steps are performed in a switching element in said PBX.
22. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that each of said intelligent terminals includes a login memory, and further characterized in that said first mentioned storing step includes storing, in the login memory in each of said terminals, information indicating the current date and time when a login code was entered in said terminal while in the on-hook state.
23. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized by a step of retrieving stored information from at least one of said terminals using an Analog Display Services Interface (ADSI) protocol.
24. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that at least one of said terminals is an ISDN terminal, and in that said method includes retrieving stored information from said terminal using the ISDN D channel.
25. The method defined in claim 14, further characterized in that said personal telephone number is a 500 number.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US08/363,496 US5550907A (en) | 1994-12-23 | 1994-12-23 | Personal communication using intelligent terminals |
US363,496 | 1994-12-23 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2162931A1 CA2162931A1 (en) | 1996-06-24 |
CA2162931C true CA2162931C (en) | 1999-08-31 |
Family
ID=23430470
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002162931A Expired - Fee Related CA2162931C (en) | 1994-12-23 | 1995-11-15 | Personal communication using intelligent terminals |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US5550907A (en) |
EP (1) | EP0719059A3 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2991960B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1132990A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2162931C (en) |
Families Citing this family (119)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6717938B1 (en) | 1999-04-15 | 2004-04-06 | J2 Global Communications, Inc. | System controlling use of a communication channel |
US6453178B1 (en) * | 1994-02-24 | 2002-09-17 | Gte Wireless Service Corporation | Radiotelephone operating method with connected NPA dialing analysis |
JPH08256216A (en) * | 1995-03-16 | 1996-10-01 | Fujitsu Ltd | Incoming call transfer system and electronic mail transfer system |
US5983196A (en) * | 1995-12-19 | 1999-11-09 | Phoneworks, Inc. | Interactive computerized methods and apparatus for conducting an incentive awards program |
DE19548190A1 (en) * | 1995-12-22 | 1997-06-26 | Sel Alcatel Ag | Method for deciding whether to accept or not to accept a call, as well as a circuit unit, telecommunications terminal, portable device unit and network component for a telecommunications network |
FI101661B (en) | 1996-01-08 | 1998-07-31 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd | Activate the phone's own answering machine according to the caller's number |
US5943412A (en) * | 1996-01-31 | 1999-08-24 | France Telecom | Method and apparatus for establishing an ISDN call between parties |
US5729598A (en) * | 1996-03-11 | 1998-03-17 | Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. | Telephone network with telecommuting features |
US5905956A (en) * | 1996-06-25 | 1999-05-18 | Motorola, Inc. | Method for identifying active handsets in a cordless telephone system |
US6389042B1 (en) | 1996-06-28 | 2002-05-14 | British Telecommunications Public Limited Company | Data prompt and collect in telecommunications network having digital data and bearer channels on single communications line |
JP2000514260A (en) * | 1996-06-28 | 2000-10-24 | ブリティッシュ・テレコミュニケーションズ・パブリック・リミテッド・カンパニー | Telecommunications network |
EP0830039A1 (en) * | 1996-09-16 | 1998-03-18 | BRITISH TELECOMMUNICATIONS public limited company | Telecommunications intelligent network |
US6493430B2 (en) * | 1996-12-24 | 2002-12-10 | At&T Wireless Services, Inc. | Method of wireless retrieval of information |
US6477374B1 (en) * | 1997-01-03 | 2002-11-05 | Siemens Information And Communication Networks, Inc. | Apparatus and method for calendar based call routing |
US6119006A (en) | 1997-01-03 | 2000-09-12 | Siemens Information And Communication Systems, Inc. | System and method for calendar-based cellular smart switching |
EP0861006B1 (en) * | 1997-02-21 | 2005-05-11 | Alcatel | A service of a telecommunication system and service device realising such a service |
US6167261A (en) * | 1997-02-27 | 2000-12-26 | At&T Wireless Svcs. Inc. | Wireless communication service management |
FI105135B (en) * | 1997-04-30 | 2000-06-15 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd | A system and method for transmitting a call and a mobile station |
US6163596A (en) * | 1997-05-23 | 2000-12-19 | Hotas Holdings Ltd. | Phonebook |
US6091957A (en) * | 1997-06-12 | 2000-07-18 | Northern Telecom Limited | System and method for providing a geographic location of a mobile telecommunications unit |
US6151505A (en) * | 1997-07-03 | 2000-11-21 | Northern Telecom Limited | System and method for reporting the location of a mobile telecommunications unit to an authorized terminator telecommunications unit |
US6104799A (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2000-08-15 | At&T Corp. | Customer defined call setup |
JP3185734B2 (en) * | 1997-12-03 | 2001-07-11 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | Information terminal equipment |
DE19824161A1 (en) * | 1998-05-29 | 1999-12-02 | Siemens Ag | Method and telecommunications network for the exchange of data between at least two private branch exchanges |
US6480580B1 (en) * | 1998-09-24 | 2002-11-12 | Ericsson Inc. | User addressable computer telephony system |
US6363248B1 (en) * | 1998-12-28 | 2002-03-26 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Intelligent cellular forwarding system |
US6721577B2 (en) * | 1998-12-29 | 2004-04-13 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Linked list calling feature within a telecommunications device |
US6658254B1 (en) * | 1998-12-31 | 2003-12-02 | At&T Corp. | Method and apparatus for personalization of a public multimedia communications terminal |
US6873697B2 (en) * | 1999-03-02 | 2005-03-29 | Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ) | Method and apparatus for handling telecommunications connections |
DE19916359A1 (en) * | 1999-04-12 | 2000-10-26 | Ericsson Telefon Ab L M | PCS communication system server Method for controlling a PCS personal communication system server |
FR2795900B1 (en) * | 1999-06-29 | 2004-09-24 | Sigma B V B A | ADAPTIVE CALL CENTER |
US6678366B1 (en) * | 1999-08-31 | 2004-01-13 | Ulysses Esd, Inc. | System and method for locating subscribers using a best guess location algorithm |
US6527641B1 (en) * | 1999-09-24 | 2003-03-04 | Nokia Corporation | System for profiling mobile station activity in a predictive command wireless game system |
JP2001103159A (en) * | 1999-09-29 | 2001-04-13 | Sony Corp | Communication system and communication method |
US6950881B1 (en) * | 1999-11-02 | 2005-09-27 | Mshift, Inc. | System for converting wireless communications for a mobile device |
GB0006614D0 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2000-05-10 | Pressurecall Ltd | Improved communication system |
US20010044849A1 (en) * | 2000-05-16 | 2001-11-22 | Awele Ndili | System for providing network content to wireless devices |
JP2002073561A (en) * | 2000-09-01 | 2002-03-12 | Toyota Motor Corp | Method and system for authenticating user to perform access through communication network and information processing system utilizing the same |
US6947537B2 (en) * | 2000-09-15 | 2005-09-20 | Verizon Services Corp. | Methods and apparatus for using AIN techniques to facilitate servicing of calls by a group of users |
US20020161928A1 (en) * | 2000-10-10 | 2002-10-31 | Awele Ndili | Smart agent for providing network content to wireless devices |
WO2002063486A1 (en) * | 2001-02-05 | 2002-08-15 | Personity, Inc. | A method and device for displaying contact information in a presence and availability management system |
US6976017B1 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2005-12-13 | Verizon Data Services Inc. | Method and apparatus for context based querying |
US7903796B1 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2011-03-08 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Method and apparatus for unified communication management via instant messaging |
US8488761B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-07-16 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for a call log |
US8761363B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2014-06-24 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for automatic forwarding of communications to a preferred device |
US8798251B2 (en) * | 2001-02-27 | 2014-08-05 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for computer enhanced conference calling |
US7418090B2 (en) | 2002-11-25 | 2008-08-26 | Telesector Resources Group Inc. | Methods and systems for conference call buffering |
US8503639B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-08-06 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Method and apparatus for adaptive message and call notification |
US8467502B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-06-18 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Interactive assistant for managing telephone communications |
US8873730B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2014-10-28 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Method and apparatus for calendared communications flow control |
US8494135B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-07-23 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for contact management |
US8472606B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-06-25 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for directory information lookup |
US8774380B2 (en) * | 2001-02-27 | 2014-07-08 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Methods and systems for call management with user intervention |
US8751571B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2014-06-10 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for CPN triggered collaboration |
US8750482B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2014-06-10 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for preemptive rejection of calls |
US8472428B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-06-25 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for line management |
US7912193B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2011-03-22 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for call management with user intervention |
US8503650B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-08-06 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for configuring and providing conference calls |
US8488766B2 (en) | 2001-02-27 | 2013-07-16 | Verizon Data Services Llc | Methods and systems for multiuser selective notification |
US7114021B2 (en) * | 2001-03-01 | 2006-09-26 | Symbol Technologies, Inc. | System and method providing configuration services for communications devices |
US7260077B2 (en) * | 2001-06-18 | 2007-08-21 | Nortel Networks Limited | Adaptive scheduling for multi-carrier systems |
US6750897B1 (en) | 2001-08-16 | 2004-06-15 | Verizon Data Services Inc. | Systems and methods for implementing internet video conferencing using standard phone calls |
US7068769B1 (en) * | 2001-09-04 | 2006-06-27 | Sprint Spectrum L.P. | Method and system for communication processing based on physical presence |
US20030058806A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication system with advanced conference call management |
US7177412B2 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2007-02-13 | Berlyoung Danny L | Multi-media communication management system with multicast messaging capabilities |
US7088685B2 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2006-08-08 | Meyerson Robert F | Modular multi-media communication management system with an integrated service for wide area network wireless telephones |
US20040004942A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2004-01-08 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication management system having graphical user interface conference session management |
US20030058805A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware Inc. | Multi-media communication management system with enhanced video conference services |
US7177403B2 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2007-02-13 | Meyerson Robert F | Event driven multi-media communication management system |
US20030059002A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication management system for routing incoming calls to a subscriber device that is served by a subscriber station |
US7054423B2 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2006-05-30 | Nebiker Robert M | Multi-media communication downloading |
US20040015574A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2004-01-22 | Teleware, Inc. | Multimedia communication management system with external system management |
US20030137959A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-07-24 | Nebiker Robert M. | Flexible-link multi-media communication |
US7054416B2 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2006-05-30 | Meyerson Robert F | Modular multi-media communication management system |
US20030059005A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication management system with dynamic bypass routing of real time streaming media |
US20030059020A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication management system supporting selectable appliance modules |
US20030061622A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Nebiker Robert M. | Multi-media communication management system with automated paging |
US20040068648A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2004-04-08 | Teleware, Inc. | Multimedia communication management |
US20030059014A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication management system with caller managed hold system |
US20030059021A1 (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2003-03-27 | Teleware, Inc. | Multi-media communication management system with selectable call routing |
US8644475B1 (en) | 2001-10-16 | 2014-02-04 | Rockstar Consortium Us Lp | Telephony usage derived presence information |
US7415502B2 (en) * | 2001-11-16 | 2008-08-19 | Sbc Technology Resources, Inc. | Method and system for intelligent routing based on presence detection |
US6735287B2 (en) * | 2001-11-16 | 2004-05-11 | Sbc Technology Resources, Inc. | Method and system for multimodal presence detection |
US20030135624A1 (en) * | 2001-12-27 | 2003-07-17 | Mckinnon Steve J. | Dynamic presence management |
US7299286B2 (en) * | 2001-12-27 | 2007-11-20 | Nortel Networks Limited | Personal user agent |
US9392120B2 (en) | 2002-02-27 | 2016-07-12 | Verizon Patent And Licensing Inc. | Methods and systems for call management with user intervention |
US7206388B2 (en) * | 2002-03-18 | 2007-04-17 | Openwave Systems Inc. | System and method for providing voice-activated presence information |
US7227937B1 (en) | 2002-03-19 | 2007-06-05 | Nortel Networks Limited | Monitoring natural interaction for presence detection |
US6658095B1 (en) | 2002-03-19 | 2003-12-02 | Nortel Networks Limited | Customized presence information delivery |
US20030181223A1 (en) * | 2002-03-25 | 2003-09-25 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | System and method for voice activated dialing |
US7139797B1 (en) | 2002-04-10 | 2006-11-21 | Nortel Networks Limited | Presence information based on media activity |
US7035923B1 (en) | 2002-04-10 | 2006-04-25 | Nortel Networks Limited | Presence information specifying communication preferences |
US8392609B2 (en) * | 2002-09-17 | 2013-03-05 | Apple Inc. | Proximity detection for media proxies |
US20040059781A1 (en) * | 2002-09-19 | 2004-03-25 | Nortel Networks Limited | Dynamic presence indicators |
US7555108B2 (en) * | 2002-10-01 | 2009-06-30 | Nortel Networks Limited | Presence information for telephony users |
US20040122901A1 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2004-06-24 | Nortel Networks Limited | Providing computer presence information to an integrated presence system |
US7257218B2 (en) * | 2002-12-30 | 2007-08-14 | Nortel Networks Limited | Presence enabled queue management |
US7711810B2 (en) * | 2003-01-03 | 2010-05-04 | Nortel Networks Limited | Distributed services based on presence technology |
HK1059191A2 (en) * | 2003-02-26 | 2004-05-28 | Intexact Technologies Ltd | A telephony system and a method of operating same |
US20040174975A1 (en) * | 2003-03-05 | 2004-09-09 | Nortel Networks Limited | Common call routing for multiple telephony devices |
US7035390B2 (en) * | 2003-03-07 | 2006-04-25 | Nortel Networks Limited | User controlled call routing for multiple telephony devices |
US6978003B1 (en) | 2003-05-22 | 2005-12-20 | Nortel Networks Limited | Adaptive call routing for multiple telephony terminals |
CN100440907C (en) * | 2003-05-27 | 2008-12-03 | 华为技术有限公司 | Method for realizing personnel number service |
US9118574B1 (en) | 2003-11-26 | 2015-08-25 | RPX Clearinghouse, LLC | Presence reporting using wireless messaging |
US7536206B2 (en) * | 2003-12-16 | 2009-05-19 | Research In Motion Limited | Expedited communication key system and method |
US8229454B1 (en) | 2004-03-22 | 2012-07-24 | Avaya Inc. | Personal location information management |
WO2007003100A1 (en) * | 2005-07-01 | 2007-01-11 | Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. | A method and device for realizing intelligent call service |
CN1852357B (en) * | 2005-07-01 | 2010-08-25 | 华为技术有限公司 | Business integrating method |
US7869799B2 (en) * | 2005-07-28 | 2011-01-11 | Research In Motion Limited | Method and system for forwarding calls placed to a telecommunications destination |
US20070088839A1 (en) * | 2005-10-19 | 2007-04-19 | Nortel Networks Limited | Local time related presence automation and session control |
US7715881B1 (en) * | 2005-12-28 | 2010-05-11 | At&T Intellectual Property, I, L.P. | Automatically initiating and answering communications |
US8225103B2 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2012-07-17 | Avatier Corporation | Controlling access to a protected network |
US7728636B2 (en) * | 2007-08-14 | 2010-06-01 | Qimonda Ag | Clock signal synchronizing device with inherent duty-cycle correction capability |
US9026131B2 (en) | 2009-07-21 | 2015-05-05 | Modena Enterprises, Llc | Systems and methods for associating contextual information and a contact entry with a communication originating from a geographic location |
US9222798B2 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2015-12-29 | Modena Enterprises, Llc | Systems and methods for identifying an activity of a user based on a chronological order of detected movements of a computing device |
US9215735B2 (en) | 2010-03-03 | 2015-12-15 | Modena Enterprises, Llc | Systems and methods for initiating communications with contacts based on a communication specification |
US9215689B2 (en) | 2013-03-11 | 2015-12-15 | Motorola Solutions, Inc. | Method and apparatus for resolving call collisions in a digital conventional direct mode |
US9370023B2 (en) | 2013-03-11 | 2016-06-14 | Motorola Solutions, Inc. | Method and apparatus for resolving call collisions in a digital conventional direct mode |
JP6898004B2 (en) * | 2019-12-12 | 2021-07-07 | Necプラットフォームズ株式会社 | Telephone exchange equipment, telephone terminals, telephone exchange systems, control methods and control programs |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4313035A (en) * | 1980-01-18 | 1982-01-26 | Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated | Method of providing person locator service |
JP2577768B2 (en) * | 1988-03-29 | 1997-02-05 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Guest location display method in hotel private branch exchange |
US5243645A (en) * | 1990-11-01 | 1993-09-07 | At&T Bell Laboratories | Automatic system for forwarding of calls |
US5315636A (en) * | 1991-06-28 | 1994-05-24 | Network Access Corporation | Personal telecommunications system |
JP3454822B2 (en) * | 1992-08-26 | 2003-10-06 | ベルサウス インテレクチャル プロパティ コーポレイション | Personal number communication system |
CA2088420C (en) * | 1993-01-29 | 1996-10-08 | Deborah L. Pinard | Method of establishing communication link to one of multiple devices associated with single telephone number |
-
1994
- 1994-12-23 US US08/363,496 patent/US5550907A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1995
- 1995-11-15 CA CA002162931A patent/CA2162931C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1995-12-11 EP EP95308965A patent/EP0719059A3/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1995-12-22 CN CN95120147A patent/CN1132990A/en active Pending
- 1995-12-25 JP JP7336405A patent/JP2991960B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JP2991960B2 (en) | 1999-12-20 |
EP0719059A3 (en) | 1997-10-01 |
JPH08242296A (en) | 1996-09-17 |
CA2162931A1 (en) | 1996-06-24 |
US5550907A (en) | 1996-08-27 |
EP0719059A2 (en) | 1996-06-26 |
CN1132990A (en) | 1996-10-09 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2162931C (en) | Personal communication using intelligent terminals | |
CA2251507C (en) | System and method for providing caller identification in conjunction with calling card calls | |
US5465295A (en) | Caller directed routing of a telephone call based on a dialed suffix | |
US7548745B2 (en) | Method and system for delivering a voice mail notification to a subscriber using cellular phone network | |
US6049712A (en) | Arrangement system and method relating to telecommunications access and control | |
US6094574A (en) | Alpha enhanced paging and voice mail system and method | |
CN1097377C (en) | Intelligent based selective call forwarding | |
WO1998021911A1 (en) | Device for routing information updates | |
GB2198011A (en) | Method and apparatus for providing personalized telephone subscriber features at remote locations | |
US6393278B1 (en) | Method and system for transmitting call related information from a telecommunications network to a pager | |
US6597785B1 (en) | Automatic caller ID call log dial back | |
CN1147747A (en) | System and method for establishing communications with mobileparty | |
KR100360226B1 (en) | Method for storing, inquiring and calling telephone number of originator by using private simplified electronic exchange | |
KR100978385B1 (en) | Method and apparatus for connecting call signals according to priority of telephone numbers, and telecommunications system and terminal using the same | |
JP3701164B2 (en) | Portable communication device | |
KR101062136B1 (en) | Method and system of call connection using text in mobile communication network | |
US6574479B1 (en) | Method and apparatus for sending a message to a pager using a subscriber telephone number | |
JP3296323B2 (en) | Phone transfer method and phone transfer system | |
JP2000299737A (en) | Notification service system for information of telephone subscriber | |
KR100751679B1 (en) | System and method for providing short message service | |
KR200212969Y1 (en) | Apparatus for portable terminal utilizing caller ID callback | |
JPH09130476A (en) | Connection processing method to plural terminal users and device therefor | |
KR20020031627A (en) | Caller ID presentation method in personal number service | |
KR20040095073A (en) | User interface muchine and method by winc for personal number service | |
JPH06104985A (en) | Personal information display device in private branch of exchange |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
EEER | Examination request | ||
MKLA | Lapsed |