US20020039409A1 - Voice-data telephonic interface control system - Google Patents

Voice-data telephonic interface control system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20020039409A1
US20020039409A1 US09/835,146 US83514601A US2002039409A1 US 20020039409 A1 US20020039409 A1 US 20020039409A1 US 83514601 A US83514601 A US 83514601A US 2002039409 A1 US2002039409 A1 US 2002039409A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
signals
digital
data
audio
control
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.)
Abandoned
Application number
US09/835,146
Inventor
Ronald Katz
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ronald A Katz Tech Licensing LP
Original Assignee
Ronald A Katz Tech Licensing LP
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=46247335&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20020039409(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from US07/018,244 external-priority patent/US4792968A/en
Priority claimed from US07/194,258 external-priority patent/US4845739A/en
Priority claimed from US07/312,792 external-priority patent/US5073929A/en
Priority claimed from US07/481,403 external-priority patent/US5014298A/en
Priority claimed from US07/680,879 external-priority patent/US5224153A/en
Application filed by Ronald A Katz Tech Licensing LP filed Critical Ronald A Katz Tech Licensing LP
Priority to US09/835,146 priority Critical patent/US20020039409A1/en
Publication of US20020039409A1 publication Critical patent/US20020039409A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G07CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07CTIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C11/00Arrangements, systems or apparatus for checking, e.g. the occurrence of a condition, not provided for elsewhere
    • GPHYSICS
    • G07CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07CTIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C15/00Generating random numbers; Lottery apparatus
    • G07C15/005Generating random numbers; Lottery apparatus with dispensing of lottery tickets
    • GPHYSICS
    • G07CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07CTIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C15/00Generating random numbers; Lottery apparatus
    • G07C15/006Generating random numbers; Lottery apparatus electronically
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M11/00Telephonic communication systems specially adapted for combination with other electrical systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/22Arrangements for supervision, monitoring or testing
    • H04M3/36Statistical metering, e.g. recording occasions when traffic exceeds capacity of trunks
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/38Graded-service arrangements, i.e. some subscribers prevented from establishing certain connections
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/46Arrangements for calling a number of substations in a predetermined sequence until an answer is obtained
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/487Arrangements for providing information services, e.g. recorded voice services or time announcements
    • H04M3/493Interactive information services, e.g. directory enquiries ; Arrangements therefor, e.g. interactive voice response [IVR] systems or voice portals
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/50Centralised arrangements for answering calls; Centralised arrangements for recording messages for absent or busy subscribers ; Centralised arrangements for recording messages
    • H04M3/51Centralised call answering arrangements requiring operator intervention, e.g. call or contact centers for telemarketing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/50Centralised arrangements for answering calls; Centralised arrangements for recording messages for absent or busy subscribers ; Centralised arrangements for recording messages
    • H04M3/51Centralised call answering arrangements requiring operator intervention, e.g. call or contact centers for telemarketing
    • H04M3/5166Centralised call answering arrangements requiring operator intervention, e.g. call or contact centers for telemarketing in combination with interactive voice response systems or voice portals, e.g. as front-ends
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/0016Arrangements providing connection between exchanges
    • H04Q3/002Details
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/42Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker
    • H04Q3/54Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised
    • H04Q3/545Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised using a stored programme
    • H04Q3/54508Configuration, initialisation
    • H04Q3/54533Configuration data, translation, passwords, databases
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/42Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker
    • H04Q3/54Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised
    • H04Q3/545Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised using a stored programme
    • H04Q3/54541Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised using a stored programme using multi-processor systems
    • H04Q3/5455Multi-processor, parallelism, distributed systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/42Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker
    • H04Q3/54Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised
    • H04Q3/545Circuit arrangements for indirect selecting controlled by common circuits, e.g. register controller, marker in which the logic circuitry controlling the exchange is centralised using a stored programme
    • H04Q3/54575Software application
    • H04Q3/54591Supervision, e.g. fault localisation, traffic measurements, avoiding errors, failure recovery, monitoring, statistical analysis
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/64Distributing or queueing
    • H04Q3/66Traffic distributors
    • H04Q3/665Circuit arrangements therefor
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/72Finding out and indicating number of calling subscriber
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q3/00Selecting arrangements
    • H04Q3/72Finding out and indicating number of calling subscriber
    • H04Q3/74Identification of subscriber calling from a party-line
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63FCARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F3/00Board games; Raffle games
    • A63F3/08Raffle games that can be played by a fairly large number of people
    • A63F3/081Raffle games that can be played by a fairly large number of people electric
    • A63F2003/082Raffle games that can be played by a fairly large number of people electric with remote participants
    • A63F2003/086Raffle games that can be played by a fairly large number of people electric with remote participants played via telephone, e.g. using a modem
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2201/00Electronic components, circuits, software, systems or apparatus used in telephone systems
    • H04M2201/40Electronic components, circuits, software, systems or apparatus used in telephone systems using speech recognition
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2203/00Aspects of automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M2203/20Aspects of automatic or semi-automatic exchanges related to features of supplementary services
    • H04M2203/2016Call initiation by network rather than by subscriber
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2242/00Special services or facilities
    • H04M2242/22Automatic class or number identification arrangements
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/42025Calling or Called party identification service
    • H04M3/42034Calling party identification service
    • H04M3/42042Notifying the called party of information on the calling party
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/42025Calling or Called party identification service
    • H04M3/42034Calling party identification service
    • H04M3/42059Making use of the calling party identifier
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M3/00Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
    • H04M3/42Systems providing special services or facilities to subscribers
    • H04M3/436Arrangements for screening incoming calls, i.e. evaluating the characteristics of a call before deciding whether to answer it
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13034A/D conversion, code compression/expansion
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13072Sequence circuits for call signaling, ACD systems
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1309Apparatus individually associated with a subscriber line, line circuits
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13091CLI, identification of calling line
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13093Personal computer, PC
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13095PIN / Access code, authentication
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13096Digital apparatus individually associated with a subscriber line, digital line circuits
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13097Numbering, addressing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13103Memory
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13106Microprocessor, CPU
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13107Control equipment for a part of the connection, distributed control, co-processing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1316Service observation, testing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13173Busy signals
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13175Graphical user interface [GUI], WWW interface, visual indication
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13178Control signals
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13204Protocols
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1322PBX
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13256Call screening
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1328Call transfer, e.g. in PBX
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1332Logic circuits
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13349Network management
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1337Operator, emergency services
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13375Electronic mail
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13376Information service, downloading of information, 0800/0900 services
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13377Recorded announcement

Definitions

  • the present invention is based on recognizing the need in such systems to accommodate voice signals as to provide recorded audio data, as for subsequent use. Accordingly, the system of the present invention accommodates a caller to identify digital control signals, digital data signals and audio signals, all in an organized format as to accomplish a record for subsequent processing or use.
  • the present invention comprises a telephone computer interface system accommodating digital and vocal telephonic communication, the system being expanded to accommodate and flag audio data distinct from digital data.
  • either outbound or inbound calling operations attain an interface with a central data processing system.
  • various states are implemented for the central system to receive and identify: digital control signals, digital data signals and audio or voice signals.
  • Somewhat conventional operation may involve automated vocal communications to cue the caller and keypad digital communications from the caller.
  • data received from the caller is set in memory for subsequent use or processing. The data may be addressed as to cue a remote terminal or to isolate a set or subset. Callers may be qualified by automatic number identification (ANI) signals checked against an assigned consumable key number.
  • ANI automatic number identification
  • the system accommodates flexible control and data accumulation (including cued audio) to accommodate any of various specific interface applications or formats.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system constructed in accordance with the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a block and schematic diagram of a component in the system of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the operating process of the structure represented in FIG. 2.
  • a series of remote terminals T 1 -Tn (telephone instruments) are represented (left).
  • the terminals T 1 -Tn may be similar and accordingly only the terminal T 1 is shown in any detail.
  • the indicated terminals T 1 -Tn represent the multitude of telephone terminals existing in association with a communication facility CO which may comprise a comprehensive public telephone network.
  • the communication facility CO accommodating the individual terminals T 1 -Tn, is coupled to a central processing station CS generally indicated by a dashed-line block.
  • processors are provided to interface the terminals T 1 -Tn so as to accomplish a desired operating format, and accordingly accumulate data relating to individual callers.
  • Calls to and from the terminals T 1 -Tn are individually processed in accordance with a specific format to accomplish a data cell or packet.
  • the objective of a call may be to order an item of merchandise to implement a mail-order operation.
  • a service may be specified and ordered.
  • the interface accomplishes data as a cell for processing the order.
  • the system may function for public polls, lotteries, auctions, promotions and games.
  • the collective interface involving the communication system CO and the processing station CS may involve several thousand calls.
  • the station CS may take the form of a sizeable computer or mainframe capable of simultaneously controlling smaller units or directly operating to process many calls involving individual interfaces.
  • the central station CS of the disclosed embodiment includes a control unit functioning with a plurality of audio response units and associated individual processors and attended terminals.
  • the system of the present invention accumulates data from the remote terminals T 1 -Tn in cells, which data may include audio data and digital data (numerical) flagged or otherwise distinguished for subsequent expedient processing. Accordingly, the system enables a person at a terminal (T 1 -Tn) to provide data in both audio and digital forms. For audio transmissions, the person utilizes the telephone handpiece (microphone) while for digital communications, the person utilizes the telephone push buttons (keypad).
  • a handpiece 10 (microphone and earphone) is shown along with a panel 12 provided with a rectangular array of individual push buttons 14 in a conventional configuration.
  • the handpiece 10 accommodates analog signals while the panel 12 is a digital apparatus.
  • a person is informed or cued through the handpiece 10 (earphone) to provide data in accordance with a specific format.
  • the person may provide signals utilizing either the buttons 14 or the handpiece 10 (microphone).
  • buttons 14 In conventional telephone structures, alphabetic and numeric designations are provided on the buttons 14 .
  • several of the buttons 14 carry three letters along with a decimal digit.
  • the button designated with the numeral “2” also carries the letters “A”, “B” and “C”.
  • the buttons 14 encompass: the numerals “0-9”, the symbols “*” and “#” and the alphabet except for the letters “Q” and “Z”.
  • the communication facility CO is coupled selectively to certain of the terminals T 1 -Tn through audio response units AR 1 -ARn.
  • the communication facility CO couples the actuated terminal through one line of several sets of lines LS 1 -LSn to one of the audio response units AR 1 -ARn.
  • automatic call distributors may be utilized as well known in the art.
  • incoming lines 20 are received through a coupler 22 for communication with individual interface format processors IP 1 -IPn.
  • the interface processors IP 1 -IPn are illustrated as separate and distinct units; however, as mentioned above, it is to be recognized that various structural processing combinations may be used, based on time sharing, parallel processing, compiler techniques, bus technologies and other well known computer techniques to accomplish the objective processing as explained in detail below. In some instances, certain of the structure and functions of the processors IP 1 -IPn can be variously incorporated in the units AR 1 -ARn. Of course, specific arrangements and configurations will likely be implemented based on available hardware and software development.
  • the coupler 22 is also connected to a master control and memory unit 24 which is associatively coupled to a look-up table 25 , a consumable key limit unit 27 , a subset counter 29 and through a crossbar 26 to each of the processors IP 1 -IPn.
  • a master control and memory unit 24 which is associatively coupled to a look-up table 25 , a consumable key limit unit 27 , a subset counter 29 and through a crossbar 26 to each of the processors IP 1 -IPn.
  • the coupler 22 essentially functions as a switch as well known in the prior art to establish line couplings from one line of an audio response unit (AR 1 -ARn) to one of the interface processors IP 1 -IPn.
  • the operation of the coupler 22 is implemented in association with the control unit 24 which may be programmed to execute control and memory functions as detailed below.
  • the division of functions between the unit 24 , the units AR 1 -ARn and the processors IP 1 -IPn may vary considerably depending on available structures and techniques. The disclosed system is merely exemplary in that regard.
  • the interface processors IP 1 -IPn receive basic record data from the unit 24 and order data from the terminals T 1 -Tn.
  • program data may be stored in the processors IP 1 -IPn or supplied from the unit 24 .
  • a packet of data is collected in a processor IP 1 -IPn during an interface. After being organized in a cell and flagged, the data packet is returned from an interface processor IP 1 -IPn to the unit 24 for subsequent use or processing.
  • the unit 24 functions as an automatic dialer to attain desired connections through the units AR 1 -ARn in accordance with stored telephone numbers.
  • the interface processors IP 1 -IPn may be individually associated through a coupler 30 with an attended terminal AT 1 -ATn.
  • the terminals AT 1 -ATn may be connected through a coupling unit 31 to an off-line processor 33 , also connected to the control and memory unit 24 .
  • each data cell manifests a merchandise order identifying specific goods, a specific customer, a shipping destination and other related data.
  • data in individual cells may include flagged audio data.
  • the operation of the system involves the organized accumulation of mail-order data (some of which may be audio) in the unit 24 addressable for subsequent use by the processor 33 , as to implement billing and delivery of services or merchandise.
  • a cell register 34 (FIG. 2, center) is divided into fields to illustrate an exemplary data format. Specifically, the cell register 34 defines several separate fields for data components manifesting an exemplary order. Record data for some of the fields may reside in the master control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) before the occurrence of any telephone interface. However, other fields are loaded or modified during the period of the interface with a caller at one of the remote terminals T 1 -Tn providing elements of the data.
  • variously accumulated record data is initially loaded into the cell register 34 from the control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) through a bus 36 (FIG. 2, right center) that is connected through the crossbar 26 (FIG. 1) to the unit 24 .
  • the same bus 36 accommodates movement of a completed or modified data cell to memory (in the unit 24 ).
  • ANI telephone signals may be received through the line 38 indicating the telephone dialing number of the caller.
  • ANI automated number identification
  • signals may be provided from the communication facility CO (FIG. 1) automatically indicating the telephone number for the calling terminal T 1 -Tn.
  • the ANI signals may be treated either as control or data signals on being received through an audio response unit (AR 1 -ARn, FIG. 1), the coupler 22 and the line 38 (FIG. 2).
  • control signals in the line 38 are utilized for the controlled registration of digital data signals and audio signals as appropriate to each specific interface.
  • the data and audio signals also are received through the line 38 .
  • the line 38 connected to the coupler 22 (FIG. 1) is shown to include two separate communication paths, specifically an outgoing path 40 (FIG. 2) and an incoming path 42 . of course in practice, the two paths would comprise a common two-way or bidirectional line.
  • the master control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) supplies dialing signals through the coupler 22 and a unit (AR 1 -ARn) to the facility CO.
  • an automatic dialer structure is incorporated as well known in the art.
  • the unit 24 On completion of a connection to a terminal T 1 -Tn, the unit 24 actuates a processor IP 1 -IPn through the crossbar 26 .
  • an addressed data packet is used to advise, inform or cue a person at a connected remote terminal (T 1 -Tn).
  • an audio response unit AR 1 -ARn may perform some preliminary operations, after which calls are referred to a processor IP 1 -IPn through the coupler.
  • a remote terminal T 1 -Tn to a processor IP 1 -IPn initiates an interface format.
  • the connection through the coupler 22 and the audio response unit AR 1 -ARn remains active.
  • the outgoing communication path 40 (FIG. 2) is provided with voice signals from a voice generator 44 that is in turn controlled by a processor controller 46 .
  • the controller 46 may possess some substantial computing capability along with storage. Accordingly, it responds to an operating program as disclosed in detail below to accomplish an interface format.
  • the outgoing communication path 40 of the line 38 also is connected to one of the attended terminals AT 1 -ATn.
  • the signal route in FIG. 2 is to the path 40 either from a line 48 or the voice generator 44 .
  • signals are provided through a multiplexer 52 to provide various lines L 0 , L 1 , L 2 or L 3 exclusively active.
  • the line L 3 or line 50 is coupled to an attended terminal AT 1 -ATn (FIG. 1).
  • signals from persons at terminals are variously transferred, including transfer to an attended terminal (AT 1 -ATn, FIG. 1).
  • the status of an interface may vary, one status or state designating an interconnection of one of the remote terminals T 1 -Tn with an attended terminal, that is, one of the terminals AT 1 -ATn.
  • the status of an interface with a caller is indicated by a status register 56 (FIG. 2, upper right) which is controlled by the process controller 46 and in turn controls the multiplexer 52 .
  • the status register 56 basically comprises a two-bit counter capable of indicating four states to control the lines L 0 -L 3 from the multiplexer 52 , as indicated below.
  • Active State Operation Multiplexer Line “0” Cue data signals (digital) L0 “1” Cue control signals (digital) L1 “2” Cue audio signals L2 “3” Actuate live interface L3
  • the states “0”, “1” and “2” indicate operations to prompt persons to provide signals digitally. Alternatively, any of the states may be used merely to inform a person where no response is to be received. As indicated above, in the state “3”, the caller speaks directly with an operator to provide information in an audio form. The other states accommodate computer interface signals. Implementing the different states, the multiplexer 52 (controlled by the status register 56 ) selectively activates one of the four lines L 0 , L 1 , L 2 or L 3 to receive a specific class of signals from the path 42 .
  • control signals received in the line L 1 are applied to actuate the controller 46 .
  • the data or information signals received in the lines L 0 and L 2 are provided to the cell register 34 through a gating network 62 (lower left). Several connections are involved.
  • the line L 3 is coupled to an attended terminal (AT 1 -ATn, FIG. 1) through a line 50 .
  • the line L 0 (digital data) is connected to the controller 46 and to a movable contact 64 of the gating network 62 .
  • the line L 1 is connected only to the controller 46 .
  • the line L 2 (audio) is connected through an audio processor 60 to the controller 46 and to the movable contact 64 .
  • the gating network 62 is illustrated in an electromechanical form for ease of explanation with the movable contact 64 displaceable to engage each of the stationary contacts C 1 -C 11 in sequence. However, in an actual embodiment, a well known analogous solid-state configuration would be employed.
  • the movable contact 64 is driven by a gate control 66 to sequentially encounter stationary contacts C 1 -C 11 which are coupled to fields of the register 34 .
  • a mechanical drive connection is indicated by a dashed line 67 , the gate control 66 being actuated by the process controller 46 as described in detail below.
  • the flow diagram of FIG. 3 implements an exemplary mail-order format for a sales organization with existing “local” customers of record (identified by telephone number, credit card number, etc.) acceptable for credit transactions.
  • customers are provided with a “special” catalog from which a single order may be placed for each telephone terminal.
  • customers are assigned a consumable key of “one” to accordingly limit ordering.
  • Calls from customers are coupled through an audio response unit, e.g. unit AR 1 (FIG. 1) and the coupler 22 to the master control unit 24 .
  • the customer is recognized by a telephone number manifest by automatic number-identification (ANI) signals.
  • ANI automatic number-identification
  • Customer data is fetched to the consumable key limit unit 27 based on the calling telephone number.
  • the call is then tested to proceed conditionally on the key not being previously used or consumed. The test is illustrated by a block 77 (FIG. 3) and is executed by the unit 27 with reference to a field 81 of the data packet as shown in the register 34 (FIG. 2). If there has been a previous call, the instant call is-terminated as indicated.
  • the data cell is fetched from the unit 24 to a cell register, e.g. register 34 (FIG. 2).
  • the operation is indicated by the block 79 (FIG. 3).
  • calls to a specific format number are limited to “one”.
  • consumable keys may be set to accomplish any desired limitation with respect to a specific format.
  • Format interface operation follows approval of a call.
  • the processor involved e.g. processor IP 1 (FIG. 2) is set to state “0” as indicated by the block 80 (FIG. 3). That state, also indicated by the status register 56 (FIG. 2) controls the processor 46 so that a caller is cued for digital data signals to be formed by use of the buttons 14 at the caller's remote terminal. Specifically, the caller might be cued: “Please indicate your first item by keying in the three-digit catalog number.” The audio is reproduced at the terminal.
  • identification for an item is stored in a field 82 (FIG. 2) of the cell register 34 .
  • color, size and code data for selected items are cued and stored in a field 84 .
  • other items may be ordered with the consequence that they are recorded in further of the fields 82 and 84 of the cell register 34 .
  • the operation also is represented by the block 86 in FIG. 3 and might be cued: “Please indicate your next item or push button ‘3’ to indicate you are finished.”
  • the system sets state “1” (cue control) in the status register 56 (FIG. 2) as indicated by block 88 (FIG. 3).
  • state “1” also may be attained by a period of silence from the caller.
  • the subsequent operation involves a junction, as indicated by the block 90 , a determination to be made by whether or not the caller is a customer of record, e.g. “local account?” As an example, the caller might be cued: “If you have a local account, please push button ‘1’; if not, please push button ‘2’.”
  • the resulting digital control signals set the course for subsequent operations as implemented by the controller 46 . Of course, the indication may be confirmed or originated from the data packet.
  • the system is again set in state “1” to cue for control signals as indicated by the block 104 (FIG. 3). Specifically, as indicated by a junction block 104 , a search is made for the customer's identification number. If the number is found, another control signal is cued. Specifically, as indicated by the block 106 , the customer's address is verified. If the proper address is confirmed to be registered for the customer, the record is completed as indicated by the block 108 . This operation, performed by the unit 46 , may involve inventory verification or other internal operations as described in detail below.
  • the system operation progresses-to an internal decision block 110 to test whether or not audio data has been received.
  • the audio test simply queries whether or not the status register 56 has been set to manifest the existence of the states “2” or “3” to enter audio data. Control in that regard is by the controller 46 (FIG. 2).
  • routine orders i.e. customers with local accounts placing orders that can be processed entirely on the basis of digital control signals and digital data signals (no audio) entered digitally as outlined above.
  • digital control signals and digital data signals no audio
  • audio operations involve either the introduction of a person-to-person interface, as for example for a new customer, or audio signal interface, as for example to record a new address for an existing customer.
  • these operations may be actuated variously in combination with digital data control and recording.
  • Such operations may involve proceeding through a block 118 (FIG. 3, upper left); however, other possibilities exist.
  • One such possibility occurs when a caller indicates that his record address is not correct.
  • the junction block 106 queries “verify address?”
  • the cue or prompt might take the form: “According to our records, you are Mr.
  • a “no” response results in another test as indicated by the block 120 questioning whether or not the present situation is merely a case of an altered address. If so, the system proceeds from a “yes” determination of the block 120 to obtain an audio record of the new address. As indicated by the block 122 , state “2” is set and the caller is cued to state his new address as indicated by the block 124 . The address is processed by the audio processor 60 (FIG. 2) and stored as audio data as indicated by the block 126 (FIG. 3). The operation then proceeds on the basis of a complete record as indicated by the block 108 . Note that in this instance audio data is registered in the cell 34 (FIG.
  • the junction block 110 (FIG. 3, lower right) indicates the presence of audio data with the result that the cell register 34 stores a class “1” bit to indicate the order data includes audio data.
  • the operation for the case of a complex address change involves setting the operating state “3”, i.e. actuating a live interface.
  • Other patterns also may lead to that operating sequence.
  • patterns for a line operator interface may include a non-local account or failure to locate account data.
  • a caller may prompt a direct personal contact simply by depressing the telephone button designated “*”. Accordingly, as indicated in FIG. 3 at block 118 , the occurrence of an asterisk signal (*) sets state “3” with operation proceeding from block 118 to activate a live interface as indicated by the block 128 .
  • the controller also may initiate state “3” as when meaningless data is received.
  • the operation involves the step represented by the block 118 (FIG. 3) “set state ‘3’” and the counter 29 (FIG. 1, upper right).
  • the master control unit 24 might actuate the unit AR 1 to produce an audio message at the terminal T 1 as follows: “You are being transferred to a live operator. Please stay on the line as you may win a valuable prize.” Immediately, the unit 24 increments the counter 29 . If a specified count is attained, e.g. “1000”, the caller is awarded a premium.
  • the unit 24 actuates the unit AR 1 to produce an announcement: “You have won a $100 credit for your next order. Please stand by.”
  • the system operation proceeds to the block 108 (record complete). If the order record is not completed void of audio data, operation proceeds in state “3”. Again, under control of a live operator, the system may follow different paths to produce an ultimate determination of whether or not the audio data provides a complete order as indicated by the decision block 134 . In that regard, an operator may perfect an order record on the basis of a bank credit card or a new customer accommodation. In any event, if an order is not completed, the operation simply terminates as indicated by the block 136 . Conversely, a completed order returns operation to block 108 indicating the record is complete.
  • Exemplary operating patterns of interfaces are treated in detail below; however, after addressing individual caller data, the disclosed embodiment reproduces audio messages at the connected remote terminal.
  • the system cues a remote terminal, as with voice instructions to prompt: (1) digital control signals, (2) digital data signals and (3) audio signals for digital recording.
  • various patterns are selected with the objective of completing data in the cell register for subsequently processing the individual order.
  • the processing generally includes data for shipping merchandise and billing the customer.
  • call signals provided to an audio response unit AR 1 -ARn may include representations of the caller's number and accordingly access a file on the caller.
  • the caller's number may be provided in a digital form.
  • the master control and memory unit 24 then accesses the caller's cell accordingly to address individual caller data.
  • the data may be tested before transfer to the cell register 34 with the interface being conditioned on the test. That is, as indicated above, a customer may be limited to a specified number of order calls with regard to a particular catalog or offer. Thus, the interface may involve several tests, one of which is preliminary to setting the addressed customer data in the register 34 . An example will illustrate.
  • An offering may be made to potential customers regarding goods or services in limited amounts. For example, customers might be offered one or two purchases, but no more. Accordingly, the data cells for such customers would be set to allow only one or two purchases as specified. Specifically, for example, the field 81 (key number) for each potential customer key number would be set at “one”. Upon the occurrence of a call by a customer, an individual associated data cell would be addressed using the caller's telephone number provided by automatic number identification (ANI) equipment. From within the master control and memory unit 24 , the field 81 (key number) of the cell would be checked by the consumable key limit unit 27 .
  • ANI automatic number identification
  • the call would be rejected by the active audio response unit AR 1 -ARn. Otherwise, the call would be accepted and the consumable key number would be incremented or decremented by the unit 27 .
  • the data cell With the acceptance of the call, the data cell would be set in a cell register of a selected interface format processor, e.g. processor IP 1 , register 34 (FIG. 2). The direct interface would then proceed.
  • a selected interface format processor e.g. processor IP 1 , register 34 (FIG. 2).
  • the direct interface would then proceed.
  • the voice generator 44 (FIG. 2, upper left) is actuated by the process controller 46 to greet the caller.
  • the voice generator 44 might cue the caller as follows: “Thank you for calling XYZ COMPANY telephone merchandise service. Please push three buttons on your telephone to identify your first item by catalog number.”
  • the customer next is prompted to digitally enter data indicating choices of color, size, special code and so on.
  • the gate control 66 actuates the gating network 62 in synchronism with the cue to the second position so that the item data is provided through the contact C 2 to the field 84 .
  • the caller may identify several item designations which are registered in the item fields 82 and 84 of the cell register 34 . Note that items are checked in relation to inventory by the controller 46 acting through the unit 24 (FIG. 1) and the associated inventory look-up table 25 .
  • the voice generator 44 is actuated by the controller 46 to complete the interface as predetermined.
  • the process controller 46 has the caller's telephone number from an ANI communication from the facility CO which addressed the caller's data record. Various information then may be confirmed or supplemented in the register 34 . Note that the system as disclosed is adaptable to accommodate: first-time callers, callers of record and callers with out-dated records. Various payment arrangements for goods or services also are available.
  • the operation of the controller is to cue for the method of payment. Specifically, for example, the caller might be cued: “If you wish this order billed to your XYZ COMPANY credit card, please push ‘1’. Otherwise, push ‘2’.” Accordingly, with a credit card confirmation, the process controller 46 sets the card type in the field 96 advancing the process of FIG. 3 to proceed from the decision block 90 .
  • the voice generator 44 (FIG. 2) states a request (cues) for the number. For example: “Please use your telephone buttons to key in your card number.”
  • the gating network 62 and the status register 56 are set. Accordingly, signals representative of the digits forming the card number are received through the line 42 (FIG. 2, upper left), the multiplexer 52 and the line L 0 to the gating network 62 (lower left).
  • the gate control 66 is set by the process controller 46 , the movable contact 64 dwells on the stationary contact C 4 , and the customer's number is stored in the field 98 .
  • the customer's number may be utilized. In either event, individual data cells are addressed for record data to load other fields, e.g. fields 150 , 152 , 154 , etc. Generally, if a record for the customer's card is located in the unit 24 (FIG. 1), the information is returned via the bus 36 (FIG. 2, right center) and registered in the cell register 34 . Alternatively, the data may be confirmed by the caller and entered through the gating network 62 .
  • the data includes the expiration date of the card placed in field 150 , the customer's telephone number set in field 152 and the customer's name and address set in the field 154 .
  • the telephone number may be useful if a live interface is prompted or, as indicated above, it may be used as an address to locate a particular file or data.
  • the location of a customer's record prompts the controller 46 (FIG. 2) to actuate the gate control 66 setting the movable contact 64 to dwell in sequence at the contacts C 5 , C 6 and C 7 .
  • the customer's card expiration date, telephone number and address are supplied to the fields 150 , 152 and 154 .
  • the customer's address is supplied from the controller 46 to the voice generator 44 . Consequently, as indicated above, the caller might be prompted as follows: “According to our records, you are Mr. John Henry with a billing and shipping address of 10 Beverly, Los Angeles, Calif. If our information is correct, please push ‘1’; if not, please push ‘2’.” This operation is symbolized in FIG. 3 by the block 106 (right center).
  • the confirmation of a customer can be broken into even smaller communications if desired.
  • the status register 56 is set to manifest state “1” indicating that control signals are being cued. Consequently, the response from the caller is passed through the multiplexer to line L 1 and then to the process controller 46 .
  • the process controller 46 supplies the address data of record to the field 154 .
  • the controller 46 actuates the gate control 66 to set the movable contact 64 at the stationary contact C 10 .
  • the operation of completing the record then involves providing an acknowledgement number through the contact C 10 to the field.
  • the acknowledgement number also may be communicated to the caller by the process controller actuating the voice generator 44 .
  • an acknowledgement number is set in the field 156 and is vocalized to the caller.
  • it may be confirmed, e.g. “Please repeat your acknowledgement number.” Note that callers in a winning or other special set or subset may be identified by coded acknowledgement numbers.
  • the movable contact 64 is actuated to engage the stationary contact C 11 through which the process controller 46 supplies a signal indicative of binary “0” manifesting that the order data does not include an audio component, i.e. the voice fields 126 are blank.
  • the contents of the cell register 34 is transferred through the bus 36 to the master control and memory unit 24 .
  • subsequent processing may involve subsequent operations to: place related calls, fill orders and bill charges.
  • the manually attended terminals AT 1 -ATn may be actuated to control the processor 33 through the coupling unit 31 .
  • the processor 33 is operated in cooperation with the unit 24 to process individual orders. Note that the audio data stored in cells is flagged for selection as explained in detail below.
  • the oral statement of the caller's address is provided as an analog signal which may be variously transmitted through the communication facility CO (FIG. 1) to ultimately reach the line 38 (path 42 ) (FIG. 2, upper left).
  • the representative analog signal is supplied through the multiplexer 52 and the line L 2 to the audio signal processor 60 which may variously process the data and encodes the analog signals in a digital format. Accordingly, digital signals indicative of the caller's correct address are registered in the fields 126 of the cell register 34 .
  • the customer's record is complete in the cell register 34 and the process proceeds to the operations represented by block 108 (FIG. 3, right center). Specifically, an acknowledgement number is revealed and stored in the field 156 of the cell register 34 . As audio signals are involved, the field 112 registers a binary “1” indicative of that class of data cell (audio).
  • data words stored in the cell register 34 may be variously segregated or processed based on their classification as registered in the field 112 . For example, it may be desirable to segregate class “1” and class “0” orders for distinct off-line processing. In that regard, as class “0” orders have no audio data, they involve somewhat simpler process operations in that no human action is involved. Conversely, class “1” orders in the disclosed system are contemplated to involve human processing to convert spoken words to digital data.
  • the process controller 46 along with the lines 48 and 50 are linked to one of the attended terminals AT 1 -ATn enabling an operator to speak directly with a caller and concurrently set data into the data cell register 34 through the controller 46 .
  • the attended terminals AT 1 -ATn include a display and, accordingly, the controller 46 cooperatively drives the display with the cell register to indicate the state of the interface and the caller's data.
  • a live interface is prompted from several situations.
  • One case involves the caller depressing the “*” button.
  • the caller does not have credit with the XYZ COMPANY (not a local account)
  • a live interface is prompted.
  • an alternative credit card as a bank card may be employed. Accordingly, data is received in either an audio or non-audio form.
  • the field 96 may store an indication of an acceptable bank card.
  • fields 96 , 98 and 150 respectively store a bank card type, the bank card number and the expiration date. It may be further advisable to store the caller's telephone number in field 152 .
  • the caller's name and address will be stored; and in that regard, either the field 154 may be utilized by the operator at an attended terminal or an audio record may be keyed for storage in one or more fields 126 .
  • the system proceeds as explained above with the final steps of indicating an acknowledgement number and designating the class of the order. Thereafter, as in other examples, the contents of the cell register is returned to the master control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) for subsequent processing.
  • class “1” orders also may be stored, as in a processor IP 1 -IPn until completed (without audio data).
  • the system accomplishes telephonic interfaces utilizing various operations in accordance with control signals prompted by cues from a voice generator. That is, the system alternately may cue a caller to provide: digital data, control data or audio data. Concurrent with the cueing operations, the system assumes a state for compatibly processing responses. Specifically, if control signals are cued, the system is controlled accordingly. If data signals are cued, the system registers such data in either an audio or non-audio format. Furthermore, depending upon the detailed operation of the system, order data is developed as in individual cells for subsequent off-line processing. Individual packets or cells of such data are classified as disclosed above, and such classifications may be effectively utilized to segregate or perform various other processing operations.
  • the system of the present invention may be effectively used in telephonic interfaces to accommodate flexibility and control by a caller.
  • the disclosed embodiment is directed to a sales operation, it will be apparent that the system may be variously embodied to accommodate any of a variety of telephonic interface operations, e.g. poll, game format, information service and so on.
  • the disclosed embodiment comprises specific elements and configurations, any of a variety of structure might well be utilized. Accordingly, the scope hereof is deemed to be as set forth in the claims below.

Abstract

In an audio-digital telephone interface system, selective operation prompts a caller with oral instructions to provide: digital control signals, digital data signals (numeric) or audio signals. Inbound and outbound operations are involved and inbound callers are qualified as by automatic number identification (ANI) signals and consumable key operation. A data cell is loaded in accordance with an operating program and the resulting data packet is flagged depending on the presence of audio signals. Data packets are returned to storage, as for subsequent addressing to call up, as to process or cue a caller. The illustrative format receives and organizes order data for goods or services or to isolate a subset or a sub-subset of callers.

Description

  • This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 481,403 filed Feb. 20, 1990 and entitled “Voice-Data Telephonic Control System” which was a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 312,792 filed Feb. 21, 1989 and entitled “Voice-Data Telephonic Control System” which was a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 194,258 filed May 16, 1988 and entitled “Telephonic-Interface Statistical Analysis System”, issued Jul. 4, 1989 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,845,739, which was a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 018,244 filed Feb. 24, 1987 and entitled “Statistical Analysis System For Use With Public Communication Facility”, issued Dec. 20, 1988 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,968, which was a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 753,299 filed Jul. 10, 1985 and entitled “Statistical Analysis System For Use With Public Communication Facility”, now abandoned.[0001]
  • BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • As the use of computer techniques has steadily grown, related telephonic communication techniques also have expanded. In that regard, telephone systems have been developed for effectively transmitting digital data in forms commonly utilized by computer apparatus. At a more personal level, the traditional push buttons of telephone instruments have been utilized to provide digital signals at a remote location for both data and control functions. Consequently, various operations have been performed. [0002]
  • In the typical operation of a telephone instrument as a digital input device, voice messages prompt callers to provide data and control signals by actuating the alphanumeric buttons of a conventional telephone. Detailed forms of such systems have been proposed in association with computers to provide various services, and one such system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,968 issued Dec. 20, 1988, to Ronald A. Katz from an application Ser. No. 07/018,244 filed Feb. 24, 1987. [0003]
  • Although traditional systems for interfacing an individual person at a telephone terminal with a computer or data processor have been effective, such systems have been somewhat limited in application. In general, the present invention is based on recognizing the need in such systems to accommodate voice signals as to provide recorded audio data, as for subsequent use. Accordingly, the system of the present invention accommodates a caller to identify digital control signals, digital data signals and audio signals, all in an organized format as to accomplish a record for subsequent processing or use. [0004]
  • To consider a specific example, systems have been proposed in the past for interfacing individual telephone terminals with computers, as for sales applications. Individual callers might dial to accomplish a computer interface, then provide ordering data by actuating the telephone terminal buttons to specify goods or services. One such system is disclosed in a co-pending related patent application entitled “Telephone Interface Statistical Analysis System”, filed May 16, 1988, and bearing a Ser. No. 07/194,258 (now U.S. Pat. No. 4,845,739) and a related prior application, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,968. In the use of such systems, the need is recognized for improved capability regarding audio data. [0005]
  • In general, the present invention comprises a telephone computer interface system accommodating digital and vocal telephonic communication, the system being expanded to accommodate and flag audio data distinct from digital data. In using the disclosed system, either outbound or inbound calling operations attain an interface with a central data processing system. Depending on the course of communication during the interface, various states are implemented for the central system to receive and identify: digital control signals, digital data signals and audio or voice signals. Somewhat conventional operation may involve automated vocal communications to cue the caller and keypad digital communications from the caller. Generally, data received from the caller is set in memory for subsequent use or processing. The data may be addressed as to cue a remote terminal or to isolate a set or subset. Callers may be qualified by automatic number identification (ANI) signals checked against an assigned consumable key number. Thus, the system accommodates flexible control and data accumulation (including cued audio) to accommodate any of various specific interface applications or formats.[0006]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • In the drawings, which constitute a part of this specification, an exemplary embodiment exhibiting various objectives and features hereof is set forth. Specifically: [0007]
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system constructed in accordance with the present invention; [0008]
  • FIG. 2 is a block and schematic diagram of a component in the system of FIG. 1; and [0009]
  • FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the operating process of the structure represented in FIG. 2.[0010]
  • DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT
  • As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein. However, physical communication systems, data formats and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms, some of which may be quite different from those of the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative; yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the scope of the present invention. [0011]
  • Referring initially to FIG. 1, a series of remote terminals T[0012] 1-Tn (telephone instruments) are represented (left). The terminals T1-Tn may be similar and accordingly only the terminal T1 is shown in any detail. The indicated terminals T1-Tn represent the multitude of telephone terminals existing in association with a communication facility CO which may comprise a comprehensive public telephone network.
  • The communication facility CO, accommodating the individual terminals T[0013] 1-Tn, is coupled to a central processing station CS generally indicated by a dashed-line block. Within the station CS as illustrated, processors are provided to interface the terminals T1-Tn so as to accomplish a desired operating format, and accordingly accumulate data relating to individual callers.
  • Calls to and from the terminals T[0014] 1-Tn are individually processed in accordance with a specific format to accomplish a data cell or packet. For example, the objective of a call may be to order an item of merchandise to implement a mail-order operation. Similarly, a service may be specified and ordered. Accordingly, the interface accomplishes data as a cell for processing the order. In other exemplary formats, the system may function for public polls, lotteries, auctions, promotions and games.
  • At any instant of time, the collective interface involving the communication system CO and the processing station CS may involve several thousand calls. Accordingly, the station CS may take the form of a sizeable computer or mainframe capable of simultaneously controlling smaller units or directly operating to process many calls involving individual interfaces. Although numerous possible configurations are available, for purposes of explanation, the central station CS of the disclosed embodiment includes a control unit functioning with a plurality of audio response units and associated individual processors and attended terminals. [0015]
  • Essentially, the system of the present invention accumulates data from the remote terminals T[0016] 1-Tn in cells, which data may include audio data and digital data (numerical) flagged or otherwise distinguished for subsequent expedient processing. Accordingly, the system enables a person at a terminal (T1-Tn) to provide data in both audio and digital forms. For audio transmissions, the person utilizes the telephone handpiece (microphone) while for digital communications, the person utilizes the telephone push buttons (keypad).
  • Considering the exemplary telephone terminal T[0017] 1 of FIG. 1 in greater detail, a handpiece 10 (microphone and earphone) is shown along with a panel 12 provided with a rectangular array of individual push buttons 14 in a conventional configuration. Of course, the handpiece 10 accommodates analog signals while the panel 12 is a digital apparatus. As disclosed in detail below, a person is informed or cued through the handpiece 10 (earphone) to provide data in accordance with a specific format. In accordance herewith, the person may provide signals utilizing either the buttons 14 or the handpiece 10 (microphone).
  • In conventional telephone structures, alphabetic and numeric designations are provided on the [0018] buttons 14. For example, several of the buttons 14 carry three letters along with a decimal digit. Specifically, the button designated with the numeral “2” also carries the letters “A”, “B” and “C”. Thus, the buttons 14 encompass: the numerals “0-9”, the symbols “*” and “#” and the alphabet except for the letters “Q” and “Z”.
  • At this stage, some specific aspects of the communication interface are noteworthy. Essentially, by telephonic dialing, the communication facility CO is coupled selectively to certain of the terminals T[0019] 1-Tn through audio response units AR1-ARn. For example, as a result of dialing a specific telephone number at one of the remote terminal units T1-Tn, the communication facility CO couples the actuated terminal through one line of several sets of lines LS1-LSn to one of the audio response units AR1-ARn. Note that automatic call distributors may be utilized as well known in the art.
  • From the audio response units AR[0020] 1-ARn, incoming lines 20 are received through a coupler 22 for communication with individual interface format processors IP1-IPn. Note that the interface processors IP1-IPn are illustrated as separate and distinct units; however, as mentioned above, it is to be recognized that various structural processing combinations may be used, based on time sharing, parallel processing, compiler techniques, bus technologies and other well known computer techniques to accomplish the objective processing as explained in detail below. In some instances, certain of the structure and functions of the processors IP1-IPn can be variously incorporated in the units AR1-ARn. Of course, specific arrangements and configurations will likely be implemented based on available hardware and software development.
  • The [0021] coupler 22 is also connected to a master control and memory unit 24 which is associatively coupled to a look-up table 25, a consumable key limit unit 27, a subset counter 29 and through a crossbar 26 to each of the processors IP1-IPn. Note that both the function and structure of crossbars for selectively interconnecting multiple parallel structures are well known in the computer arts. For a detailed description of crossbars, see the book, “High-Performance Computer Architecture” by Harold S. Stone, published by Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, 1987.
  • The [0022] coupler 22 essentially functions as a switch as well known in the prior art to establish line couplings from one line of an audio response unit (AR1-ARn) to one of the interface processors IP1-IPn. The operation of the coupler 22 is implemented in association with the control unit 24 which may be programmed to execute control and memory functions as detailed below. Again, the division of functions between the unit 24, the units AR1-ARn and the processors IP1-IPn may vary considerably depending on available structures and techniques. The disclosed system is merely exemplary in that regard.
  • Generally, in a sales format, the interface processors IP[0023] 1-IPn receive basic record data from the unit 24 and order data from the terminals T1-Tn. In a multiple format configuration, program data may be stored in the processors IP1-IPn or supplied from the unit 24. In any event, in accordance with a program or format, a packet of data is collected in a processor IP1-IPn during an interface. After being organized in a cell and flagged, the data packet is returned from an interface processor IP1-IPn to the unit 24 for subsequent use or processing. For outbound operation, the unit 24 functions as an automatic dialer to attain desired connections through the units AR1-ARn in accordance with stored telephone numbers.
  • Again, considering a sales format, typically individual data cells or packets of data are organized and returned to the [0024] unit 24 for processing which ultimately involves performing a service or instructions for shipping merchandise and billing. In some formats, during the course of interfaces with certain callers, the need may arise for person-to-person oral communication. In accordance herewith, to accommodate that need, the interface processors IP1-IPn may be individually associated through a coupler 30 with an attended terminal AT1-ATn. For processing operations as mentioned above, the terminals AT1-ATn may be connected through a coupling unit 31 to an off-line processor 33, also connected to the control and memory unit 24.
  • Recapitulating to some extent, the general operation of the system of FIG. 1 involves the development and maintenance of individual data packets or cells drawn from the [0025] unit 24 to the individual processors IP1-IPn during interface communications with individual remote terminals T1-Tn. In the exemplary format as treated below, each data cell manifests a merchandise order identifying specific goods, a specific customer, a shipping destination and other related data. In accordance herewith, data in individual cells may include flagged audio data. In any event, the operation of the system involves the organized accumulation of mail-order data (some of which may be audio) in the unit 24 addressable for subsequent use by the processor 33, as to implement billing and delivery of services or merchandise.
  • As explained in detail below, the data cells (manifesting individual orders) are developed in the individual processors IP[0026] 1-IPn. Structural details of an exemplary processor are shown in FIG. 2 and will now be considered. A cell register 34 (FIG. 2, center) is divided into fields to illustrate an exemplary data format. Specifically, the cell register 34 defines several separate fields for data components manifesting an exemplary order. Record data for some of the fields may reside in the master control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) before the occurrence of any telephone interface. However, other fields are loaded or modified during the period of the interface with a caller at one of the remote terminals T1-Tn providing elements of the data.
  • Generally, variously accumulated record data is initially loaded into the cell register [0027] 34 from the control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) through a bus 36 (FIG. 2, right center) that is connected through the crossbar 26 (FIG. 1) to the unit 24. The same bus 36 accommodates movement of a completed or modified data cell to memory (in the unit 24).
  • As suggested above, some fields in the [0028] cell register 34, as those pertaining to a specific merchandise order, are always loaded by data resulting from the interface and received through a two-way line 38 (FIG. 2, upper left). That is, a caller is steered through the interface interval, being prompted or cued to provide responses selectively in the form of: (1) digital control signals, (2) digital data signals or (3) audio signals. Also, in certain applications digital ANI telephone signals may be received through the line 38 indicating the telephone dialing number of the caller. Specifically, ANI (automatic number identification) signals may be provided from the communication facility CO (FIG. 1) automatically indicating the telephone number for the calling terminal T1-Tn. The ANI signals may be treated either as control or data signals on being received through an audio response unit (AR1-ARn, FIG. 1), the coupler 22 and the line 38 (FIG. 2).
  • Generally, control signals in the [0029] line 38 are utilized for the controlled registration of digital data signals and audio signals as appropriate to each specific interface. Of course, the data and audio signals also are received through the line 38.
  • For convenience of illustration and explanation, the [0030] line 38, connected to the coupler 22 (FIG. 1) is shown to include two separate communication paths, specifically an outgoing path 40 (FIG. 2) and an incoming path 42. of course in practice, the two paths would comprise a common two-way or bidirectional line. For outbound calls, the master control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) supplies dialing signals through the coupler 22 and a unit (AR1-ARn) to the facility CO. As indicated above, an automatic dialer structure is incorporated as well known in the art. On completion of a connection to a terminal T1-Tn, the unit 24 actuates a processor IP1-IPn through the crossbar 26. Thus, an addressed data packet is used to advise, inform or cue a person at a connected remote terminal (T1-Tn). In some cases, for example inbound calls, an audio response unit AR1-ARn may perform some preliminary operations, after which calls are referred to a processor IP1-IPn through the coupler. Usually, coupling a remote terminal T1-Tn to a processor IP1-IPn initiates an interface format.
  • During an interface operation, as with the processor IP[0031] 1 for example, the connection through the coupler 22 and the audio response unit AR1-ARn remains active. For example, the outgoing communication path 40 (FIG. 2) is provided with voice signals from a voice generator 44 that is in turn controlled by a processor controller 46. Generally, the controller 46 may possess some substantial computing capability along with storage. Accordingly, it responds to an operating program as disclosed in detail below to accomplish an interface format.
  • The outgoing communication path [0032] 40 of the line 38 also is connected to one of the attended terminals AT1-ATn. The signal route in FIG. 2 is to the path 40 either from a line 48 or the voice generator 44. With respect to the incoming path 42, signals are provided through a multiplexer 52 to provide various lines L0, L1, L2 or L3 exclusively active. The line L3 or line 50 is coupled to an attended terminal AT1-ATn (FIG. 1). As indicated above and explained in detail below, under various circumstances, signals from persons at terminals are variously transferred, including transfer to an attended terminal (AT1-ATn, FIG. 1). Thus, the status of an interface may vary, one status or state designating an interconnection of one of the remote terminals T1-Tn with an attended terminal, that is, one of the terminals AT1-ATn.
  • The status of an interface with a caller is indicated by a status register [0033] 56 (FIG. 2, upper right) which is controlled by the process controller 46 and in turn controls the multiplexer 52. The status register 56 basically comprises a two-bit counter capable of indicating four states to control the lines L0-L3 from the multiplexer 52, as indicated below.
    Active
    State Operation Multiplexer Line
    “0” Cue data signals (digital) L0
    “1” Cue control signals (digital) L1
    “2” Cue audio signals L2
    “3” Actuate live interface L3
  • The states “0”, “1” and “2” indicate operations to prompt persons to provide signals digitally. Alternatively, any of the states may be used merely to inform a person where no response is to be received. As indicated above, in the state “3”, the caller speaks directly with an operator to provide information in an audio form. The other states accommodate computer interface signals. Implementing the different states, the multiplexer [0034] 52 (controlled by the status register 56) selectively activates one of the four lines L0, L1, L2 or L3 to receive a specific class of signals from the path 42.
  • Generally, the control signals received in the line L[0035] 1 are applied to actuate the controller 46. The data or information signals received in the lines L0 and L2 are provided to the cell register 34 through a gating network 62 (lower left). Several connections are involved. The line L3 is coupled to an attended terminal (AT1-ATn, FIG. 1) through a line 50.
  • The line L[0036] 0 (digital data) is connected to the controller 46 and to a movable contact 64 of the gating network 62. The line L1 is connected only to the controller 46. The line L2 (audio) is connected through an audio processor 60 to the controller 46 and to the movable contact 64.
  • The gating network [0037] 62 is illustrated in an electromechanical form for ease of explanation with the movable contact 64 displaceable to engage each of the stationary contacts C1-C11 in sequence. However, in an actual embodiment, a well known analogous solid-state configuration would be employed.
  • In accordance with the symbolic representation of the gating network [0038] 62, the movable contact 64 is driven by a gate control 66 to sequentially encounter stationary contacts C1-C11 which are coupled to fields of the register 34. A mechanical drive connection is indicated by a dashed line 67, the gate control 66 being actuated by the process controller 46 as described in detail below. Somewhat more specifically, the operations directed by the controller 46 are illustrated in FIG. 3 and will now be considered in detail.
  • The flow diagram of FIG. 3 implements an exemplary mail-order format for a sales organization with existing “local” customers of record (identified by telephone number, credit card number, etc.) acceptable for credit transactions. To pursue an example, customers are provided with a “special” catalog from which a single order may be placed for each telephone terminal. Thus, customers are assigned a consumable key of “one” to accordingly limit ordering. [0039]
  • Calls from customers are coupled through an audio response unit, e.g. unit AR[0040] 1 (FIG. 1) and the coupler 22 to the master control unit 24. In one format, the customer is recognized by a telephone number manifest by automatic number-identification (ANI) signals. Customer data is fetched to the consumable key limit unit 27 based on the calling telephone number. The call is then tested to proceed conditionally on the key not being previously used or consumed. The test is illustrated by a block 77 (FIG. 3) and is executed by the unit 27 with reference to a field 81 of the data packet as shown in the register 34 (FIG. 2). If there has been a previous call, the instant call is-terminated as indicated. Otherwise, the data cell is fetched from the unit 24 to a cell register, e.g. register 34 (FIG. 2). The operation is indicated by the block 79 (FIG. 3). Thus, calls to a specific format number are limited to “one”. Of course, consumable keys may be set to accomplish any desired limitation with respect to a specific format. Format interface operation follows approval of a call.
  • At the beginning of an interface operation, the processor involved, e.g. processor IP[0041] 1 (FIG. 2) is set to state “0” as indicated by the block 80 (FIG. 3). That state, also indicated by the status register 56 (FIG. 2) controls the processor 46 so that a caller is cued for digital data signals to be formed by use of the buttons 14 at the caller's remote terminal. Specifically, the caller might be cued: “Please indicate your first item by keying in the three-digit catalog number.” The audio is reproduced at the terminal.
  • As will be described in detail below, identification for an item is stored in a field [0042] 82 (FIG. 2) of the cell register 34. Similarly, color, size and code data for selected items are cued and stored in a field 84. Of course, other items may be ordered with the consequence that they are recorded in further of the fields 82 and 84 of the cell register 34. The operation also is represented by the block 86 in FIG. 3 and might be cued: “Please indicate your next item or push button ‘3’ to indicate you are finished.”
  • At the conclusion of the item ordering, the system sets state “1” (cue control) in the status register [0043] 56 (FIG. 2) as indicated by block 88 (FIG. 3). Note that the state “1” also may be attained by a period of silence from the caller. In any event, the subsequent operation involves a junction, as indicated by the block 90, a determination to be made by whether or not the caller is a customer of record, e.g. “local account?” As an example, the caller might be cued: “If you have a local account, please push button ‘1’; if not, please push button ‘2’.” The resulting digital control signals set the course for subsequent operations as implemented by the controller 46. Of course, the indication may be confirmed or originated from the data packet.
  • If a caller has a local account, for example, implying that the caller's address is in the data packet, the system status is reset to state “0” (cue data) as indicated by [0044] block 92. In that event, the system resumes the accumulation of non-vocal digital data by cueing for the card number as indicated by the block 94. Note that with the indication of a local account, a designating code (customer I.D. number) is set in the field 98 of the cell register. Concurrently, the expiration date for the customer's account or card is stored in the field 150. These operations are indicated by the block 100 (FIG. 3).
  • Pursuing the example, the system is again set in state “1” to cue for control signals as indicated by the block [0045] 104 (FIG. 3). Specifically, as indicated by a junction block 104, a search is made for the customer's identification number. If the number is found, another control signal is cued. Specifically, as indicated by the block 106, the customer's address is verified. If the proper address is confirmed to be registered for the customer, the record is completed as indicated by the block 108. This operation, performed by the unit 46, may involve inventory verification or other internal operations as described in detail below.
  • Next, the system operation progresses-to an internal decision block [0046] 110 to test whether or not audio data has been received. Essentially, the audio test simply queries whether or not the status register 56 has been set to manifest the existence of the states “2” or “3” to enter audio data. Control in that regard is by the controller 46 (FIG. 2).
  • In the example as treated to this point, neither states “2” nor “3” has occurred. However, depending on the determination, a field [0047] 112 (FIG. 2) of the cell register 34 is set with one of the two possibilities. If audio data had been entered, the block 114 would indicate a class designation of binary “1” in the field 112. Conversely, a class representative “0” is entered in the field 112 for orders involving no audio data. The operation next proceeds to record the loaded cell in memory as indicated by the block 116.
  • The operation as outlined to this point has covered routine orders, i.e. customers with local accounts placing orders that can be processed entirely on the basis of digital control signals and digital data signals (no audio) entered digitally as outlined above. The accommodation of other orders-involving audio communication will now be considered. [0048]
  • Generally, audio operations involve either the introduction of a person-to-person interface, as for example for a new customer, or audio signal interface, as for example to record a new address for an existing customer. During any format operation, these operations may be actuated variously in combination with digital data control and recording. Such operations may involve proceeding through a block [0049] 118 (FIG. 3, upper left); however, other possibilities exist. One such possibility occurs when a caller indicates that his record address is not correct. Specifically in that regard, the junction block 106 (FIG. 3, right center) queries “verify address?” The cue or prompt might take the form: “According to our records, you are Mr. John Henry with a billing and shipping address of 10 Beverly, Los Angeles, Calif.” A “no” response results in another test as indicated by the block 120 questioning whether or not the present situation is merely a case of an altered address. If so, the system proceeds from a “yes” determination of the block 120 to obtain an audio record of the new address. As indicated by the block 122, state “2” is set and the caller is cued to state his new address as indicated by the block 124. The address is processed by the audio processor 60 (FIG. 2) and stored as audio data as indicated by the block 126 (FIG. 3). The operation then proceeds on the basis of a complete record as indicated by the block 108. Note that in this instance audio data is registered in the cell 34 (FIG. 2) specifically in voice fields 126 with the status register 56 (FIG. 2, upper left) indicating state “2”. Consequently, the junction block 110 (FIG. 3, lower right) indicates the presence of audio data with the result that the cell register 34 stores a class “1” bit to indicate the order data includes audio data.
  • Returning to the block [0050] 118 (FIG. 3, upper left) the operation for the case of a complex address change involves setting the operating state “3”, i.e. actuating a live interface. Other patterns also may lead to that operating sequence. For example, as suggested above, patterns for a line operator interface may include a non-local account or failure to locate account data. Also, throughout the interval of an interface, a caller may prompt a direct personal contact simply by depressing the telephone button designated “*”. Accordingly, as indicated in FIG. 3 at block 118, the occurrence of an asterisk signal (*) sets state “3” with operation proceeding from block 118 to activate a live interface as indicated by the block 128. The controller also may initiate state “3” as when meaningless data is received.
  • It is noteworthy that in an operating system, at any specific time, the demand for operators may exceed the number of operators. In that event, callers who cannot be accommodated are cued to punch in their telephone numbers and/or other data, and/or record via audio or numeric signals such data as to return calls when operators are available. The logic of such an operation is embodied in the [0051] block 128, “actuate live interface”.
  • When a live interface is actuated involuntarily for a caller in accordance with the system as described, an incentive is offered to keep the caller on the line. Specifically, the operation involves the step represented by the block [0052] 118 (FIG. 3) “set state ‘3’” and the counter 29 (FIG. 1, upper right). The master control unit 24 might actuate the unit AR1 to produce an audio message at the terminal T1 as follows: “You are being transferred to a live operator. Please stay on the line as you may win a valuable prize.” Immediately, the unit 24 increments the counter 29. If a specified count is attained, e.g. “1000”, the caller is awarded a premium.
  • In the example, if the caller is the thousandth to be transferred, the [0053] unit 24 actuates the unit AR1 to produce an announcement: “You have won a $100 credit for your next order. Please stand by.”
  • If the caller is not the one-thousandth to be transferred, as the transfer is made, the caller is informed: “Sorry, no winner, but here is our operator.” Essentially, transferred calls are a subset of callers, involuntarily transferred calls are a sub-subset and winners are still another subset. [0054]
  • Once an operator contact has been established several possibilities exist. One possibility is that the operator completes the contents of the cell register [0055] 34 (FIG. 2) without audio data. Essentially, an operator, active at one of the attended terminals, e.g. terminal AT1 (FIG. 1) has direct control of the cell register 34 (through the controller 46, FIG. 2) along with a data display and may be able to enter digital data manifesting the order. That possibility is indicated by the junction block 130 (FIG. 2), “digital data complete?”
  • If the data can be completed without audio record signals, the system operation proceeds to the block [0056] 108 (record complete). If the order record is not completed void of audio data, operation proceeds in state “3”. Again, under control of a live operator, the system may follow different paths to produce an ultimate determination of whether or not the audio data provides a complete order as indicated by the decision block 134. In that regard, an operator may perfect an order record on the basis of a bank credit card or a new customer accommodation. In any event, if an order is not completed, the operation simply terminates as indicated by the block 136. Conversely, a completed order returns operation to block 108 indicating the record is complete.
  • Exemplary operating patterns of interfaces are treated in detail below; however, after addressing individual caller data, the disclosed embodiment reproduces audio messages at the connected remote terminal. As the interface proceeds, the system cues a remote terminal, as with voice instructions to prompt: (1) digital control signals, (2) digital data signals and (3) audio signals for digital recording. Depending on the control signals, and the format, various patterns are selected with the objective of completing data in the cell register for subsequently processing the individual order. Of course, the processing generally includes data for shipping merchandise and billing the customer. [0057]
  • Consider now a detailed exemplary operation with the attendant operations in the structures of FIGS. 1 and 2 to accomplish the process as illustrated in FIG. 3. Preliminarily, assume the system is programmed to process orders from XYZ COMPANY for items of merchandise identified to customers as from catalog, newspaper or other advertising. Established customers of the XYZ COMPANY are identified by customer number, telephone number, name and address in the master control and memory unit [0058] 24 (FIG. 1). Assume initially that such a customer actuates the telephone terminal T1 to accomplish an interface through: the communication system CO, one of the audio response units AR1-ARn and the coupler 22 with one of the interface format processors IP1-IPn.
  • Note that the initial phase of an inbound call may be variously implemented. For example, call signals provided to an audio response unit AR[0059] 1-ARn may include representations of the caller's number and accordingly access a file on the caller. In accordance with automated number identification equipment designated ANI embodied in the communication facility CO, the caller's number may be provided in a digital form. The master control and memory unit 24 then accesses the caller's cell accordingly to address individual caller data. As described above, the data may be tested before transfer to the cell register 34 with the interface being conditioned on the test. That is, as indicated above, a customer may be limited to a specified number of order calls with regard to a particular catalog or offer. Thus, the interface may involve several tests, one of which is preliminary to setting the addressed customer data in the register 34. An example will illustrate.
  • An offering may be made to potential customers regarding goods or services in limited amounts. For example, customers might be offered one or two purchases, but no more. Accordingly, the data cells for such customers would be set to allow only one or two purchases as specified. Specifically, for example, the field [0060] 81 (key number) for each potential customer key number would be set at “one”. Upon the occurrence of a call by a customer, an individual associated data cell would be addressed using the caller's telephone number provided by automatic number identification (ANI) equipment. From within the master control and memory unit 24, the field 81 (key number) of the cell would be checked by the consumable key limit unit 27. If the consumable key number had been reduced to “zero” or incremented to “one” as programmed to indicate a previous call, the call would be rejected by the active audio response unit AR1-ARn. Otherwise, the call would be accepted and the consumable key number would be incremented or decremented by the unit 27.
  • With the acceptance of the call, the data cell would be set in a cell register of a selected interface format processor, e.g. processor IP[0061] 1, register 34 (FIG. 2). The direct interface would then proceed.
  • Recognizing the various possibilities, assume that at the outset of the direct interface, the voice generator [0062] 44 (FIG. 2, upper left) is actuated by the process controller 46 to greet the caller. For example, the voice generator 44 might cue the caller as follows: “Thank you for calling XYZ COMPANY telephone merchandise service. Please push three buttons on your telephone to identify your first item by catalog number.”
  • Signals representative of three decimal digits identifying an item are supplied from the line [0063] 42 (FIG. 2, upper left) to the multiplexer 52. As the status register 56 is in the “0” state, the signals pass from the multiplexer 52 through the moving contact 64 and the stationary contact C1 to be registered in field 82, “item”.
  • In the illustrative format, the customer next is prompted to digitally enter data indicating choices of color, size, special code and so on. For receiving such data, the [0064] gate control 66 actuates the gating network 62 in synchronism with the cue to the second position so that the item data is provided through the contact C2 to the field 84. Following a similar pattern, the caller may identify several item designations which are registered in the item fields 82 and 84 of the cell register 34. Note that items are checked in relation to inventory by the controller 46 acting through the unit 24 (FIG. 1) and the associated inventory look-up table 25.
  • When the caller indicates entry of the last item (as by an interval of silence or a signal) the [0065] voice generator 44 is actuated by the controller 46 to complete the interface as predetermined. In one format, the process controller 46 has the caller's telephone number from an ANI communication from the facility CO which addressed the caller's data record. Various information then may be confirmed or supplemented in the register 34. Note that the system as disclosed is adaptable to accommodate: first-time callers, callers of record and callers with out-dated records. Various payment arrangements for goods or services also are available.
  • As an alternative, consider a format using a customer's credit card number to access the file. Initially, the operation of the controller is to cue for the method of payment. Specifically, for example, the caller might be cued: “If you wish this order billed to your XYZ COMPANY credit card, please push ‘1’. Otherwise, push ‘2’.” Accordingly, with a credit card confirmation, the process controller [0066] 46 sets the card type in the field 96 advancing the process of FIG. 3 to proceed from the decision block 90.
  • Assuming the caller possesses a credit card of XYZ COMPANY, the voice generator [0067] 44 (FIG. 2) states a request (cues) for the number. For example: “Please use your telephone buttons to key in your card number.” In synchronism with the cue, the gating network 62 and the status register 56 are set. Accordingly, signals representative of the digits forming the card number are received through the line 42 (FIG. 2, upper left), the multiplexer 52 and the line L0 to the gating network 62 (lower left). As the gate control 66 is set by the process controller 46, the movable contact 64 dwells on the stationary contact C4, and the customer's number is stored in the field 98.
  • As an alternative to the caller's telephone number for addressing individual data, the customer's number may be utilized. In either event, individual data cells are addressed for record data to load other fields, [0068] e.g. fields 150, 152, 154, etc. Generally, if a record for the customer's card is located in the unit 24 (FIG. 1), the information is returned via the bus 36 (FIG. 2, right center) and registered in the cell register 34. Alternatively, the data may be confirmed by the caller and entered through the gating network 62.
  • In the disclosed embodiment, the data includes the expiration date of the card placed in [0069] field 150, the customer's telephone number set in field 152 and the customer's name and address set in the field 154. The telephone number may be useful if a live interface is prompted or, as indicated above, it may be used as an address to locate a particular file or data.
  • Considering the stage-by-stage confirming operation, the location of a customer's record prompts the controller [0070] 46 (FIG. 2) to actuate the gate control 66 setting the movable contact 64 to dwell in sequence at the contacts C5, C6 and C7. With confirmation, the customer's card expiration date, telephone number and address are supplied to the fields 150, 152 and 154. For example, the customer's address is supplied from the controller 46 to the voice generator 44. Consequently, as indicated above, the caller might be prompted as follows: “According to our records, you are Mr. John Henry with a billing and shipping address of 10 Beverly, Los Angeles, Calif. If our information is correct, please push ‘1’; if not, please push ‘2’.” This operation is symbolized in FIG. 3 by the block 106 (right center).
  • Of course, the confirmation of a customer can be broken into even smaller communications if desired. Note that in cueing the caller for confirmation, the [0071] status register 56 is set to manifest state “1” indicating that control signals are being cued. Consequently, the response from the caller is passed through the multiplexer to line L1 and then to the process controller 46.
  • If the caller indicates the information is correct, the process controller [0072] 46 supplies the address data of record to the field 154.
  • If there are no voice fields, the controller [0073] 46 actuates the gate control 66 to set the movable contact 64 at the stationary contact C10. The operation of completing the record then involves providing an acknowledgement number through the contact C10 to the field. The acknowledgement number also may be communicated to the caller by the process controller actuating the voice generator 44. Specifically, an acknowledgement number is set in the field 156 and is vocalized to the caller. Of course, as with other data from storage, it may be confirmed, e.g. “Please repeat your acknowledgement number.” Note that callers in a winning or other special set or subset may be identified by coded acknowledgement numbers.
  • As the final step in the sequence, the movable contact [0074] 64 is actuated to engage the stationary contact C11 through which the process controller 46 supplies a signal indicative of binary “0” manifesting that the order data does not include an audio component, i.e. the voice fields 126 are blank.
  • With the order complete, the contents of the [0075] cell register 34 is transferred through the bus 36 to the master control and memory unit 24. As indicated above, subsequent processing may involve subsequent operations to: place related calls, fill orders and bill charges. Specifically for example, referring to FIG. 1, the manually attended terminals AT1-ATn may be actuated to control the processor 33 through the coupling unit 31. The processor 33 is operated in cooperation with the unit 24 to process individual orders. Note that the audio data stored in cells is flagged for selection as explained in detail below.
  • To illustrate an alternate course in the process as generally described above, assume that the customer has a valid credit card record with the XYZ COMPANY; however, the address of record is incorrect. In processing an interface with such a customer, the operation would be as described above except that the junction represented by the block [0076] 106 (FIG. 3, right center) would determine an incorrect address. Consequently, with the system in state “1”, a control signal manifesting an incorrect address is supplied through the line L1 to the process controller 46 setting up an alternate operation. Specifically, the next step involves determining whether the verification failure may be corrected by a mere change of address as indicated by the block 120 (FIG. 3). To implement the operation, the process controller 46 (FIG. 2) actuates the voice generator 44 to cue the caller for control signals. For example, the cue may be stated: “If it is simply a matter of correcting or changing your address, please push ‘1’. Otherwise, push ‘2’.”
  • If the caller actuates the “1” button, a control signal is provided through the [0077] multiplexer 52 and the line L1 to the process controller 46 indicating a simple address correction. As a result, the process controller 46 sets the status register 56 to state “2” (see block 122, FIG. 3). As a consequence, in the system of FIG. 2, the input path 42 is coupled through the multiplexer 52 to the line L2 for supplying audio signals to the audio signal processor 60. Note that during this phase of operation, the process controller 46 actuates the gate controller 66 to set the movable contact 64 at the stationary contact C8 or C9 for recording audio data in the voice fields 126.
  • In the configuration as described, on cue, the oral statement of the caller's address is provided as an analog signal which may be variously transmitted through the communication facility CO (FIG. 1) to ultimately reach the line [0078] 38 (path 42) (FIG. 2, upper left). From the path 42, the representative analog signal is supplied through the multiplexer 52 and the line L2 to the audio signal processor 60 which may variously process the data and encodes the analog signals in a digital format. Accordingly, digital signals indicative of the caller's correct address are registered in the fields 126 of the cell register 34.
  • With the proper address stored, the customer's record is complete in the [0079] cell register 34 and the process proceeds to the operations represented by block 108 (FIG. 3, right center). Specifically, an acknowledgement number is revealed and stored in the field 156 of the cell register 34. As audio signals are involved, the field 112 registers a binary “1” indicative of that class of data cell (audio).
  • Note that data words stored in the [0080] cell register 34 may be variously segregated or processed based on their classification as registered in the field 112. For example, it may be desirable to segregate class “1” and class “0” orders for distinct off-line processing. In that regard, as class “0” orders have no audio data, they involve somewhat simpler process operations in that no human action is involved. Conversely, class “1” orders in the disclosed system are contemplated to involve human processing to convert spoken words to digital data.
  • To pursue another possible course of operation, assume that prompting or cueing a customer regarding his altered address does not involve a mere change. That is, assume the decision block [0081] 120 (FIG. 3, central) produced a control signal manifesting “no”, i.e. more than a mere change is involved and a live contact interface is desirable. Upon such an occurrence, state “3” is set as indicated by the block 118 (FIG. 3). As indicated above, several other possibilities may set the operation of state “3”. In any event, the status register 56 (FIG. 2) is set by the controller 46 to manifest state “3”. Consequently, the status register 56 controls the multiplexer 52 actuating communication through the line L3 to the lines 48 and 50 coupled to one of the attended terminals AT1-ATn (FIG. 1).
  • In the configuration of state “3”, the process controller [0082] 46 along with the lines 48 and 50 are linked to one of the attended terminals AT1-ATn enabling an operator to speak directly with a caller and concurrently set data into the data cell register 34 through the controller 46. Note that the attended terminals AT1-ATn include a display and, accordingly, the controller 46 cooperatively drives the display with the cell register to indicate the state of the interface and the caller's data. Thus, unconventional orders are processed with the system in state “3” as described above, the process flowing from the block 118 (FIG. 3, upper left).
  • Of course, numerous possibilities exist for completing an order with an attended terminal. In that regard, the contents and control of the [0083] cell register 34 is by the attended terminal and the problem may simply be one of communication in which case the order data may be completed either with or without audio data.
  • Recapitulating to some extent, a live interface is prompted from several situations. One case involves the caller depressing the “*” button. Also, if the caller does not have credit with the XYZ COMPANY (not a local account) a live interface is prompted. In that regard, an alternative credit card as a bank card may be employed. Accordingly, data is received in either an audio or non-audio form. [0084]
  • Consider a bank credit card order with reference to FIG. 2 in which the [0085] cell register 34 receives alternate information. In this situation, the field 96 may store an indication of an acceptable bank card. Specifically, fields 96, 98 and 150 respectively store a bank card type, the bank card number and the expiration date. It may be further advisable to store the caller's telephone number in field 152. The caller's name and address will be stored; and in that regard, either the field 154 may be utilized by the operator at an attended terminal or an audio record may be keyed for storage in one or more fields 126. If the order is completed by an operator, the system proceeds as explained above with the final steps of indicating an acknowledgement number and designating the class of the order. Thereafter, as in other examples, the contents of the cell register is returned to the master control and memory unit 24 (FIG. 1) for subsequent processing. Note, class “1” orders also may be stored, as in a processor IP1-IPn until completed (without audio data).
  • It may be seen that the system accomplishes telephonic interfaces utilizing various operations in accordance with control signals prompted by cues from a voice generator. That is, the system alternately may cue a caller to provide: digital data, control data or audio data. Concurrent with the cueing operations, the system assumes a state for compatibly processing responses. Specifically, if control signals are cued, the system is controlled accordingly. If data signals are cued, the system registers such data in either an audio or non-audio format. Furthermore, depending upon the detailed operation of the system, order data is developed as in individual cells for subsequent off-line processing. Individual packets or cells of such data are classified as disclosed above, and such classifications may be effectively utilized to segregate or perform various other processing operations. [0086]
  • In view of the above description, it will be apparent that the system of the present invention may be effectively used in telephonic interfaces to accommodate flexibility and control by a caller. Although the disclosed embodiment is directed to a sales operation, it will be apparent that the system may be variously embodied to accommodate any of a variety of telephonic interface operations, e.g. poll, game format, information service and so on. Furthermore, it will be apparent that while the disclosed embodiment comprises specific elements and configurations, any of a variety of structure might well be utilized. Accordingly, the scope hereof is deemed to be as set forth in the claims below. [0087]

Claims (21)

What is claimed is:
1. A voice-data control system for use with a communication facility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voice communication means for providing audio response signals and digital input means for providing digital response signals, said control system comprising:
cue means for cueing select ones of said terminals to prompt selective actuation of said voice communication means and said digital input means to provide responsive signals;
status means to selectively identify-response signals from each select terminal as digital control signals, digital data signals or audio signals;
memory means for storing individual caller data;
means for addressing individual caller data from said memory means in response to digital signals from said digital input means;
means for storing digital data signals from said digital input means as additional individual caller data;
control means for actuating said cue means and said status means to cue and identify audio signals, operation of said control means being conditioned on the failure of said means for addressing individual caller data to provide signals representative of caller data from said memory means; and
means for storing said audio signals representative of caller data in said memory means responsive to cueing by said cue means.
2. A system according to claim 1 further including interface processor means for receiving said audio signals representative of caller data and said digital signals for processing.
3. A system according to claim 2 wherein said interface processor includes means to isolate a subset of said callers.
4. A system according to claim 1 further including consumable key test means to qualify callers with respect to limited use.
5. A system according to claim 1 wherein said communication facility provides automatic number identification (ANI) signals and said status means selectively identifies said automatic number identification signals as digital control signals or digital data signals.
6. A system according to claim 5 further including consumable key test means to qualify callers with respect to limited use and wherein said callers are identified by said automatic number identification (ANI) signals.
7. A voice-data control system for use with a communication facility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voice communication means for providing audio response signals and digital input means for providing digital response signals, said control system comprising:
cue means for cueing select ones of said terminals to prompt selective actuation of said voice communication means and said digital input means to provide response signals;
status means to selectively identify responsive signals from each select terminal as digital control signals, digital data signals or audio signals;
control means implementing a stored program to control said cue means and said status means in accordance with said program and said digital control signals to prompt the provision of responsive signals from each select terminal in accordance with said status means;
means for storing responsive signals from said select terminals including digital data signals and audio signals as selectively identified by said status means; and
means for processing said digital signals to isolate a subset of said callers.
8. A system according to claim 7 further including consumable key test means to qualify callers with respect to limited use.
9. A system according to claim 7 wherein said means for processing includes interface processor means for receiving said audio signals representative of caller data and said digital signals for processing.
10. A system according to claim 7 further including a plurality of audio response units for interfacing said means for processing to said communication facility.
11. A system according to claim 7 wherein said communication facility provides automatic number identification (ANI) signals and said status means selectively identifies said automatic number identification signals as digital control signals or digital data signals.
12. A voice-data control system for use with a communication facility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voice communication means for providing audio response signals and digital input means for providing digital response signals, said control system comprising:
cue means for cueing select ones of said terminals to prompt selective actuation of said voice communication means and said digital input means to provide responsive signals;
status means to selectively identify responsive signals from each select terminal as digital control signals, digital data signals or audio signals;
control means implementing a stored program to control said cue means and said status means in accordance with said program and said digital control signals to prompt responsive signals from each select terminal in accordance with said status means, said program implementing an interface communication operation; and
means for selectively storing responsive signals from said select terminals including digital data signals and audio signals as selectively identified by said status means to indicate identification data and process data provided by said callers.
13. A system according to claim 12 wherein said means for storing signals stores signals representative of billing information.
14. A system according to claim 13 wherein said control means further implements inventory means to account for items.
15. A system according to claim 14 wherein said inventory means includes an inventory record of said items.
16. A system according to claim 12 wherein said communication facility provides automatic number identification (ANI) signals and said status means selectively identifies said automatic number identification signals as digital control signals or digital data signals.
17. A voice-data control system for use with a communication facility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voice communication means for providing audio signals and digital input means for providing digital response signals, said control system comprising:
cue means for cueing select ones of said terminals to prompt selective operation of said voice communication means and said digital input means at said terminals to provide responsive signals;
status means to selectively indicate responsive signals from each select terminal as digital control signals, digital data signals or audio signals;
control means for receiving said digital control signals for actuating said cue means and said status means to cue and identify responsive signals in relation to the operation selectively prompted by said cue means; and
means for storing and retrieving individual caller data, including said audio signals for reproducing audio caller voice data at a remote terminal.
18. A system according to claim 17 further including a plurality of audio response units for interfacing said means for processing to said communication facility.
19. A system according to claim 17 further including consumable key test means to qualify callers with respect to limited use.
20. A system according to claim 17 wherein said communication facility provides automatic number identification (ANI) signals and said status means selectively identifies said automatic number identification signals as digital control signals or digital data signals.
21. A voice-data control system for use with a communication facility including remote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remote terminals may comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voice communication means for providing audio signals and digital input means for providing digital response signals, said control system comprising:
cue means for cueing select ones of said terminals to prompt selective operation of said voice communication means and said digital input means at said terminals to provide responsive signals;
status means to selectively indicate responsive signals from each select terminal as digital control signals, digital data signals or audio signals;
test means for testing caller identification data for approval;
control means for receiving said digital control signals including automatic number identification (ANI) signals to actuate, said test means, said cue means and said status means in accordance with a predetermined program; and
means for storing individual caller data as received under control of said control means implementing said program.
US09/835,146 1985-07-10 2001-04-13 Voice-data telephonic interface control system Abandoned US20020039409A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/835,146 US20020039409A1 (en) 1985-07-10 2001-04-13 Voice-data telephonic interface control system

Applications Claiming Priority (9)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US75329985A 1985-07-10 1985-07-10
US07/018,244 US4792968A (en) 1985-07-10 1987-02-24 Statistical analysis system for use with public communication facility
US07/194,258 US4845739A (en) 1985-07-10 1988-05-16 Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US07/312,792 US5073929A (en) 1988-05-16 1989-02-21 Voice-data telephonic control system
US07/481,403 US5014298A (en) 1985-07-10 1990-02-20 Voice-data telephonic control system
US07/680,879 US5224153A (en) 1985-07-10 1991-04-05 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US08/058,452 US5359645A (en) 1985-07-10 1993-05-07 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US08/306,456 US6335965B1 (en) 1985-07-10 1994-09-14 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US09/835,146 US20020039409A1 (en) 1985-07-10 2001-04-13 Voice-data telephonic interface control system

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/306,456 Continuation US6335965B1 (en) 1985-07-10 1994-09-14 Voice-data telephonic interface control system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20020039409A1 true US20020039409A1 (en) 2002-04-04

Family

ID=46247335

Family Applications (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/058,452 Expired - Fee Related US5359645A (en) 1985-07-10 1993-05-07 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US08/306,456 Expired - Fee Related US6335965B1 (en) 1985-07-10 1994-09-14 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US08/482,218 Expired - Fee Related US6570967B2 (en) 1985-07-10 1995-06-07 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US09/835,146 Abandoned US20020039409A1 (en) 1985-07-10 2001-04-13 Voice-data telephonic interface control system

Family Applications Before (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/058,452 Expired - Fee Related US5359645A (en) 1985-07-10 1993-05-07 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US08/306,456 Expired - Fee Related US6335965B1 (en) 1985-07-10 1994-09-14 Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US08/482,218 Expired - Fee Related US6570967B2 (en) 1985-07-10 1995-06-07 Voice-data telephonic interface control system

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (4) US5359645A (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6700972B1 (en) 1999-08-25 2004-03-02 Verizon Corporate Services Group Inc. System and method for processing and collecting data from a call directed to a call center

Families Citing this family (113)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5359645A (en) * 1985-07-10 1994-10-25 First Data Corporation Inc. Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US20020085692A1 (en) * 1985-07-10 2002-07-04 Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US5649059A (en) * 1991-05-22 1997-07-15 Tendler Cellular, Inc. Alpha-numeric verbal scroll technique for use in an emergency location system
US8352400B2 (en) 1991-12-23 2013-01-08 Hoffberg Steven M Adaptive pattern recognition based controller apparatus and method and human-factored interface therefore
DE4401518A1 (en) * 1994-01-20 1995-07-27 Telefonbau & Normalzeit Gmbh Method for operating an automatic ordering system in communication switching systems
WO1995027360A1 (en) * 1994-03-31 1995-10-12 Citibank, N.A. Interactive voice response system
US5619554A (en) * 1994-06-08 1997-04-08 Linkusa Corporation Distributed voice system and method
US5646982A (en) * 1994-12-30 1997-07-08 Linkusa Corporation System and method for message delivery
US5546452A (en) 1995-03-02 1996-08-13 Geotel Communications Corp. Communications system using a central controller to control at least one network and agent system
US5918213A (en) * 1995-12-22 1999-06-29 Mci Communications Corporation System and method for automated remote previewing and purchasing of music, video, software, and other multimedia products
US6264560B1 (en) 1996-01-19 2001-07-24 Sheldon F. Goldberg Method and system for playing games on a network
US5823879A (en) 1996-01-19 1998-10-20 Sheldon F. Goldberg Network gaming system
US9530150B2 (en) * 1996-01-19 2016-12-27 Adcension, Llc Compensation model for network services
US20090012864A1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2009-01-08 Goldberg Sheldon F Compensation model for network services
US7305243B1 (en) 1996-02-28 2007-12-04 Tendler Cellular, Inc. Location based information system
US6519463B2 (en) 1996-02-28 2003-02-11 Tendler Cellular, Inc. Location based service request system
US6975708B1 (en) 1996-04-17 2005-12-13 Convergys Cmg Utah, Inc. Call processing system with call screening
US5867562A (en) * 1996-04-17 1999-02-02 Scherer; Gordon F. Call processing system with call screening
US5838774A (en) * 1996-07-01 1998-11-17 Bellsouth Corporation Telephone polling method
US5850428A (en) * 1996-07-17 1998-12-15 Day; Robert Allen Message management system and method
WO1998010307A1 (en) 1996-09-09 1998-03-12 Dennis Jay Dupray Location of a mobile station
US9134398B2 (en) 1996-09-09 2015-09-15 Tracbeam Llc Wireless location using network centric location estimators
US6236365B1 (en) 1996-09-09 2001-05-22 Tracbeam, Llc Location of a mobile station using a plurality of commercial wireless infrastructures
GB9620082D0 (en) 1996-09-26 1996-11-13 Eyretel Ltd Signal monitoring apparatus
GB2322762B (en) * 1997-02-26 2001-08-15 Ericsson Telefon Ab L M Rewarding telecommunication customers
US5857193A (en) * 1997-06-13 1999-01-05 Sutcliffe; Andrew B. Centralized audiotext polling system
US6052122A (en) * 1997-06-13 2000-04-18 Tele-Publishing, Inc. Method and apparatus for matching registered profiles
US5893111A (en) * 1997-06-13 1999-04-06 Sharon, Jr.; Paul A. Ad taking pagination information system
US6058367A (en) * 1997-06-13 2000-05-02 Tele-Publishing, Inc. System for matching users based upon responses to sensory stimuli
US6073105A (en) * 1997-06-13 2000-06-06 Tele-Publishing, Inc. Interactive personals online network method and apparatus
US6061681A (en) * 1997-06-30 2000-05-09 Movo Media, Inc. On-line dating service for locating and matching people based on user-selected search criteria
US5963951A (en) * 1997-06-30 1999-10-05 Movo Media, Inc. Computerized on-line dating service for searching and matching people
US5903630A (en) * 1997-06-30 1999-05-11 Movo Media, Inc. Method and apparatus for specifying alphanumeric information with a telephone keypad
US7062020B1 (en) 1998-06-08 2006-06-13 Convergys Cmg Utah Inc. System and apparatus for IVR port sharing
US6324276B1 (en) 1999-02-12 2001-11-27 Telera, Inc. Point-of-presence call center management system
US6011844A (en) 1998-06-19 2000-01-04 Callnet Communications Point-of-presence call center management system
US7904187B2 (en) 1999-02-01 2011-03-08 Hoffberg Steven M Internet appliance system and method
CN1350744A (en) * 1999-03-15 2002-05-22 声音技术通讯有限公司 Audio and data collaboration and coordination system
US7536002B1 (en) 1999-07-09 2009-05-19 Jpmorgan Chase Bank, National Association System and method of intelligent call routing for cross sell offer selection based on optimization parameters or account-level data
US6970915B1 (en) 1999-11-01 2005-11-29 Tellme Networks, Inc. Streaming content over a telephone interface
US7941481B1 (en) 1999-10-22 2011-05-10 Tellme Networks, Inc. Updating an electronic phonebook over electronic communication networks
US6807574B1 (en) 1999-10-22 2004-10-19 Tellme Networks, Inc. Method and apparatus for content personalization over a telephone interface
US7376586B1 (en) 1999-10-22 2008-05-20 Microsoft Corporation Method and apparatus for electronic commerce using a telephone interface
US6876991B1 (en) 1999-11-08 2005-04-05 Collaborative Decision Platforms, Llc. System, method and computer program product for a collaborative decision platform
JP2001222482A (en) * 2000-02-09 2001-08-17 Nec Infrontia Corp Pos system
US10641861B2 (en) 2000-06-02 2020-05-05 Dennis J. Dupray Services and applications for a communications network
US9875492B2 (en) 2001-05-22 2018-01-23 Dennis J. Dupray Real estate transaction system
US10684350B2 (en) 2000-06-02 2020-06-16 Tracbeam Llc Services and applications for a communications network
US7143039B1 (en) 2000-08-11 2006-11-28 Tellme Networks, Inc. Providing menu and other services for an information processing system using a telephone or other audio interface
US7502453B1 (en) 2000-08-02 2009-03-10 Cox Communications, Inc. Automated event ordering system and method
US6820802B2 (en) 2001-02-27 2004-11-23 American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. Online card activation system and method
ITTO20010179A1 (en) * 2001-02-28 2002-08-28 Cselt Centro Studi Lab Telecom SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACCESS TO MULTIMEDIA STRUCTURES.
WO2002087202A1 (en) * 2001-04-19 2002-10-31 British Telecommunications Public Limited Company Voice response system
US7110525B1 (en) 2001-06-25 2006-09-19 Toby Heller Agent training sensitive call routing system
US20030009691A1 (en) * 2001-07-06 2003-01-09 Lyons Martha L. Centralized clearinghouse for entitlement information
US20030046102A1 (en) * 2001-09-04 2003-03-06 Kombia, L.L.C. Systems and methods for maintaining consistency in interpersonal communications related to marketing operations
US8468027B2 (en) 2001-09-04 2013-06-18 Kombea Corporation Systems and methods for deploying and utilizing a network of conversation control systems
US7023979B1 (en) 2002-03-07 2006-04-04 Wai Wu Telephony control system with intelligent call routing
US7372952B1 (en) 2002-03-07 2008-05-13 Wai Wu Telephony control system with intelligent call routing
US6862343B1 (en) 2002-03-27 2005-03-01 West Corporation Methods, apparatus, scripts, and computer readable media for facilitating secure capture of sensitive data for a voice-based transaction conducted over a telecommunications network
US7403967B1 (en) 2002-06-18 2008-07-22 West Corporation Methods, apparatus, and computer readable media for confirmation and verification of shipping address data associated with a transaction
US9818136B1 (en) 2003-02-05 2017-11-14 Steven M. Hoffberg System and method for determining contingent relevance
US7676034B1 (en) 2003-03-07 2010-03-09 Wai Wu Method and system for matching entities in an auction
US7046777B2 (en) * 2003-06-02 2006-05-16 International Business Machines Corporation IVR customer address acquisition method
US20040258230A1 (en) * 2003-06-19 2004-12-23 Hanna George Barry Method and apparatus for making a long distance telephone call
US7042994B2 (en) * 2003-06-19 2006-05-09 Bellsouth Intellectual Property Corporation Method and apparatus for making a long distance telephone call
US7460652B2 (en) * 2003-09-26 2008-12-02 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. VoiceXML and rule engine based switchboard for interactive voice response (IVR) services
US8155297B1 (en) 2003-12-02 2012-04-10 Jpmorgan Chase Bank System and method for providing call-back options
US7415267B2 (en) * 2003-12-15 2008-08-19 Jp Morgan Chase Bank Methods and systems for managing call reports for the financial services industry
US7356475B2 (en) * 2004-01-05 2008-04-08 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for providing access to an interactive service offering
US7936861B2 (en) 2004-07-23 2011-05-03 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Announcement system and method of use
US20060026049A1 (en) * 2004-07-28 2006-02-02 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Method for identifying and prioritizing customer care automation
US8165281B2 (en) * 2004-07-28 2012-04-24 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Method and system for mapping caller information to call center agent transactions
US7515693B2 (en) * 2004-08-06 2009-04-07 Powerphone, Inc. Call handler systems and methods
US7580837B2 (en) * 2004-08-12 2009-08-25 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for targeted tuning module of a speech recognition system
US7602898B2 (en) * 2004-08-18 2009-10-13 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for providing computer assisted user support
US20060062375A1 (en) * 2004-09-23 2006-03-23 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for providing product offers at a call center
US7197130B2 (en) * 2004-10-05 2007-03-27 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. Dynamic load balancing between multiple locations with different telephony system
US7668889B2 (en) 2004-10-27 2010-02-23 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Method and system to combine keyword and natural language search results
US7657005B2 (en) * 2004-11-02 2010-02-02 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for identifying telephone callers
US7724889B2 (en) * 2004-11-29 2010-05-25 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for utilizing confidence levels in automated call routing
US7864942B2 (en) * 2004-12-06 2011-01-04 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for routing calls
US7242751B2 (en) 2004-12-06 2007-07-10 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for speech recognition-enabled automatic call routing
US20060126808A1 (en) * 2004-12-13 2006-06-15 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for measurement of call deflection
US20060126811A1 (en) * 2004-12-13 2006-06-15 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. System and method for routing calls
US7751551B2 (en) * 2005-01-10 2010-07-06 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for speech-enabled call routing
US7450698B2 (en) * 2005-01-14 2008-11-11 At&T Intellectual Property 1, L.P. System and method of utilizing a hybrid semantic model for speech recognition
US7627096B2 (en) * 2005-01-14 2009-12-01 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for independently recognizing and selecting actions and objects in a speech recognition system
US7627109B2 (en) 2005-02-04 2009-12-01 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Call center system for multiple transaction selections
US20060188087A1 (en) * 2005-02-18 2006-08-24 Sbc Knowledge Ventures, Lp System and method for caller-controlled music on-hold
US8130936B2 (en) * 2005-03-03 2012-03-06 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for on hold caller-controlled activities and entertainment
US20060206381A1 (en) * 2005-03-12 2006-09-14 Felix Frayman Method and system for creating interactive guides and information exchange services
US7933399B2 (en) * 2005-03-22 2011-04-26 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for utilizing virtual agents in an interactive voice response application
US8223954B2 (en) 2005-03-22 2012-07-17 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for automating customer relations in a communications environment
US7636432B2 (en) 2005-05-13 2009-12-22 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of determining call treatment of repeat calls
US7657020B2 (en) 2005-06-03 2010-02-02 At&T Intellectual Property I, Lp Call routing system and method of using the same
US8005204B2 (en) 2005-06-03 2011-08-23 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. Call routing system and method of using the same
US8503641B2 (en) * 2005-07-01 2013-08-06 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of automated order status retrieval
US8175253B2 (en) * 2005-07-07 2012-05-08 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method for automated performance monitoring for a call servicing system
US8526577B2 (en) * 2005-08-25 2013-09-03 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method to access content from a speech-enabled automated system
US8548157B2 (en) 2005-08-29 2013-10-01 At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. System and method of managing incoming telephone calls at a call center
US8874477B2 (en) 2005-10-04 2014-10-28 Steven Mark Hoffberg Multifactorial optimization system and method
US8453071B2 (en) * 2006-02-07 2013-05-28 International Business Machines Corporation Method of providing phone service menus
US8300798B1 (en) 2006-04-03 2012-10-30 Wai Wu Intelligent communication routing system and method
US20080046324A1 (en) * 2006-08-17 2008-02-21 Derek Wayne Bailey Telephone apparatus and advertising method using telephone apparatus
US7597394B2 (en) * 2006-10-31 2009-10-06 Edward Liu Car seat head rest with built-in screen
US7917747B2 (en) * 2007-03-22 2011-03-29 Igt Multi-party encryption systems and methods
US20090031885A1 (en) * 2007-07-31 2009-02-05 Christopher Lee Bennetts Networked karaoke system and method
US20090031883A1 (en) * 2007-07-31 2009-02-05 Christopher Lee Bennetts Networked karaoke system and method
US8284921B2 (en) * 2007-10-01 2012-10-09 Blackboard Connect Inc. Method for dispersing the transmission of mass notifications
US8358771B1 (en) 2010-03-24 2013-01-22 Jpmorgan Chase Bank, N.A. System and method for managing customer communications over communication channels
US9538493B2 (en) 2010-08-23 2017-01-03 Finetrak, Llc Locating a mobile station and applications therefor
SG11201703521UA (en) 2014-11-03 2017-05-30 Genentech Inc Methods and biomarkers for predicting efficacy and evaluation of an ox40 agonist treatment

Citations (49)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3022381A (en) * 1959-02-26 1962-02-20 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Credit card operated telephone
US3189687A (en) * 1962-02-02 1965-06-15 Charles G Miller Telephone switching system
US3564210A (en) * 1968-11-29 1971-02-16 Farrington Mfg Co Apparatus combining a variable amount imprinter with credit verification circuitry
US3652795A (en) * 1970-11-25 1972-03-28 Electrospace Corp Telephone transaction system
US3676597A (en) * 1970-12-28 1972-07-11 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Coin telephone non-coin service
US3727186A (en) * 1971-02-26 1973-04-10 Digital Data Syst Corp Method of and apparatus for credit verification
US3769463A (en) * 1972-02-28 1973-10-30 Lorbon Mfg Co Inc Electronic long-distance telephone call computer and recorder
US3870866A (en) * 1971-11-11 1975-03-11 Halpern John Wolfgang Fee charging system
US3929278A (en) * 1973-02-23 1975-12-30 Crouzet Sa Prepayment apparatus with a coded ticket
US3938091A (en) * 1972-03-17 1976-02-10 Atalla Technovations Company Personal verification system
US3985998A (en) * 1970-11-18 1976-10-12 Century International Corporation Personal authority verification system
US4028494A (en) * 1976-05-17 1977-06-07 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Escrow telephone coin collection circuit and method
US4097923A (en) * 1975-04-16 1978-06-27 Pitney-Bowes, Inc. Remote postage meter charging system using an advanced microcomputerized postage meter
US4122308A (en) * 1977-06-03 1978-10-24 Utility Verification Corp. Telephone call metering device
US4139739A (en) * 1977-07-05 1979-02-13 Tdx Systems, Inc. Telecommunications call back system
US4204113A (en) * 1977-09-16 1980-05-20 Georges Giraud System for keeping account of predetermined homogenous units
USRE30821E (en) * 1961-04-12 1981-12-08 Telecredit, Inc. Customer service unit
US4367402A (en) * 1977-03-31 1983-01-04 Compagnie Internationale Pour L'informatique Cii-Honeywell Bull System for keeping account of predetermined homogeneous units
US4410765A (en) * 1981-06-04 1983-10-18 United Networks, Inc. Telephone call routing and charging system
US4449040A (en) * 1980-12-06 1984-05-15 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co. Identification code determining apparatus for use in transaction processing apparatus
US4467424A (en) * 1979-12-17 1984-08-21 Hedges Richard A Remote gaming system
US4468529A (en) * 1982-04-21 1984-08-28 Jayem Dialer Corp. Programmable automatic calling systems
US4501958A (en) * 1981-03-05 1985-02-26 Electronique Marcel Dassault Verification system, for example for passing through a toll point
US4513175A (en) * 1982-04-21 1985-04-23 Jayem Dialer Corp. Automatic calling systems for accessing communications networks
US4518824A (en) * 1981-06-09 1985-05-21 Urmet Sud S.P.A. Public telephone method and apparatus wherein the user's personal telephone number and a personal dialing code are used to effect debiting charges
US4580011A (en) * 1983-09-30 1986-04-01 Glaser Robert E Distributed processing telephone switching system
US4595983A (en) * 1983-10-27 1986-06-17 Reliance Electric Company Central office powered credit only telephone paystation
US4611096A (en) * 1983-12-01 1986-09-09 At&T Bell Laboratories Telephone office service assist and handoff
US4616852A (en) * 1984-11-26 1986-10-14 The Talman Home Federal Savings And Loan Association Of Illinois Money debit card application form and method of processing same
US4673802A (en) * 1983-02-23 1987-06-16 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co. System for making payments for transactions
US4680785A (en) * 1983-11-11 1987-07-14 Nippo Communication Industrial Co., Ltd. Personal-signaling communication system
US4734858A (en) * 1983-12-05 1988-03-29 Portel Services Network, Inc. Data terminal and system for placing orders
US4768223A (en) * 1985-03-08 1988-08-30 Tamura Electric Works, Ltd. Public telephone set with internal charge processing
US4768222A (en) * 1984-11-22 1988-08-30 Rene Kalfon Control and surveillance system for prepayment public telephone apparatus
US4782519A (en) * 1986-05-22 1988-11-01 Network Access Corporation Method and apparatus for enhancing the operating capabilities of a telephone switching system
US4791640A (en) * 1985-10-21 1988-12-13 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Call charging arrangement
US4792973A (en) * 1984-06-08 1988-12-20 M/A-Com Government Systems Inc. Selective enablement of descramblers
US4870679A (en) * 1988-12-23 1989-09-26 American Telephone And Telegraph Company Repertory telephone dialer with remote billing capability
US4879744A (en) * 1985-07-10 1989-11-07 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co. Card-operated telephone
US4897870A (en) * 1985-09-25 1990-01-30 Southlake Technologies, Inc. Network implemented pay telephone set
US4926996A (en) * 1983-12-06 1990-05-22 Mars Incorporated Two way communication token interrogation apparatus
US4932042A (en) * 1989-03-03 1990-06-05 At&T Bell Laboratories Spontaneous voice and data messaging
US5003585A (en) * 1986-07-18 1991-03-26 Louis Richer System for the payment of telephone calls in a private self-switching unit
US5068891A (en) * 1989-05-31 1991-11-26 Marshall Marvin E Credit control system for long distance telephone services
US5153906A (en) * 1983-11-11 1992-10-06 Nippo Communication Industrial Co., Ltd. Personal-servicing communication system
US5243643A (en) * 1990-11-01 1993-09-07 Voiceples Corporation Voice processing system with configurable caller interfaces
US5251252A (en) * 1985-07-10 1993-10-05 First Data Resources Inc. Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity
US5898762A (en) * 1985-07-10 1999-04-27 Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US5917893A (en) * 1985-07-10 1999-06-29 Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Multiple format telephonic interface control system

Family Cites Families (408)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2902541A (en) 1959-09-01 Credit verifying system
US2941161A (en) 1954-05-26 1960-06-14 Gen Dynamics Corp Broadcast paging system
US3076059A (en) 1958-06-20 1963-01-29 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Signaling system
US3060275A (en) 1958-11-07 1962-10-23 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Telephone system signaling
US3159818A (en) 1960-04-08 1964-12-01 Scantlin Electronics Inc Data storage system with selective readout
US3082402A (en) 1960-05-10 1963-03-19 Scantlin Electronics Inc Securities quotation apparatus
US3249919A (en) 1960-05-10 1966-05-03 Scantlin Electronics Inc Securities quotation apparatus
NL267564A (en) 1960-08-22
US3246082A (en) 1962-03-26 1966-04-12 Levy Alfred Telephone hold program system
US3299210A (en) 1963-03-18 1967-01-17 Ibm Apparatus for connecting a multichannel data processor with a plurality of telephone lines
US3394246A (en) 1963-04-08 1968-07-23 Telecredit Status-indicating system
US3347988A (en) 1963-06-17 1967-10-17 Bolt Beranek & Newman Method of and system for remotelocation computer communication via telephone
US3337847A (en) 1963-09-17 1967-08-22 North Electric Co Communication system for connecting subscribers to a multiplex message synthesizing system
US3991406A (en) 1963-12-31 1976-11-09 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Program controlled data processing system
US3569939A (en) * 1963-12-31 1971-03-09 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Program controlled data processing system
US3568157A (en) * 1963-12-31 1971-03-02 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Program controlled data processing system
US3651480A (en) 1963-12-31 1972-03-21 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Program controlled data processing system
US3371162A (en) * 1964-09-02 1968-02-27 Scantlin Electronics Inc System for transmitting digital data via telephone lines utilizing a telephone as the input
US3381276A (en) * 1965-09-15 1968-04-30 Photo Magnetic Syst Inc Computer systems
US3393272A (en) 1965-11-19 1968-07-16 Hanson Oliver Wendell Automatic telephone guest call system
US3482057A (en) * 1966-01-28 1969-12-02 Ibm Automatic intercept system
US3544769A (en) 1967-04-05 1970-12-01 Digital Identification Systems Electronic identification and credit card system
DE1512981B2 (en) 1967-04-08 1975-07-17 Standard Elektrik Lorenz Ag, 7000 Stuttgart Partial lock for telephone exchanges
US3647973A (en) 1967-12-04 1972-03-07 Peter James Computer system utilizing a telephone as an input device
US3624292A (en) 1967-12-06 1971-11-30 Scm Corp Communication system including an answer-back message generator and keyboard
US3557311A (en) * 1968-01-02 1971-01-19 Compumatics Inc Information transmission system including a unit for producing a printed record of information transmitted
US3594004A (en) 1968-03-15 1971-07-20 Howard Miller Game having quick prize indication
US3581072A (en) * 1968-03-28 1971-05-25 Frederick Nymeyer Auction market computation system
US3553378A (en) 1968-05-06 1971-01-05 Dialscan Systems Inc Information retrieval apparatus via telephone lines providing simultaneous accessing of same information source
US3556530A (en) 1968-05-23 1971-01-19 Howard Miller Game having quick prize indication for wide area use
US3617638A (en) 1968-07-17 1971-11-02 Audac Corp System for verifying credit card transactions
US3515814A (en) * 1968-09-16 1970-06-02 Electronic Data Syst Corp Sequencer and selector for automatic voice tone transmission
US3573747A (en) * 1969-02-24 1971-04-06 Institutional Networks Corp Instinet communication system for effectuating the sale or exchange of fungible properties between subscribers
DE1932555C3 (en) 1969-06-27 1973-09-13 Kabelschlepp Gmbh, 5900 Siegen Protective cover for guideways of machine tools
US3571799A (en) * 1969-08-21 1971-03-23 Ibm Data transmission terminal
US3800283A (en) 1969-11-12 1974-03-26 Sanders Associates Inc Credit verifying unit
US3618038A (en) 1969-12-24 1971-11-02 Edward S Stein Telephonic data transmitting system
US3696335A (en) 1970-04-21 1972-10-03 Jerome H Lemelson Credit verification system
US3644675A (en) 1970-06-04 1972-02-22 Frank W Watlington Polling method utilizing telephone transmission and recording system
US3697702A (en) 1970-07-16 1972-10-10 American Telephone & Telegraph Selectably controllable announcement system
CA1025118A (en) 1970-07-23 1978-01-24 Periphonics Corporation Analog signal recording and playback method and system
US3745264A (en) 1970-07-23 1973-07-10 Periphonics Corp Analog signal recording and playback method and system
US3675513A (en) 1970-07-24 1972-07-11 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Communications system for alphanumeric information employing audio tone signalling
US3665107A (en) 1970-11-13 1972-05-23 Automatic Elect Lab Monitoring circuit in data sets,with signal muting
US3688126A (en) 1971-01-29 1972-08-29 Paul R Klein Sound-operated, yes-no responsive switch
US3950618A (en) 1971-03-25 1976-04-13 Bloisi Albertoni De Lemos System for public opinion research
US3787632A (en) 1971-06-28 1974-01-22 Northern Electric Co Automatic number identification for private telephone exchanges
US3998465A (en) 1972-03-24 1976-12-21 Mascola Donald C Telephone random number game
US3858032A (en) 1972-04-10 1974-12-31 Transaction Technology Inc Apparatus and method of coding information
US3781810A (en) 1972-04-26 1973-12-25 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Scheme for saving and restoring register contents in a data processor
US3870821A (en) 1972-11-29 1975-03-11 Donald P Steury Pushbutton telephone printer/recorder
US3792446A (en) 1972-12-04 1974-02-12 Pitney Bowes Inc Remote postage meter resetting method
US3829628A (en) 1972-12-26 1974-08-13 Gte Automatic Electric Lab Inc Trunk circuit number parity checking
US3794774A (en) 1973-01-19 1974-02-26 Courtesy Communications Corp Telephone audio program system
DE2320092C2 (en) 1973-04-19 1975-02-27 Siemens Ag, 1000 Berlin Und 8000 Muenchen Circuit arrangement for telecommunication systems in which connection paths can be used for different types of message transmission Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin and 8000 Munich
US3855457A (en) 1973-06-18 1974-12-17 Ibm Machine for processing merchandising tickets in both roll and individual form
US3898432A (en) 1973-06-20 1975-08-05 Ibm Read/write machine for magnetic stripped document card
US3974338A (en) 1973-06-25 1976-08-10 The Audichron Company Apparatus for automatic message reprogramming of a message announcement system
US3940569A (en) 1973-08-08 1976-02-24 E & M Communications Corporation Programmable toll restrictor
US3987252A (en) 1973-08-29 1976-10-19 Graphic Scanning, Inc. Computer controlled telephone answering system
US3982103A (en) 1973-10-12 1976-09-21 Telecredit, Inc. Credit verification system
US4017835A (en) 1974-02-11 1977-04-12 Randolph Richard D System for verifying credit status
US3918174A (en) 1974-02-21 1975-11-11 Nan C Miller Game device
US3914747A (en) 1974-02-26 1975-10-21 Periphonics Corp Memory having non-fixed relationships between addresses and storage locations
US3947972A (en) 1974-03-20 1976-04-06 Freeman Michael J Real time conversational student response teaching apparatus
US3909553A (en) 1974-04-01 1975-09-30 Gte Automatic Electric Lab Inc Line card for key telephone systems adapted to provide music during hold condition
US3889050A (en) 1974-04-11 1975-06-10 Gte Sylvania Inc Subscription television system and switching station therefor
US3881160A (en) 1974-05-20 1975-04-29 Joseph I Ross Catv multi-tap distribution box
US3912874A (en) 1974-06-04 1975-10-14 American Telephone & Telegraph Conference arrangement
US3934095A (en) 1974-06-24 1976-01-20 Action Communication Systems, Inc. Method and system for short term queuing of telephone calls in automatic inter-city telephone call connection system
US3920908A (en) 1974-06-25 1975-11-18 Constantine R Kraus Buyer credit service for a telephone system
US3928724A (en) 1974-10-10 1975-12-23 Andersen Byram Kouma Murphy Lo Voice-actuated telephone directory-assistance system
US3989899A (en) 1975-04-08 1976-11-02 Daniel Norwich Telephone scheduling system
US4260854A (en) 1975-05-20 1981-04-07 Sudbury Systems Incorporated Rapid simultaneous multiple access information storage and retrieval system
US4191376A (en) 1975-05-27 1980-03-04 Systems Operations, Inc. Highly secure playing cards for instant lottery and games
SE427403B (en) 1975-06-13 1983-03-28 Ericsson Telefon Ab L M SET UP AND DEVICE TO PROVIDE AT LEAST ONE SPECIAL SERVICE REGARDING VOICE MESSAGE TO A NUMBER OF SUBSCRIBERS
US4012599A (en) 1975-07-29 1977-03-15 Jerome Charles Meyer Telephone communications system for the deaf
US4328396A (en) 1975-08-13 1982-05-04 Theis Peter F Total service telephone answering system
US4187498A (en) 1975-10-06 1980-02-05 1St National Bank Check verification system
JPS5286706A (en) 1976-01-14 1977-07-19 Hitachi Ltd Key telephone receiver for audio sound response
US4024345A (en) 1976-01-14 1977-05-17 Strom Industries International, Inc. Audio program and telephonic communication system
US4121052A (en) 1976-01-26 1978-10-17 Richard Herbert L Telephone data recording system
US4192972A (en) 1976-04-27 1980-03-11 Cselt-Centro Studi e Laboratori Telecomunicazioni S.p.A Pay-telephone station with deferred collection
JPS5915547B2 (en) 1976-05-08 1984-04-10 橋本コ−ポレイション株式会社 Dial information display device
US4078316A (en) 1976-06-24 1978-03-14 Freeman Michael J Real time conversational toy
US4054756A (en) * 1976-09-29 1977-10-18 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Method and apparatus for automating special service call handling
JPS5342609A (en) 1976-09-30 1978-04-18 Hashimoto Corp Automatic answering telephone system with remote control using multichannel recorder
US4087638A (en) 1976-10-01 1978-05-02 Telaris Telecommunications Inc. DTMF Communication system
US4108361A (en) 1976-10-12 1978-08-22 Krause Stephen R Universal mark sense betting terminal system and method
US4071698A (en) * 1977-01-10 1978-01-31 Franklin V. Barger, Jr. Telephone system for audio demonstration and marketing of goods or services
US4398708A (en) 1977-01-28 1983-08-16 Max Goldman Method of fabricating and securing playing cards for instant lotteries and games
US4160129A (en) 1977-05-03 1979-07-03 Tdx Systems, Inc. Telephone communications control system having a plurality of remote switching units
US4160125A (en) 1977-05-23 1979-07-03 Digital Products Corporation Telephone polling apparatus
US4090034A (en) 1977-06-09 1978-05-16 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Usage-sensitive billing arrangement for private branch exchange subscribers
US4090038A (en) 1977-07-14 1978-05-16 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Audio signal on hold circuit
US4200770A (en) 1977-09-06 1980-04-29 Stanford University Cryptographic apparatus and method
US4117278A (en) 1977-09-19 1978-09-26 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Service observing terminal
US4152547A (en) 1977-11-29 1979-05-01 Theis Peter F Selective monitor for an automatic telephone answering system
US4692817A (en) 1977-11-30 1987-09-08 Morgan Industries, Inc. Programmed conversation recording system
US4539436A (en) 1977-11-30 1985-09-03 Theis Peter F Programmed conversation recording system
US4405829A (en) 1977-12-14 1983-09-20 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Cryptographic communications system and method
US4150255A (en) 1977-12-29 1979-04-17 Morgan Industries, Inc. Conversational telephone call distributor
US4264924A (en) 1978-03-03 1981-04-28 Freeman Michael J Dedicated channel interactive cable television system
CH620005A5 (en) 1978-04-19 1980-10-31 Scheuchzer Auguste Les Fils D
US4145578A (en) 1978-04-28 1979-03-20 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Position access preference method
US4201887A (en) 1978-05-11 1980-05-06 Cordura Marketing, Inc. Data telecommunications terminal
US4299637A (en) 1978-06-14 1981-11-10 John R. Koza Method of making a game ticket
US4162377A (en) * 1978-07-13 1979-07-24 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Data base auto bill calling using CCIS direct signaling
US4191860A (en) 1978-07-13 1980-03-04 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Data base communication call processing method
US4307266A (en) 1978-08-14 1981-12-22 Messina John D Communication apparatus for the handicapped
FR2435270A1 (en) 1978-08-16 1980-04-04 Etude Systemes Avances Amenage ASSEMBLY IN PARTICULAR FOR TAKING ON THE CHALLENGES AND POSSIBLY THE DETERMINATION OF THE WINNERS IN A GAME SUCH AS A NATIONAL LOTTO GAME
US4243844A (en) 1978-09-19 1981-01-06 Waldman Herbert H Hold circuit for telephone system
US4314103A (en) 1978-09-29 1982-02-02 Plantronics, Inc. Telephone answering system with simulated dial tone disconnect protection
JPS5553767A (en) 1978-10-14 1980-04-19 Keihin Kiyuukou Dentetsu Kk Computer system for motor school
US4232199A (en) 1978-10-18 1980-11-04 Summa Four, Inc. Special services add-on for dial pulse activated telephone switching office
US4223183A (en) 1978-12-04 1980-09-16 Peters Jr Charles O Telephone controlled order entry system
US4221933A (en) 1978-12-21 1980-09-09 Cornell Ronald G Data storage and retrieval structure for a message storage system
US4270024A (en) 1978-12-22 1981-05-26 Morgan Electronics Telephone line activity monitor
US4345315A (en) 1979-01-19 1982-08-17 Msi Data Corporation Customer satisfaction terminal
US4317961A (en) 1979-03-23 1982-03-02 Small World Exchange, Inc. Telephone-conferencing apparatus and method
US4303804A (en) 1979-03-23 1981-12-01 Small World Exchange, Inc. Telephone-conferencing apparatus and method having line location
US4255618A (en) 1979-04-18 1981-03-10 Gte Automatic Electric Laboratories, Incorporated Digital intercept recorder/announcer system
US4241942A (en) 1979-06-25 1980-12-30 Dittler Brothers, Inc. Secure contest card
US4290141A (en) 1979-07-02 1981-09-15 General Electric Company Electronic voting system
US4264925A (en) 1979-08-13 1981-04-28 Michael J. Freeman Interactive cable television system
US4580012A (en) 1979-11-26 1986-04-01 Vmx, Inc. Electronic audio communications system with automatic user access features
US4371752A (en) 1979-11-26 1983-02-01 Ecs Telecommunications, Inc. Electronic audio communication system
US4581486A (en) 1979-11-26 1986-04-08 Vmx, Inc. Electronic audio communications system with user accessible message groups
US4320256A (en) * 1979-11-27 1982-03-16 Freeman Michael J Verbally interactive telephone interrogation system with selectible variable decision tree
US4420656A (en) 1979-11-27 1983-12-13 Michael Freeman Interactive telephone answering system
US4339798A (en) 1979-12-17 1982-07-13 Remote Dynamics Remote gaming system
US4302810A (en) 1979-12-28 1981-11-24 International Business Machines Corporation Method and apparatus for secure message transmission for use in electronic funds transfer systems
BE881073A (en) 1980-01-10 1980-05-02 Mele Louis Van DEVICE FOR BETTING LOTTO AND OTHER ALLOWED GAMBLING THROUGH THE TELEPHONE
US4277649A (en) 1980-01-18 1981-07-07 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Method and apparatus for screening telephone calls
US4313035A (en) 1980-01-18 1982-01-26 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Method of providing person locator service
US4348554A (en) 1980-03-21 1982-09-07 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Method of providing virtual private network telephone service
CA1146245A (en) 1980-05-16 1983-05-10 Patrick R. Beirne Keyless and indicatorless local telephone switching system
US4355207A (en) 1980-05-30 1982-10-19 Amtel Communications, Inc. Telephone answering system
US4338494A (en) 1980-07-11 1982-07-06 Theis Peter F Telephone call inventorying and sequencing system and method
US4494197A (en) 1980-12-11 1985-01-15 Seymour Troy Automatic lottery system
US4689742A (en) 1980-12-11 1987-08-25 Seymour Troy Automatic lottery system
US4355372A (en) 1980-12-24 1982-10-19 Npd Research Inc. Market survey data collection method
US4360875A (en) 1981-02-23 1982-11-23 Behnke Robert W Automated, door-to-door, demand-responsive public transportation system
IT1148027B (en) 1981-03-03 1986-11-26 Cselt Centro Studi Lab Telecom SYSTEM FOR THE PROPAGATION ALONG A TELEPHONE CONNECTION OF THE TEETH OF THE USERS INTERESTED IN THIS CONNECTION
US4393277A (en) 1981-03-18 1983-07-12 Selectastation, Inc. Remote tuner control system
US4389546A (en) 1981-03-23 1983-06-21 The Audichron Company Digital announcement system including remote loading and interrogation
US4401856A (en) 1981-05-13 1983-08-30 Amtel Communications, Inc. Control system for handling direct inward dialed telephone calls
JPS57196656A (en) 1981-05-28 1982-12-02 Toshiba Corp Telephone set for character input
US4360827A (en) 1981-06-02 1982-11-23 Darome, Inc. Method and means for interactive audio and video conferencing
US4625079A (en) 1981-07-31 1986-11-25 Horacio Castro Method and apparatus for activating through phone telecommand an announcer-recorder, and for selectively activating through the sending of codes consisting of signals at least another automatic call attention phone device
JPS5859657A (en) 1981-10-05 1983-04-08 Oki Electric Ind Co Ltd Automatic answering telephone set
US4965825A (en) 1981-11-03 1990-10-23 The Personalized Mass Media Corporation Signal processing apparatus and methods
US4694490A (en) 1981-11-03 1987-09-15 Harvey John C Signal processing apparatus and methods
JPS58111550A (en) 1981-12-25 1983-07-02 Toshiba Corp Telephone set
US4427848B1 (en) 1981-12-29 1994-03-29 Telephone Lottery Company Inc Telephonic alphanumeric data transmission system
GB2112989B (en) 1982-01-02 1986-02-26 David Leslie Mcneight Competitive question and answer game
US4585903A (en) 1982-01-25 1986-04-29 Viking Phone Company Cordless telephone
US4489438A (en) 1982-02-01 1984-12-18 National Data Corporation Audio response system
US4439635A (en) 1982-02-09 1984-03-27 Peter F. Theis Message delivery system
US4517412A (en) 1982-03-09 1985-05-14 Martha Newkirk Card-actuated telecommunication network
US4439636A (en) 1982-03-09 1984-03-27 Martha Newkirk Credit card actuated telecommunication access network
US4468528A (en) 1982-03-24 1984-08-28 At&T Technologies, Inc. Methods and apparatus for providing enhanced announcements in a telephone system
US4517410A (en) 1982-04-02 1985-05-14 Data Acquisition Services Automatic user selected variable telephone message record and playback system
US4475189A (en) 1982-05-27 1984-10-02 At&T Bell Laboratories Automatic interactive conference arrangement
US4539435A (en) 1982-06-14 1985-09-03 Eckmann Stuart F Interactive educational system with voice reaction and access using tone-generating telephone
US4614367A (en) 1982-06-17 1986-09-30 Rand Mcnally & Co. Tamper-resisting multipart negotiable instruments
DE3225562C2 (en) 1982-07-08 1984-09-27 Telefonbau Und Normalzeit Gmbh, 6000 Frankfurt Method for automatic order acceptance using a telecommunication system, in particular a telephone exchange system
US4549047A (en) 1982-07-22 1985-10-22 Voicemail International, Inc. Digitized voice message storage system
US4451700A (en) 1982-08-27 1984-05-29 M. A. Kempner, Inc. Automatic audience survey system
FR2533789B1 (en) 1982-09-24 1987-10-23 France Etat HYBRID LOCAL COMMUNICATION NETWORK IN CIRCUIT AND LOOP PACKET MODES CARRYING A TIME MULTIPLEX
US4783796A (en) 1982-09-28 1988-11-08 Opcom PBX telephone call control system
US4747124A (en) 1982-09-28 1988-05-24 Opcom PBX telephone call control system
US4761807A (en) 1982-09-29 1988-08-02 Vmx, Inc. Electronic audio communications system with voice authentication features
US4584602A (en) 1982-11-08 1986-04-22 Pioneer Ansafone Manufacturing Corporation Polling system and method using nondedicated telephone lines
US4591664A (en) 1982-11-23 1986-05-27 Michael Freeman Multichannel interactive telephone answering apparatus
US4625081A (en) 1982-11-30 1986-11-25 Lotito Lawrence A Automated telephone voice service system
CA1270345A (en) 1983-01-10 1990-06-12 Claude Robert Dupuis Apparatus for transmitting information via telephone lines
US4544804A (en) 1983-01-24 1985-10-01 At&T Bell Laboratories Conference control transfer arrangement
FR2540696B1 (en) 1983-02-04 1985-06-21 Bernard Alain TAXATION PROCESS FOR THE SALE OF INFORMATION BY TELEPHONE
US4490583A (en) 1983-02-14 1984-12-25 Circom, Inc. Plural line telephone controller
US4672660A (en) 1983-02-14 1987-06-09 Amtel Communications, Inc. Method and system for identifying telephone callers
JPH079678B2 (en) 1983-03-01 1995-02-01 オムロン株式会社 Electronic cash register
DE3307199A1 (en) 1983-03-01 1984-09-06 Rettungsdienst Stiftung Björn Steiger e.V., 7057 Winnenden ENTERTAINMENT GAME
US4547851A (en) 1983-03-14 1985-10-15 Kurland Lawrence G Integrated interactive restaurant communication method for food and entertainment processing
JPS59174972A (en) 1983-03-24 1984-10-03 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co Card authenticating machine
GB8314468D0 (en) 1983-05-25 1983-06-29 Agb Research Plc Television monitoring
US4566030A (en) 1983-06-09 1986-01-21 Ctba Associates Television viewer data collection system
US4541087A (en) 1983-06-27 1985-09-10 Confertech International, Inc. Digital teleconferencing control device, system and method
US4591665A (en) 1983-07-12 1986-05-27 At&T Bell Laboratories Method and apparatus for providing call tracing service
US4582956B1 (en) 1983-07-12 1994-09-20 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Method and apparatus for displaying at a selected station special service information during a silent interval between ringing
US4555594A (en) 1983-08-03 1985-11-26 At&T Bell Laboratories Telephone interexchange signaling protocol
US4565903A (en) 1983-08-03 1986-01-21 At&T Bell Laboratories Telephone interexchange carrier selection
US4625276A (en) 1983-08-31 1986-11-25 Vericard Corporation Data logging and transfer system using portable and resident units
US4577062A (en) 1983-09-02 1986-03-18 Butler National Corporation Method for dispensing information
US4591190A (en) 1983-09-09 1986-05-27 Canadian Security Printers Inc. Voucher with self-contained verification means
US4562342A (en) 1983-09-15 1985-12-31 Solo Alan J Credit card provided with coded security means
US4688170A (en) 1983-09-22 1987-08-18 Tau Systems Corporation Communications network for communicating with computers provided with disparate protocols
US4570930A (en) 1983-10-03 1986-02-18 At&T Bell Laboratories System, method, and station interface arrangement for playing video game over telephone lines
US4577067A (en) 1983-10-05 1986-03-18 Alfred Levy Remotely controlled telephone hold program system
JPS6080354A (en) 1983-10-08 1985-05-08 Hashimoto Corp Information reception system using pushphone
US4559416A (en) 1983-10-12 1985-12-17 Morgan Industries, Inc. Telephone line activity monitor
US4598367A (en) 1983-11-09 1986-07-01 Financial Design Systems, Inc. Financial quotation system using synthesized speech
CA1222586A (en) 1983-11-11 1987-06-02 Tadahiko Akiyama Personal-servicing communication system
US4716583A (en) 1983-11-16 1987-12-29 Speech Plus, Inc. Verbal computer terminal system
US4523055A (en) 1983-11-25 1985-06-11 Pitney Bowes Inc. Voice/text storage and retrieval system
SE440287B (en) 1983-11-28 1985-07-22 Kurt Paulsson DEVICE FOR A TERMINAL SYSTEM
JPS60119159A (en) 1983-11-30 1985-06-26 Toshiba Corp Radiotelephonic device
US4611094A (en) 1983-12-01 1986-09-09 At&T Bell Laboratories Method for customer definable telephone capability
US4652998A (en) 1984-01-04 1987-03-24 Bally Manufacturing Corporation Video gaming system with pool prize structures
US4783800A (en) 1984-02-14 1988-11-08 Levine Alfred B Remote controlled interactive scheduler system
US4856050A (en) 1984-01-30 1989-08-08 Theis Peter F Telephone message retrieval system with improved message processor and retrieval console including auto-disabling playback switch
US4719647A (en) 1984-01-30 1988-01-12 Morgan Electronics Telephone message retrieval system with improved processor and retrieval console
US4630201A (en) 1984-02-14 1986-12-16 International Security Note & Computer Corporation On-line and off-line transaction security system using a code generated from a transaction parameter and a random number
US4975941A (en) 1984-03-26 1990-12-04 Dytel Corporation Call processor for facilitating call completions
US4696028A (en) 1984-03-26 1987-09-22 Dytel Corporation PBX Intercept and caller interactive attendant bypass system
US4955047A (en) 1984-03-26 1990-09-04 Dytel Corporation Automated attendant with direct inward system access
US4649563A (en) 1984-04-02 1987-03-10 R L Associates Method of and means for accessing computerized data bases utilizing a touch-tone telephone instrument
US4697282A (en) 1984-04-18 1987-09-29 Golden Enterprises, Inc. Telephone operator voice storage and retrieval system
US4592546A (en) 1984-04-26 1986-06-03 David B. Lockton Game of skill playable by remote participants in conjunction with a live event
US4567359A (en) 1984-05-24 1986-01-28 Lockwood Lawrence B Automatic information, goods and services dispensing system
US4665502A (en) 1984-06-01 1987-05-12 William Kreisner Random lottery computer
US4815121A (en) 1984-06-06 1989-03-21 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Communication apparatus recognizing speech and automatically switching from data to speech transmission
US4599493A (en) 1984-08-28 1986-07-08 Tbs International, Inc. Multi-line telephone control system
US4594476A (en) 1984-08-31 1986-06-10 Freeman Michael J Broadcast interactive telephone system
US4603232A (en) 1984-09-24 1986-07-29 Npd Research, Inc. Rapid market survey collection and dissemination method
US4677552A (en) 1984-10-05 1987-06-30 Sibley Jr H C International commodity trade exchange
US4654482A (en) 1984-10-15 1987-03-31 Deangelis Lawrence J Home merchandise ordering telecommunications terminal
US4774655A (en) 1984-10-24 1988-09-27 Telebase Systems, Inc. System for retrieving information from a plurality of remote databases having at least two different languages
US4669730A (en) 1984-11-05 1987-06-02 Small Maynard E Automated sweepstakes-type game
US4815741A (en) 1984-11-05 1989-03-28 Small Maynard E Automated marketing and gaming systems
US4677553A (en) 1984-11-09 1987-06-30 International Totalizator Systems, Inc. Secure placement of confidential information on a circulated blank ticket
US4785473A (en) 1984-11-27 1988-11-15 Genesis Electronics Corporation Interactive audio telecommunications message storage, forwarding and retrieval system
FR2575016B1 (en) 1984-12-13 1987-01-16 Grandmougin Michel METHOD FOR OBTAINING A COMMUNICATION FROM A PUBLIC TELEPHONE DEVICE FOLLOWING PREPAYMENT WITH CURRENCY
US4663777A (en) 1984-12-17 1987-05-05 Charles Szeto Apparatus for controlling digital voice recording and playback over telephone lines and adapted for use with standard host computers
US4645873A (en) * 1985-01-23 1987-02-24 Telecue Systems Transactional telecommunication system
US4674044A (en) 1985-01-30 1987-06-16 Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc. Automated securities trading system
US4785408A (en) 1985-03-11 1988-11-15 AT&T Information Systems Inc. American Telephone and Telegraph Company Method and apparatus for generating computer-controlled interactive voice services
US4671512A (en) 1985-06-05 1987-06-09 Gilbert Bachman Automated teller machine transaction receipts with integral promotional game
US4782510A (en) 1985-07-05 1988-11-01 Melita Electronic Labs, Inc. Telephone answering machine with digital storage of announcements and messages
US4845739A (en) * 1985-07-10 1989-07-04 Fdr Interactive Technologies Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US5073929A (en) 1988-05-16 1991-12-17 First Data Resources Inc. Voice-data telephonic control system
US5224153A (en) * 1985-07-10 1993-06-29 First Data Resouces Inc. Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US5128984A (en) 1985-07-10 1992-07-07 First Data Resources Inc. Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity
US5014298A (en) 1985-07-10 1991-05-07 First Data Resources Inc. Voice-data telephonic control system
DE04022186T1 (en) 1985-07-10 2005-05-04 Ronald A Katz Technology Licen operation control
US5365575A (en) 1985-07-10 1994-11-15 First Data Resources Inc. Telephonic-interface lottery system
US5835576A (en) 1985-07-10 1998-11-10 Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Telephonic-interface lottery device
US4792968A (en) * 1985-07-10 1988-12-20 Fdr Interactive Technologies Statistical analysis system for use with public communication facility
US5359645A (en) * 1985-07-10 1994-10-25 First Data Corporation Inc. Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US5351285A (en) 1985-07-10 1994-09-27 First Data Resources Inc. Multiple format telephonic interface control system
US4635251A (en) 1985-07-31 1987-01-06 At&T Bell Laboratories Meet-me conference with control capabilities
US4685123A (en) 1985-09-13 1987-08-04 American Telephone And Telegraph Company Communication system having voice and data capability
US4756020A (en) 1985-08-30 1988-07-05 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Method and apparatus for disallowing the extension of a call through a network
JPS6253061A (en) 1985-09-02 1987-03-07 Nec Corp Method for preventing illegal access
US4942616A (en) 1985-09-09 1990-07-17 Thomas Linstroth Interactive synthesized speech quotation system for brokers
US4805207A (en) 1985-09-09 1989-02-14 Wang Laboratories, Inc. Message taking and retrieval system
CA1262273A (en) 1985-09-30 1989-10-10 Robert William Foster Method of and an arrangement for forwarding a customer order
US4897867A (en) 1985-09-30 1990-01-30 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Method of and an arrangement for forwarding a customer order
US4685127A (en) 1985-10-01 1987-08-04 Southwestern Bell Telephone System for converting a No. 5 crossbar telephone switching central office to a conforming equal access central office
US4706275A (en) 1985-11-13 1987-11-10 Aerotel Ltd. Telephone system
US4710955A (en) * 1985-11-25 1987-12-01 General Instrument Corporation Cable television system with two-way telephone communication path
US4696029A (en) 1985-12-12 1987-09-22 Telesciences, Inc. Telephone traffic load control system
US4763317A (en) 1985-12-13 1988-08-09 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Digital communication network architecture for providing universal information services
US4852154A (en) 1986-02-04 1989-07-25 Pacific Bell Pay-per-view CATV system
JPH0743748B2 (en) 1986-02-17 1995-05-15 株式会社オークネット Information transmission processing method of auction information transmission processing system
US4876592A (en) 1986-03-10 1989-10-24 Henry Von Kohorn System for merchandising and the evaluation of responses to broadcast transmissions
US4745468B1 (en) 1986-03-10 1991-06-11 System for evaluation and recording of responses to broadcast transmissions
US4763191A (en) 1986-03-17 1988-08-09 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Dial-up telephone network equipment for requesting an identified selection
US4866756A (en) 1986-04-16 1989-09-12 Call It Co. Interactive computerized communications systems with voice input and output
DE3750768T2 (en) 1986-04-16 1995-05-11 Call It Co Computer controlled communication system.
US4922519A (en) 1986-05-07 1990-05-01 American Telephone And Telegraph Company Automated operator assistance calls with voice processing
US4797910A (en) 1986-05-07 1989-01-10 American Telphone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Automated operator assistance calls with voice processing
US4715061A (en) 1986-05-30 1987-12-22 Telecredit, Inc. Coordinated multiple telephone station system
US4750199A (en) 1986-05-30 1988-06-07 Telecredit, Inc. Coordinated multiple telephone station system
US4842278A (en) 1986-06-02 1989-06-27 Victor Markowicz Hierarchical lottery network with selection from differentiated playing pools
ATE110916T1 (en) 1986-06-20 1994-09-15 Siemens Ag PROCEDURE FOR A COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM, ESPECIALLY FOR A TELEPHONE PBX SYSTEM, IN WHICH A TEMPORARY SWITCHING TO ALTERED TRANSPORT OPTIONS OCCURS.
US4748668A (en) 1986-07-09 1988-05-31 Yeda Research And Development Company Limited Method, apparatus and article for identification and signature
US4800583A (en) 1986-07-31 1989-01-24 Theis Peter F Overflow call handling system
US4832341A (en) 1986-08-21 1989-05-23 Upc Games, Inc. High security instant lottery using bar codes
US4791664A (en) 1986-09-12 1988-12-13 Lutz Joseph M System for selectively receiving telephone calls
US4788682A (en) 1986-09-23 1988-11-29 Northern Telecom Limited Telephone system adapted to telemarketing
CA1287910C (en) 1986-09-30 1991-08-20 Salvador Barron Adjunct processor for providing computer facility access protection via call transfer
US4799156A (en) 1986-10-01 1989-01-17 Strategic Processing Corporation Interactive market management system
US4943995A (en) 1986-10-08 1990-07-24 At&T Bell Laboratories Semi-automated customer information system
US4959855A (en) 1986-10-08 1990-09-25 At&T Bell Laboratories Directory assistance call processing and calling customer remote signal monitoring arrangements
US4788715A (en) 1986-10-16 1988-11-29 American Telephone And Telegraph Company At&T Bell Laboratories Announcing waiting times in queuing systems
US4781377A (en) 1986-10-24 1988-11-01 Mcvean Charles D Hybrid sporting event and game show
US4856066A (en) 1986-11-06 1989-08-08 Lemelson Jerome H Speech communication system and method
US4766604A (en) 1986-11-07 1988-08-23 Messagephone, Inc. Method for receiving and delivering voice messages
US4761684A (en) 1986-11-14 1988-08-02 Video Jukebox Network Telephone access display system
US4899373A (en) 1986-11-28 1990-02-06 American Telephone And Telegraph Company At&T Bell Laboratories Method and apparatus for providing personalized telephone subscriber features at remote locations
US4922520A (en) 1986-12-31 1990-05-01 M. A. Kempner, Inc. Automatic telephone polling system
US4722526A (en) 1987-01-20 1988-02-02 Tovar Joseph L Game method and apparatus for use while viewing a sporting event
US4769834A (en) 1987-01-30 1988-09-06 American Telephone And Telegraph Company And At&T Information Systems Inc. Inter-exchange carrier access
US4799255A (en) 1987-01-30 1989-01-17 American Telephone And Telegraph Company - At&T Information Systems Communication facilities access control arrangement
US4827500A (en) 1987-01-30 1989-05-02 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Automatic speech recognition to select among call destinations
US4761808A (en) 1987-03-18 1988-08-02 Sheldon Howard Time code telephone security access system
US4797818A (en) 1987-03-26 1989-01-10 Jeno F. Paulucci Food order/delivery system
US4812843A (en) 1987-05-04 1989-03-14 Champion Iii C Paul Telephone accessible information system
US4974252A (en) 1987-06-03 1990-11-27 Club Theatre Network, Inc. Interactive commercial/entertainment network
US4894857A (en) * 1987-06-16 1990-01-16 Inuentions Inc. Method and apparatus for customer account servicing
US4797911A (en) * 1987-06-16 1989-01-10 Inventions, Inc. Customer account online servicing system
US4757267A (en) 1987-06-17 1988-07-12 Applied Telematics, Inc. Telephone system for connecting a customer to a supplier of goods
US4791666A (en) 1987-06-19 1988-12-13 The Audichron Company Automatic intercept system interface for electromechanical telephone central office
US4850007A (en) 1987-06-25 1989-07-18 American Telephone And Telegraph Company Telephone toll service with advertising
US4893328A (en) 1987-07-31 1990-01-09 Microvoice Systems Corporation Automated telephone operator overflow device
US4797913A (en) 1987-08-04 1989-01-10 Science Dynamics Corporation Direct telephone dial ordering service
US5023904A (en) 1987-08-04 1991-06-11 Science Dynamics Corporation Direct telephone dial ordering service
US4847890A (en) 1987-08-10 1989-07-11 The Telephone Connection Anonymous interactive telephone system
US4996705A (en) 1987-09-01 1991-02-26 At&T Bell Laboratories Use of telecommunications systems for lotteries
US4835630A (en) 1987-09-17 1989-05-30 Dictaphone Corporation Modular configurable communications recorder
US4764666A (en) 1987-09-18 1988-08-16 Gtech Corporation On-line wagering system with programmable game entry cards
US4882473A (en) 1987-09-18 1989-11-21 Gtech Corporation On-line wagering system with programmable game entry cards and operator security cards
US4907079A (en) 1987-09-28 1990-03-06 Teleview Rating Corporation, Inc. System for monitoring and control of home entertainment electronic devices
US4788718A (en) 1987-10-05 1988-11-29 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At & T Laboratories Call data collection and modification of received call distribution
US4853882A (en) 1987-11-02 1989-08-01 A. C. Nielsen Company System and method for protecting against redundant mailings
US4805209A (en) 1987-12-09 1989-02-14 International Business Machines Coordinated transfer of voice and information through a digital switch
US4796293A (en) 1987-12-18 1989-01-03 Communications Network Enhancement Inc. Enhanced dedicated teleconferencing system
US4788716A (en) 1987-12-22 1988-11-29 Bell Communications Research, Inc. Public opinion polling system
US4908850B1 (en) * 1988-01-11 1995-02-07 American Communications & Engi Voice services network with automated billing
US5199062A (en) 1988-01-20 1993-03-30 Phone Base Systems Inc. Telephone communications system including a digital telephone switch, a voice response unit and a stored program sequence for controlling both the switch and the voice response unit
US4878240A (en) 1988-01-25 1989-10-31 Bell Communications Research, Inc. Multi-service telephone switching system
US4926462A (en) 1988-02-24 1990-05-15 Vmx/Opcom Interface to and operation of a voice messaging system
US4942598A (en) 1988-03-04 1990-07-17 Motorola, Inc. Telephone answering machine in paging systems with automatic number identification based message operations
US4829563A (en) 1988-04-07 1989-05-09 Teknekron Infoswitch Corporation Method for predictive dialing
US5033088A (en) 1988-06-06 1991-07-16 Voice Processing Corp. Method and apparatus for effectively receiving voice input to a voice recognition system
US4922522A (en) 1988-06-07 1990-05-01 American Telephone And Telegraph Company Telecommunications access to lottery systems
US4881261A (en) 1988-06-29 1989-11-14 Rockwell International Corporation Method for predictive pacing of calls in a calling system
US4908761A (en) 1988-09-16 1990-03-13 Innovare Resourceful Marketing Group, Inc. System for identifying heavy product purchasers who regularly use manufacturers' purchase incentives and predicting consumer promotional behavior response patterns
US4893325A (en) 1988-09-23 1990-01-09 Rockwell International Corporation Integrated public safety answering point system
US4899375A (en) 1988-09-23 1990-02-06 American Telephone & Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories More efficient call handling for operator assistance calls
US4916726A (en) 1988-09-29 1990-04-10 American Tel-A-System, Inc. Telephone answering service with integrated voice and textual message storage
US5083272A (en) 1988-11-02 1992-01-21 Britcanus Corporation Interactive telephone lottery system with a verification code
US4896346A (en) 1988-11-21 1990-01-23 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Password controlled switching system
JP2786645B2 (en) 1988-12-27 1998-08-13 株式会社東芝 Private branch exchange system
US5017917A (en) 1988-12-30 1991-05-21 At&T Bell Laboratories Restriction of communication service accessibility among subscriber communities
US4933965A (en) 1989-01-23 1990-06-12 Intellicall, Inc. Short time validity storage of a billing account number at a local telecommunications station
US4908852A (en) 1989-01-23 1990-03-13 Intellicall, Inc. Method and apparatus for altering the access format of telephone calls
US4942599A (en) 1989-02-02 1990-07-17 Alphanet Technology Corporation Location identification
US5054054A (en) 1989-02-07 1991-10-01 International Business Machines Corporation Voice applications generator
JPH02209062A (en) 1989-02-09 1990-08-20 Fujitsu Ltd Multi-medium communication system
US5214689A (en) 1989-02-11 1993-05-25 Next Generaton Info, Inc. Interactive transit information system
US4896345A (en) 1989-02-16 1990-01-23 Thorne Donald J Call handling system
US4992940A (en) 1989-03-13 1991-02-12 H-Renee, Incorporated System and method for automated selection of equipment for purchase through input of user desired specifications
US5003574A (en) * 1989-03-30 1991-03-26 At&T Bell Laboratories Voice capture system
US4932021A (en) 1989-04-03 1990-06-05 At&T Bell Laboratories Path learning feature for an automated telemarketing system
US4959783A (en) 1989-04-06 1990-09-25 Lotto Pick Quick Winning Odds, Ltd. System and method for choosing random numbers and delivering such numbers to subscribers for playing games of chance
US4989233A (en) 1989-04-11 1991-01-29 Evanston Enterprises, Inc. Systems for capturing telephonic mass responses
US4989234A (en) 1989-04-11 1991-01-29 Evanston Enterprises, Inc. Systems for capturing telephonic mass responses
US4937853A (en) 1989-05-03 1990-06-26 Agt International, Inc. Lottery agent data communication/telephone line interface
US5790636A (en) 1989-05-31 1998-08-04 Marshall; Marvin E. Telephone travel card system under the control of its customers
US5181238A (en) 1989-05-31 1993-01-19 At&T Bell Laboratories Authenticated communications access service
US4893330A (en) 1989-06-01 1990-01-09 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Method and apparatus for restricting credit card communication calls
US5028076A (en) 1989-06-14 1991-07-02 Ivy Hill Corporation Product having concealed message
US4951307A (en) 1989-07-13 1990-08-21 Willard Dan E Method and apparatus for recording telephone messages
US5046183A (en) 1989-07-31 1991-09-03 At&T Bell Laboratories Semi-automated operator assistance telecommunication calls
US4975945A (en) 1989-08-21 1990-12-04 First Data Resources Inc. Universal telephone call relay system
US5113380A (en) 1989-08-24 1992-05-12 Levine Alfred B Multiple option electronic scheduler and rescheduler
US4969183A (en) 1989-08-28 1990-11-06 Morris Reese Telephone lotto number system and service
US5003595A (en) 1989-08-29 1991-03-26 At&T Bell Laboratories Secure dial access to computer systems
US4972461A (en) 1989-09-20 1990-11-20 At&T Bell Laboratories Call message delivery system and method
US5001710A (en) 1989-10-24 1991-03-19 At&T Bell Laboratories Customer programmable automated integrated voice/data technique for communication systems
US5054059A (en) 1989-10-24 1991-10-01 Stern Telecommunications Corp. Telephone dialing system for specialized services
US5263723A (en) 1989-10-27 1993-11-23 Wakeman & Deforrest Corporation Interactive contest system
US5018736A (en) 1989-10-27 1991-05-28 Wakeman & Deforrest Corporation Interactive game system and method
US5036535A (en) 1989-11-27 1991-07-30 Unifi Communications Corporation Switchless automatic call distribution system
US5109408A (en) 1989-11-30 1992-04-28 At&T Bell Laboratories Arrangement for intentionally blocking telephone calls to predefined destination numbers but allowing such blocking to be selectively overridden
US5058152A (en) 1989-12-12 1991-10-15 The Telephone Connection Anonymous interactive telephone system having direct connect feature
US5000486A (en) 1989-12-12 1991-03-19 501 Webcraft Technologies, Inc. Fragrance enhanced scratch-off layer for game cards
US4969185A (en) 1989-12-29 1990-11-06 At&T Bell Laboratories Automated booking of telecommunications calls
US5033076A (en) 1990-01-31 1991-07-16 At&T Bell Laboratories Enhanced privacy feature for telephone systems
US5415416A (en) 1990-03-06 1995-05-16 Lottotron Inc. Computerized lottery wagering system
US5125024A (en) 1990-03-28 1992-06-23 At&T Bell Laboratories Voice response unit
JPH05284221A (en) 1990-04-05 1993-10-29 Texas Instr Inc <Ti> Method for approving access to remote communication service
JPH05284228A (en) 1990-04-05 1993-10-29 Texas Instr Inc <Ti> Method for approving access to telecommunication service
JPH05284203A (en) 1990-04-05 1993-10-29 Texas Instr Inc <Ti> Method and system for user interface for speaking based on telecommunication
US5222120A (en) 1990-04-23 1993-06-22 Mci Communications Corporation Long distance telephone switching system with enhanced subscriber services
CA2040724A1 (en) 1990-04-25 1991-10-26 James L. Flanagan Voice password controlled computer security system
US5303299A (en) 1990-05-15 1994-04-12 Vcs Industries, Inc. Method for continuous recognition of alphanumeric strings spoken over a telephone network
US5168548A (en) 1990-05-17 1992-12-01 Kurzweil Applied Intelligence, Inc. Integrated voice controlled report generating and communicating system
US5255183A (en) 1990-05-29 1993-10-19 Interactive Voice Data System Inc. Telephone-based personnel tracking system
US5164981A (en) 1990-06-04 1992-11-17 Davox Voice response system with automated data transfer
US5181236A (en) 1990-09-25 1993-01-19 Rockwell International Corporation Automatic call returning method for call distributor with message record capability
JPH05507396A (en) 1990-11-20 1993-10-21 テロケント コミュニケーションズ コーポレーション call processing system
US5327554A (en) 1990-11-29 1994-07-05 Palazzi Iii Michael A Interactive terminal for the access of remote database information
US5179585A (en) 1991-01-16 1993-01-12 Octel Communications Corporation Integrated voice messaging/voice response system
GB2252270B (en) 1991-01-30 1995-05-24 Wren Hilton Giles Martin Improvements in and relating to cards and like information stores
US5351276A (en) 1991-02-11 1994-09-27 Simpact Associates, Inc. Digital/audio interactive communication network
US5127003A (en) 1991-02-11 1992-06-30 Simpact Associates, Inc. Digital/audio interactive communication network
US5097528A (en) 1991-02-25 1992-03-17 International Business Machines Corporation System for integrating telephony data with data processing systems
GB2253542B (en) 1991-03-07 1995-04-26 Itech Limited Improvements in and relating to telephone systems
US5369685A (en) 1991-03-07 1994-11-29 Sprint Communications Company L.P. Voice-activated telephone directory and call placement system
US5309505A (en) 1991-05-20 1994-05-03 Inventions, Inc. Automated voice system for improving agent efficiency and improving service to parties on hold
US5333185A (en) 1991-06-03 1994-07-26 At&T Bell Laboratories System for processing calling party information for international communications services
US5236199A (en) 1991-06-13 1993-08-17 Thompson Jr John W Interactive media system and telecomputing method using telephone keypad signalling
US5186471A (en) 1991-06-21 1993-02-16 Nynex Corporation Interactive telephone gaming system
US5146491A (en) 1991-08-08 1992-09-08 Pilgrim Telephone, Inc. Telephone billing method
US5148474A (en) 1991-08-21 1992-09-15 Nancy Haralambopoulos Interactive value-added telecommunications system and method
US5354069A (en) 1992-01-21 1994-10-11 Ahbrew Company Lottery emulation system
US5418844A (en) 1992-04-17 1995-05-23 Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. Automatic access to information service providers
US5353335A (en) 1992-08-03 1994-10-04 At&T Bell Laboratories Multilingual prepaid telephone system
AU5014493A (en) 1992-08-14 1994-03-15 Dtmf Television, Inc. A participatory television system
GB9218134D0 (en) 1992-08-26 1992-10-14 Raychem Sa Nv Communication channel switching arrangement
US5561710A (en) 1992-11-17 1996-10-01 Helms; Ramon E. Interactive voice communication terminal with alpha and numeric keypad
US5490207A (en) 1994-01-21 1996-02-06 Schorr; Andrew Method of dispersing information and collecting data via telephone systems
US5475205A (en) 1994-06-22 1995-12-12 Scientific Games Inc. Document verification system
US5599046A (en) 1994-06-22 1997-02-04 Scientific Games Inc. Lottery ticket structure with circuit elements
US5709603A (en) 1995-04-06 1998-01-20 Kaye; Perry Personal computer lottery game

Patent Citations (50)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3022381A (en) * 1959-02-26 1962-02-20 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Credit card operated telephone
USRE30821E (en) * 1961-04-12 1981-12-08 Telecredit, Inc. Customer service unit
US3189687A (en) * 1962-02-02 1965-06-15 Charles G Miller Telephone switching system
US3564210A (en) * 1968-11-29 1971-02-16 Farrington Mfg Co Apparatus combining a variable amount imprinter with credit verification circuitry
US3985998A (en) * 1970-11-18 1976-10-12 Century International Corporation Personal authority verification system
US3652795A (en) * 1970-11-25 1972-03-28 Electrospace Corp Telephone transaction system
US3676597A (en) * 1970-12-28 1972-07-11 Bell Telephone Labor Inc Coin telephone non-coin service
US3727186A (en) * 1971-02-26 1973-04-10 Digital Data Syst Corp Method of and apparatus for credit verification
US3870866A (en) * 1971-11-11 1975-03-11 Halpern John Wolfgang Fee charging system
US3769463A (en) * 1972-02-28 1973-10-30 Lorbon Mfg Co Inc Electronic long-distance telephone call computer and recorder
US3938091A (en) * 1972-03-17 1976-02-10 Atalla Technovations Company Personal verification system
US3929278A (en) * 1973-02-23 1975-12-30 Crouzet Sa Prepayment apparatus with a coded ticket
US4097923A (en) * 1975-04-16 1978-06-27 Pitney-Bowes, Inc. Remote postage meter charging system using an advanced microcomputerized postage meter
US4028494A (en) * 1976-05-17 1977-06-07 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Escrow telephone coin collection circuit and method
US4367402A (en) * 1977-03-31 1983-01-04 Compagnie Internationale Pour L'informatique Cii-Honeywell Bull System for keeping account of predetermined homogeneous units
US4122308A (en) * 1977-06-03 1978-10-24 Utility Verification Corp. Telephone call metering device
US4139739A (en) * 1977-07-05 1979-02-13 Tdx Systems, Inc. Telecommunications call back system
US4204113A (en) * 1977-09-16 1980-05-20 Georges Giraud System for keeping account of predetermined homogenous units
US4467424A (en) * 1979-12-17 1984-08-21 Hedges Richard A Remote gaming system
US4449040A (en) * 1980-12-06 1984-05-15 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co. Identification code determining apparatus for use in transaction processing apparatus
US4501958A (en) * 1981-03-05 1985-02-26 Electronique Marcel Dassault Verification system, for example for passing through a toll point
US4410765A (en) * 1981-06-04 1983-10-18 United Networks, Inc. Telephone call routing and charging system
US4518824A (en) * 1981-06-09 1985-05-21 Urmet Sud S.P.A. Public telephone method and apparatus wherein the user's personal telephone number and a personal dialing code are used to effect debiting charges
US4513175A (en) * 1982-04-21 1985-04-23 Jayem Dialer Corp. Automatic calling systems for accessing communications networks
US4468529A (en) * 1982-04-21 1984-08-28 Jayem Dialer Corp. Programmable automatic calling systems
US4673802A (en) * 1983-02-23 1987-06-16 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co. System for making payments for transactions
US4580011A (en) * 1983-09-30 1986-04-01 Glaser Robert E Distributed processing telephone switching system
US4595983A (en) * 1983-10-27 1986-06-17 Reliance Electric Company Central office powered credit only telephone paystation
US4680785A (en) * 1983-11-11 1987-07-14 Nippo Communication Industrial Co., Ltd. Personal-signaling communication system
US5153906A (en) * 1983-11-11 1992-10-06 Nippo Communication Industrial Co., Ltd. Personal-servicing communication system
US4611096A (en) * 1983-12-01 1986-09-09 At&T Bell Laboratories Telephone office service assist and handoff
US4734858B1 (en) * 1983-12-05 1997-02-11 Portel Services Network Inc Data terminal and system for placing orders
US4734858A (en) * 1983-12-05 1988-03-29 Portel Services Network, Inc. Data terminal and system for placing orders
US4926996A (en) * 1983-12-06 1990-05-22 Mars Incorporated Two way communication token interrogation apparatus
US4792973A (en) * 1984-06-08 1988-12-20 M/A-Com Government Systems Inc. Selective enablement of descramblers
US4768222A (en) * 1984-11-22 1988-08-30 Rene Kalfon Control and surveillance system for prepayment public telephone apparatus
US4616852A (en) * 1984-11-26 1986-10-14 The Talman Home Federal Savings And Loan Association Of Illinois Money debit card application form and method of processing same
US4768223A (en) * 1985-03-08 1988-08-30 Tamura Electric Works, Ltd. Public telephone set with internal charge processing
US4879744A (en) * 1985-07-10 1989-11-07 Omron Tateisi Electronics Co. Card-operated telephone
US5251252A (en) * 1985-07-10 1993-10-05 First Data Resources Inc. Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity
US5898762A (en) * 1985-07-10 1999-04-27 Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US5917893A (en) * 1985-07-10 1999-06-29 Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Multiple format telephonic interface control system
US4897870A (en) * 1985-09-25 1990-01-30 Southlake Technologies, Inc. Network implemented pay telephone set
US4791640A (en) * 1985-10-21 1988-12-13 American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories Call charging arrangement
US4782519A (en) * 1986-05-22 1988-11-01 Network Access Corporation Method and apparatus for enhancing the operating capabilities of a telephone switching system
US5003585A (en) * 1986-07-18 1991-03-26 Louis Richer System for the payment of telephone calls in a private self-switching unit
US4870679A (en) * 1988-12-23 1989-09-26 American Telephone And Telegraph Company Repertory telephone dialer with remote billing capability
US4932042A (en) * 1989-03-03 1990-06-05 At&T Bell Laboratories Spontaneous voice and data messaging
US5068891A (en) * 1989-05-31 1991-11-26 Marshall Marvin E Credit control system for long distance telephone services
US5243643A (en) * 1990-11-01 1993-09-07 Voiceples Corporation Voice processing system with configurable caller interfaces

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6700972B1 (en) 1999-08-25 2004-03-02 Verizon Corporate Services Group Inc. System and method for processing and collecting data from a call directed to a call center

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20030068022A1 (en) 2003-04-10
US5359645A (en) 1994-10-25
US6570967B2 (en) 2003-05-27
US6335965B1 (en) 2002-01-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6570967B2 (en) Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US5224153A (en) Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US20020085693A1 (en) Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US5014298A (en) Voice-data telephonic control system
US5073929A (en) Voice-data telephonic control system
US20020085692A1 (en) Voice-data telephonic interface control system
US5974120A (en) Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity
EP0998107B1 (en) Interactive call-handling
US5917893A (en) Multiple format telephonic interface control system
US5815551A (en) Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US5561707A (en) Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US5351285A (en) Multiple format telephonic interface control system
US5128984A (en) Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity
US5259023A (en) Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US5251252A (en) Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity
US5403999A (en) Telecommunications systems for lotteries
US5048075A (en) Telephonic-interface statistical analysis system
US4922519A (en) Automated operator assistance calls with voice processing
US4930150A (en) Telephonic interface control system
EP0568114B1 (en) Data analysis systems and methods
US20020034283A1 (en) Voice-data telephonic interface control system
CA2040550A1 (en) Synthesized speech terminal system for data communication
US20020196915A1 (en) Telephone interface call processing system with call selectivity

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: EXPRESSLY ABANDONED -- DURING EXAMINATION