WO2005112484A1 - Method and apparatus for interconnecting telecommunication networks - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for interconnecting telecommunication networks Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2005112484A1
WO2005112484A1 PCT/IL2004/001014 IL2004001014W WO2005112484A1 WO 2005112484 A1 WO2005112484 A1 WO 2005112484A1 IL 2004001014 W IL2004001014 W IL 2004001014W WO 2005112484 A1 WO2005112484 A1 WO 2005112484A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
call
network
receiver
communication network
telecommunication device
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IL2004/001014
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Eliyahu Gabai
Etan Hamami
Aharon Mordechai Rosenfeld
Original Assignee
Eliyahu Gabai
Etan Hamami
Aharon Mordechai Rosenfeld
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
Priority claimed from IL16195804A external-priority patent/IL161958A0/xx
Priority claimed from IL16274804A external-priority patent/IL162748A0/en
Application filed by Eliyahu Gabai, Etan Hamami, Aharon Mordechai Rosenfeld filed Critical Eliyahu Gabai
Publication of WO2005112484A1 publication Critical patent/WO2005112484A1/en

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00—Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/24—Accounting or billing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M15/00—Arrangements for metering, time-control or time indication ; Metering, charging or billing arrangements for voice wireline or wireless communications, e.g. VoIP
    • H04M15/80—Rating or billing plans; Tariff determination aspects
    • H04M15/8044—Least cost routing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M7/00—Arrangements for interconnection between switching centres
    • H04M7/006—Networks other than PSTN/ISDN providing telephone service, e.g. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), including next generation networks with a packet-switched transport layer
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2207/00—Type of exchange or network, i.e. telephonic medium, in which the telephonic communication takes place
    • H04M2207/20—Type of exchange or network, i.e. telephonic medium, in which the telephonic communication takes place hybrid systems
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2215/00—Metering arrangements; Time controlling arrangements; Time indicating arrangements
    • H04M2215/42—Least cost routing, i.e. provision for selecting the lowest cost tariff
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2215/00—Metering arrangements; Time controlling arrangements; Time indicating arrangements
    • H04M2215/74—Rating aspects, e.g. rating parameters or tariff determination apects
    • H04M2215/745—Least cost routing, e.g. Automatic or manual, call by call or by preselection

Definitions

  • the invention relates to routing telephone call processing and switching, more particularly to equipment and methods for intelligent interconnection of calls across accounts on the same or different telecommunication providers.
  • PSTN public switched telephone networks
  • VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol
  • satellite communication networks there are traditional public switched telephone networks (PSTN): cellular (also called “mobile”) phone networks, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) networks, and satellite communication networks.
  • PSTN public switched telephone networks
  • VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol
  • service plans offering many ways to save money on calls.
  • the proliferation of networks and service plans has greatly increased opportunities for communicating.
  • Many users (whether they be individuals or entities like businesses) subscribe to more than one line on a network and/or more than one network.
  • an individual might have a PSTN line (traditional telephone line) account and several cellular phone accounts.
  • the PSTN account might be a trunk comprising multiple lines addressed to the business's phone number and terminating in a private automatic branch exchange (PABX) at the business that switches the lines to extensions at the business.
  • PABX private automatic branch exchange
  • the inventors do not know of prior art technologies that provide a simple, convenient solution to this type of problem of connecting network calls, particularly originating from a cellular phone.
  • the closest known technology requires the call originator to hang up, whereupon the prior art device calls him back.
  • the present invention solves these problems. It enables direct connection of a call from a cellular or other telecommunications device, both fixed and mobile. It optionally recognizes caller ID. It takes its power direct from a PSTN line and is lightweight and very small for portability.
  • the present invention provides several embodiments of a call router station, which solves the above problem in a unique and innovative way.
  • the invention also provides several embodiments of a method that can be implemented on its call router, or on similar equipment, that also solves this problem in a unique and innovative way.
  • the call router includes a port to a PSTN When the port receives a call from a call originator, it signals for a conference call to the
  • PSTN central exchange dials the call recipient, and signals the central exchange to connect to the two callers.
  • the result is that the call originator was able to take advantage of his PSTN service provider's service long distance discount rate from his cellular phone.
  • the principle of the call router of the present invention is to provide the user with a simple device and method for routing a call to another call on the same telecommunications network or another telecommunications network.
  • the invention can be used with any telecommunications network, including frequency division multiple access (FDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), code division multiple access (CDMA), global system for mobile communications (GSM), PSTN, VoIP, cable phone network, satellite network, personal communications system (PCS), advanced mobile phone service (AMPS), Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone System (NAMPS).
  • FDMA frequency division multiple access
  • TDMA time division multiple access
  • UMTS universal mobile telecommunications system
  • CDMA code division multiple access
  • GSM global system for mobile communications
  • PSTN global system for mobile communications
  • VoIP cable phone network
  • satellite network satellite network
  • PCS personal communications system
  • AMPS advanced mobile phone service
  • NAMPS Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone System
  • the routing is done using the network itself. This embodiment was illustrated by the example above, where the call router managed routing by the PSTN, the routing implemented as a conference call between the call originator and the call recipient.
  • the routing can also be done by the call router, which in this embodiment contains two or more ports to networks and connects between the ports, thereby routing a call from one port to another port.
  • the call router queries him for the call receiver number, dials it through a PSTN port via the low cost long distance provider, and then internally connects the cell call to the PSTN call.
  • a further advantage can sometimes be had in cases where a call originator experiences a poor quality connection to a call receiver. This sometimes occurs in cellular telecommunications.
  • the call originator can call the call router and try to connect to the call receiver from another port, with less noise or the call router can be implemented to make several calls over several ports (connected to different networks) to determine the one with the least noise and connect it to the call of the call originator.
  • the call router includes least cost routing logic, maintains a database of the rate structures of the connected networks, and applies the logic to determine the best port to which to route the call to the call receiver, taking into account the time of day and the date.
  • the call router may be connected to more than one network with support for long distance calling. In that case, the call router maintains a database of the rates and selects the port of the network that costs the least for the desired call.
  • the call router includes logic and updated database for grading networks for security and reliability to route the call to the most secure network.
  • speed is the highest priority, for example where the user needs to transmit large amounts of data
  • the call router is adapted maintain and use a database grading networks for speed to route the call to the fastest network.
  • the call router of the present invention is implemented using well-known programming libraries and modular hardware such as personal computer, modems, cellular adapters, and media processing boards.
  • the call router is implemented on a dedicated hardware and software platform.
  • This embodiment includes several innovations including, in the case where a
  • PSTN port is implemented, a power circuit that is supplied solely from the line, and where call interruption is accomplished either by a timeout triggered by a predetermined length of inactivity on the line or by generating a tone and detecting whether stations on the call are on hook based on the feedback.
  • Another innovation of the call router is the user registration mechanism, which is very simple and easy to use.
  • a goal of the present invention is to provide a means for reducing cost and improving quality of inter-network telecommunications.
  • a system for facilitating a low-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network wherein the system selects a least costly communication link
  • the system comprising: a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device.
  • the mobile communication network is a GSM network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is an FDMA network.
  • the mobile communication network is a TDMA network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is a CDMA network.
  • the mobile communication network is an AMPS network.
  • the mobile communication network is a NAMPS network.
  • the receiver communication network is a GSM network.
  • the receiver communication network is an FDMA network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a TDMA network.
  • the receiver communication network is a CDMA network.
  • the receiver communication network is an AMPS network.
  • the receiver communication network is a NAMPS network.
  • the receiver communication network is a VoIP network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a UMTS network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a PCS network.
  • the receiver communication network is a satellite network.
  • the system comprises a VoIP network instead of a mobile communication network.
  • At least some of the communication links are wire. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, at least some of the communication links are cable.
  • At least some of the communication links are optical.
  • At least some of the communication links are wireless.
  • the system is used for local calls.
  • the system is used for international cails. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for intra-office calls.
  • the system is used for PSTN calls.
  • the system is used for cellular calls.
  • the system is used for satellite calls. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for VoIP calls.
  • the system is used only for incoming calls. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used only for outgoing calls.
  • the system is used only for incoming calls.
  • the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the number of the receiver.
  • the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the length of the call. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the type of receiving communication network.
  • the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the cost of the call.
  • the processing unit checks for a recognition password before enabling a caller access to the system.
  • the processing unit checks a caller's caller ID before enabling access to the system. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit checks for a recognition password before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
  • the processing unit checks for a caller ID before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
  • the processing unit checks for a recognition caller ID before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit reports on the costs of operation, usage, call originator identity or extension, call receiver identity or extension, time of call, or length of call.
  • the processing unit records and plays back call content.
  • the system is installed in a private vehicle, public vehicle, airplane, ship, truck, or van.
  • the system further comprises protection from disruptions due to electrostatic weather conditions.
  • the processing unit detects the location of the mobile telecommunication device. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit detects the location of the mobile telecommunication device and communicate that information to a rescue team. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the database comprises information about the security of the communication links and the processing unit selects the most secure communication link, based on the information in the database. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system detects most secure communication link and selects that link.
  • the system detects least noisy communication link and selects that link.
  • the router is connected to another router.
  • the system is connected to an extension of a PABX. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is connected to a cellular adapter.
  • the system is connected to an Internet phone.
  • the least costly routing calculation takes into account the time of day and the date.
  • an apparatus for low-cost calling between a mobile telecommunication device and a receiver telecommunication device, communicating via a receiver communication network, wherein the system selects a least costly communication link comprising: Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system for minimizing communication cost of a call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a PSTN, the system comprising a control unit linked to a line of the PSTN, for connecting the call via the PSTN to the receiver telecommunication device in a conference call mode.
  • control unit is powered from the PSTN line.
  • system further comprises caller ID recognition for controlling access to the system.
  • the system further comprises a user-operated switch whereby a caller can call the unit from a telecommunication device and operate the switch, causing the system to register the caller ID of the telecommunication device.
  • the telecommunication device is a mobile telecommunication device.
  • the system further comprises a mechanism for determining whether to end the call, the mechanism comprising: a tone detector for detecting silence on the line; a clock for timing a predetermined length of silence followed by a predetermined timeout; a tone generator for signaling, after the timeout, to close the call circuits for both devices.
  • the system further comprises a mechanism for determining whether to end the call, the mechanism comprising: a tone generator for generating a tone; a feedback detector for measuring the level of the feedback to the tone; wherein a high level indicates that both devices have disconnected, a medium level indicates that one of the devices has disconnected, and a low level indicates that both devices are still connected.
  • a method for facilitating a low-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network by selecting a least costly communication link comprising: providing a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the first mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a general view of calling devices connected through their networks to a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 illustrates one generic configuration of a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 illustrates a sample configuration of a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is a block diagram of a dedicated call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5 is a list of the steps in a method for conference call calling through a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention provides a call router for calling between telecommunication networks.
  • the invention includes both a device, referred to herein as a call router, and a method that can be implemented on similar devices.
  • Figure 1 illustrates the context in which the present invention operates.
  • Various telecommunication devices such as a Cellular (Mobile) Phone
  • a Cellular Network 54 (which could be FDMA, TDMA, CDMA, GSM, AMPS, NAMPS, UMTS or other), a PSTN, and a TCP/IP Network.
  • Virtually any telecommunication network can be connected to call router 32, including satellite phone, optical, cable, etc.
  • the Call Router 32 of the present invention which can be a dedicated device as present in this specification or a similar device programmed to implement the method disclosed in this specification, has a port allocated to a network address on each of these networks.
  • ports connected to the cellular network comprise a cellular modem or adapter subscribed to a cellular telephone number
  • ports connected to PSTN are modems connected to lines subscribed to a PSTN telephone number
  • ports connected to the TCP/IP network are ports with an IP address.
  • Call Router 32 is therefore able to receive and originate calls on each network to which it is connected.
  • FIG. 2 is an example of one generic configuration of a Call Router 32 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Processing Unit 22 is programmed or hardwired to perform switching between telecommunication networks and can be programmed to perform various auxiliary activities and optimizations such as logging, subscriber identification, billing, least cost routing, most-secure network routing, fastest network routing, etc. It can also be programmed to restrict access to the ports of Call Router 32, for example making a port dial-in only or dial-out only.
  • Processing Unit 22 stores data in Memory 32 could be the central processing unit (CPU) of a personal computer (PC) programmed for the task.
  • CPU central processing unit
  • PC personal computer
  • Call router 32 further comprises - Interfaces (12, 13, 14) to various telecommunications networks.
  • the number of hardware interfaces is determined by the number of networks.
  • Each hardware interface has a communications connection to Processing Unit 22 for the purposes of enabling Processing Unit 22 to control the hardware interface operation.
  • the hardware interfaces connect to entry points of the various connected Networks 11 , 16, or 17.
  • the entry point for a PSTN network could be a subscriber line jack or phone connected to same; for a cellular network the entry point could be a cellular phone; for a satellite network the entry point could be a satellite transceiver, etc.
  • the call comprises two calls: a first call from Call Originator 10 through call originator Network 11 to Call Originator interface 12 and a second call from 1st (or 2nd) Call Receiver Interface 14 (or 15) through Call Receiver Network 16 (or 17) to Call Receiver 18 (or 19).
  • the internal connection between the calls is made by Processing Unit 22.
  • Processing unit 22 is also connected via communications link to Updater 13, which is a point of access to the control software running on Processing Unit 22 for purposes of management, updating database info, data collection, configuration, etc.
  • Updater 13 is a point of access to the control software running on Processing Unit 22 for purposes of management, updating database info, data collection, configuration, etc.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a sample implementation of a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention where the call router is implemented with off-the shelf components housed in a PC, the components including modem(s) and/or cellular phone adapter(s) and media processing board(s).
  • a call originator calls Call Router 32 via the local PSTN 30.
  • the call is received by Modem 20 and detected by Media Processing Board 34 which notifies PC CPU (central processing unit) 27.
  • PC CPU 27 runs software that instructs Media Processing Board 34 to answer the call, optionally verifies the call originator identification (ID), optionally debits the call originator account, and queries the call originator for the call receiver number, storing the number in memory 36.
  • ID call originator identification
  • PC CPU 27 selects the appropriate modem for the call. For example, if the call receiver number is on a GSM network, PC CPU 27 selects GSM Modem 26 and instructs Media Processing Board 34 to call the call receiver number over GSM Cellular Network 28. PC CPU 27 also opens a communication channel via Media Processing Board 34 between Standard Modem 20 and GSM Modem 26.
  • the embodiment shown in Figure 3 can be modified to include more interfaces to more networks and to include various call processing algorithms including least-cost-routing (CPU 27 determines the least expensive network for the call and makes the call via that network), most-secure routing (CPU determines the most secure network and calls call receiver on that network), fastest-connection routing (CPU makes call on fastest network), etc.
  • least-cost-routing CPU 27 determines the least expensive network for the call and makes the call via that network
  • most-secure routing CPU determines the most secure network and calls call receiver on that network
  • fastest-connection routing CPU makes call on fastest network
  • the device of the current invention can be implemented by one skilled in the art, who has understood the principles outlined in this specification, using off-the-shelf modular hardware such as a personal computer with modems or adapters for connecting to PSTN, cellular, satellite, VoIP, and other telecommunication networks and with one or more media processing boards for managing the calls.
  • An example of such boards are Dialogic (R) Media Processing Boards produced by Intel Corp. These boards are provided with computer telephony application development environments, which provide a programmer with high level language libraries for implementing the methods of the present invention.
  • the call router is implemented on a " dedicated hardware and software platform.
  • This implementation is built from the ground up to support specifically the present invention and as such can be manufactured at a much lower cost, weighs much less, and has a much smaller form-factor - smaller than a pack of cigarettes.
  • the dedicated embodiment is easy to operate and is supplied with power directly from a PSTN - no need for an external power supply.
  • the dedicated unit includes a data port for downloading billing information to a server and uploading to the device system information such as updated least call routing information.
  • Figure 4 is a block diagram of a dedicated call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the current invention.
  • This embodiment is a dedicated call router with a single PSTN- connection that switches an incoming call from a call originator to a call receiver by utilizing the conference call service of the PSTN central exchange.
  • the design shown can be easily modified to include more interfaces to telecommunication networks (including all types of cellular network, satellite, VoIP, etc.) and to implement the call routing algorithms described earlier in this specification (from one network to another, least cost routing, least-noise routing, fastest-connection routing, etc.). Ringing of incoming call puts the AC ring voltage into Ringing Power
  • the Energy Holder 210 which can be a capacitor, battery, or other voltage storage component. Voltage from Energy Holder 210 passes through Regulator 212 and is supplied to various energy consuming parts of the system, such as Microcontroller 216, Caller Identification Detector 214, etc. Initial system power is thus supplied by ringing of call. Ringing Power Supply 206 also delivers Ring Detected signal to Microcontroller 216. Line voltage and current also goes through the Line Polarity Bridge 208. Which incoming line signal is tip and which is ring is not known, so Line Polarity Bridge 208 is provided to ensure that positive polarity and negative polarity voltages are aligned as expected for the circuit.
  • Caller Identification (ID) Detector 214 detects Caller ID of call and sends to Microcontroller 216 for verification (e.g., that caller is allowed to use device).
  • Microcontroller 216 includes processor, system software, memory (RAM, nonvolatile RAM (Flash), ROM), Timers, Analog to Digital Converter, Voice Codec and Inputs/Outputs for various other components.
  • Caller Identification (ID) Detector 214 could be implemented by a modem that receives SMS messages from the telephone line to Microcontroller 216 to call back the sender or configure device parameters. In this case this modem could communicate with another modem via the Telephone line for purposes of reporting various device usage & configuring the device or ordering it to call back to a certain number at a certain time.
  • ID Caller Identification
  • Line Power Supply 222 supplies current from the line depends on the line voltage. When the line voltage drops below a predefined level, assuming that another device is connected to the Telephone line and sinks current from the line (off Hook), Line Power Supply 222 sinks also some current to supply initial power to the system. Then Microcontroller 216 listens to DTMF signals on the line using Receiver 226 to determine whether someone picks up the phone, in case there is no need to call again to the device.
  • Caller ID detection is optional. Alternatives are no detection (all callers are allowed to use device) or password verification as described below.
  • Microcontroller 216 sends Switch Control signal to close Switch 218, which in turn sends off hook signal to the line (to the central exchange) and sends signal to light LED 234 indicating call in progress.
  • Switch 218 Once Switch 218 is closed, current flows from Telephone line terminals via Line Polarity Bridge 208 Line Impedance Unit 220 and Switch 218 which indicates to central exchange that unit is off hook.
  • system can prompt user for password by generating unique tone on the line by Tone Generator 224 or playing a voice recording from Microcontroller ROM.
  • Microcontroller 216 also sends Line Power Supply Control signal Line
  • the Line Power Supply Control signal from the Microcontroller 216 controls the amount of current that should be taken by Line Power Supply 222 from the line to Energy Holder 210,accordind to the amount of energy that stored in Energy Holder 210 and Line voltage detected by Microcontroller 216.
  • the amount of current can be higher when Switch 218 is closed because the system already sinks current from the Telephone line.
  • Microcontroller 216 queries call originator for number of call receiver by a tone from Tone Generator 224 or playing a human voice recording.
  • DTMF Receiver 226 detects the tones of the digits comprising the call receiver number provided by the call originator and, once a predefined period of silence has passed, assumes that it has received the entire number and sends the number to Microcontroller 216 for storage in RAM.
  • Microcontroller 216 rapidly opens and closes Switch 218 to send flash signal to central exchange, which responds by putting call originator on hold and providing unit with dial tone for dialing third station (call receiver).
  • Microcontroller 216 reads call receiver number from RAM and sends to DTMF Transmitter 228 for transmission to the line.
  • Microcontroller 216 waits a predetermined time for Tone Detector 230 to detect response from line (busy, ring, etc.). Then Microcontroller 216 flashes again via Switch 218, telling the central exchange bring the call originator back onto the line, thereby connecting the call originator to the call receiver.
  • the call router waits to detect that one or both of the callers has gone on hook. This can be done several ways. A few known ways are the following: One of the callers hits a predetermined key sequence signifying call termination, which is detected by Tone Detector 230. After a predetermined timeout, Microcontroller 216 sends a termination warning sound via Tone Generator 224 and, if no caller responds with cancel termination tone, proceeds to go on hook.
  • the present invention optionally provides two novel methods whereby the call router of the present invention can detect that one or both of the callers has gone on hook:
  • Tone Generator 224 After timeout or periodically or a predetermined period of silence, Tone Generator 224 generates a tone and Tone Detector 230 analyzes the feedback from the line with the following possible results: - If the feedback voltage is high, both callers have disconnected. - If the feedback voltage is medium, one of the callers has gone on hook - the level of the voltage indicates which caller. - If the feedback voltage is low, both callers are still connected.
  • the present invention optionally also provides a novel method for registering a user with the call router.
  • User calls call router number from a phone that user wants to register with the call router.
  • When unit answers user presses on Button Switch 236, causing Microcontroller 216 to record user's caller ID into its nonvolatile RAM. If unit doesn't include caller ID, Microcontroller 216 prompts user for password and records it into its nonvolatile Ram.
  • the present invention optionally have a Floating TX/RX serial Port 238, Like RS232 USB BlueTooth, Ethernet or other, That provides a way to communicate with other devices for any purpose including voice data reporting device usage and parameters configuration.
  • voice should pass to and from another device or network via the Floating TX/RX serial Port 238 and via Microcontroller 216 to the Telephone line
  • Microcontroller 216 Codec should convert the serial voice data to and from the analog voice of the Telephone line.
  • the method of the present invention is to route calls from one network to another via the call router device of the present invention, whether implemented off-the-shelf or dedicated as has been described, or via a similar device.
  • the method of the present invention can be implemented several ways: by routing a call received via a line to a PSTN back through the PSTN using conference call signaling or by routing it to another network connection on the call router.
  • the conference call embodiment of the method of the present invention for routing calls is implemented by the following actions of the call router: 100 waits for incoming call on the user's PSTN line, 102 answers the user calling from his cell phone (call originator) or other telecommunication device, 104 (optionally recognizes the user caller ID or password- verifies the user), 106 queries the call originator for the desired long distance call recipient's (call receiver) phone number, 108 flash signals the PSTN central office to set up a conference call (three-station call), which causes the central office to put the call originator (first station) on hold and open a line so that the call router (second station) can add the call receiver (third station) to the call, 110 sends dual-tone multifrequency (DTMF) signals (also called dial signaling) to the PSTN central office to connect
  • the method and system of the current invention can be adapted to implement various call access requirements, for example: restrict usage of the system based on the number of the receiver. - restrict usage of the system based on the length of the call. restrict usage of the system based on the type of receiving communication network. restrict usage of the system based on the cost of the call. - require recognition password for access to the system. require recognition caller ID for access to the system.
  • the method and system of the current invention can be adapted to implement various call data collection, for example: report on the costs of operation, usage, call originator identity or extension, call receiver identity or extension, time of call, or length of call. record and playback call content.
  • the system of claim 1 adapted installed in a private vehicle, public vehicle, airplane, ship, truck, or van. include protection from disruptions due electrostatic weather conditions. detect the location of the mobile telecommunication device. - detect the location of the mobile telecommunication device and communicate that information to a rescue team.
  • the method and system of the current invention can be connected to a number of other devices, including: another call router an extension of a PABX a cellular adapter an Internet phone.
  • the call router of the current invention can be connected to another call router and used in daisy chain fashion. It should be clear that the description of the embodiments and attached

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Abstract

A system for facilitating a Iow-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network. The system selects a least costly communication link. The system comprises: a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INTERCONNECTING TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to routing telephone call processing and switching, more particularly to equipment and methods for intelligent interconnection of calls across accounts on the same or different telecommunication providers.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
The modern telecommunications industry is typified by a vast diversity of networks. To name just a few, there are traditional public switched telephone networks (PSTN): cellular (also called "mobile") phone networks, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) networks, and satellite communication networks. In addition, there is a broad range of service plans offering many ways to save money on calls. The proliferation of networks and service plans has greatly increased opportunities for communicating. Many users (whether they be individuals or entities like businesses) subscribe to more than one line on a network and/or more than one network. For example, an individual might have a PSTN line (traditional telephone line) account and several cellular phone accounts. In the case of a business, the PSTN account might be a trunk comprising multiple lines addressed to the business's phone number and terminating in a private automatic branch exchange (PABX) at the business that switches the lines to extensions at the business.
There are times when a user will benefit from being able to switch a call on a first network to a second call on the same or a second network.
Consider the case where a user has a service plan with a long distance service provider that entitles the user to low rates for long distance calls made from a PSTN phone. Now assume the user is away from home, on a train perhaps, and wishes to call a long distance number. He has his cellular phone but does not have access to the long distance service provider from the cellular network, therefore he is unable to benefit from his arrangement for reduced long distance rates until he can access a PSTN phone.
The inventors do not know of prior art technologies that provide a simple, convenient solution to this type of problem of connecting network calls, particularly originating from a cellular phone. The closest known technology requires the call originator to hang up, whereupon the prior art device calls him back.
Another lack in the prior art technology is that it does not automatically recognize the caller identification (ID). The caller has to enter a password.
Also, the prior art requires an external supply and is physically not convenient for portable use. The present invention solves these problems. It enables direct connection of a call from a cellular or other telecommunications device, both fixed and mobile. It optionally recognizes caller ID. It takes its power direct from a PSTN line and is lightweight and very small for portability.
The present invention provides several embodiments of a call router station, which solves the above problem in a unique and innovative way. The invention also provides several embodiments of a method that can be implemented on its call router, or on similar equipment, that also solves this problem in a unique and innovative way.
In a preferred embodiment of a call router station according to the present invention, the call router includes a port to a PSTN When the port receives a call from a call originator, it signals for a conference call to the
PSTN central exchange, dials the call recipient, and signals the central exchange to connect to the two callers. The result is that the call originator was able to take advantage of his PSTN service provider's service long distance discount rate from his cellular phone.
It can be seen that this potentially can offer the user significant savings. The principle of the call router of the present invention is to provide the user with a simple device and method for routing a call to another call on the same telecommunications network or another telecommunications network.
The invention can be used with any telecommunications network, including frequency division multiple access (FDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), code division multiple access (CDMA), global system for mobile communications (GSM), PSTN, VoIP, cable phone network, satellite network, personal communications system (PCS), advanced mobile phone service (AMPS), Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone System (NAMPS). The connections to the invention can be wire, wireless, cable, optical, etc.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the routing is done using the network itself. This embodiment was illustrated by the example above, where the call router managed routing by the PSTN, the routing implemented as a conference call between the call originator and the call recipient.
In another preferred embodiment of the present invention the routing can also be done by the call router, which in this embodiment contains two or more ports to networks and connects between the ports, thereby routing a call from one port to another port. To take again the example of the train-bound user of a cell phone, he could also elect to call a cellular phone number on a cellular modem (port) in the call router, the call router queries him for the call receiver number, dials it through a PSTN port via the low cost long distance provider, and then internally connects the cell call to the PSTN call.
In this embodiment, where more than one port is used, a further advantage can sometimes be had in cases where a call originator experiences a poor quality connection to a call receiver. This sometimes occurs in cellular telecommunications. In such a case, the call originator can call the call router and try to connect to the call receiver from another port, with less noise or the call router can be implemented to make several calls over several ports (connected to different networks) to determine the one with the least noise and connect it to the call of the call originator.
In another preferred embodiment of the present invention the call router includes least cost routing logic, maintains a database of the rate structures of the connected networks, and applies the logic to determine the best port to which to route the call to the call receiver, taking into account the time of day and the date. For example, the call router may be connected to more than one network with support for long distance calling. In that case, the call router maintains a database of the rates and selects the port of the network that costs the least for the desired call. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention where greater security is required, for example where the user needs to transmit confidential military information, the call router includes logic and updated database for grading networks for security and reliability to route the call to the most secure network. Similarly, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention where speed is the highest priority, for example where the user needs to transmit large amounts of data, the call router is adapted maintain and use a database grading networks for speed to route the call to the fastest network.
In a preferred embodiment of the call router of the present invention, it is implemented using well-known programming libraries and modular hardware such as personal computer, modems, cellular adapters, and media processing boards.
In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the call router is implemented on a dedicated hardware and software platform. This embodiment includes several innovations including, in the case where a
PSTN port is implemented, a power circuit that is supplied solely from the line, and where call interruption is accomplished either by a timeout triggered by a predetermined length of inactivity on the line or by generating a tone and detecting whether stations on the call are on hook based on the feedback. Another innovation of the call router is the user registration mechanism, which is very simple and easy to use.
It is therefore, a goal of the present invention is to provide a means for reducing cost and improving quality of inter-network telecommunications.
It is a further goal of the present invention to enable inter-network switching of a call originating on a cellular telecommunications device. It is a further goal of the present invention to enable switching of calls from a cellular telecommunication network to the same or other networks.
It is a further goal of the present invention to enable conference calling via an intermediary.
It is a further goal of the present invention to enable switching of calls between all types of telecommunication networks, including VoIP.
It is a further goal of the present invention to enable least-cost-routing of calls between all types of telecommunication networks.
It is a further goal of the present invention to enable most-secure network routing of calls between all types of telecommunication networks. It is a further goal of the present invention to enable fastest-network routing of calls between all types of telecommunication networks.
It is a further goal of the present invention to provide a dedicated call router device.
It is a further goal of the present invention to provide a call router with power taken from a PSTN line. It is a further goal of the present invention to provide a call router where detection of call interruption is accomplished by a timeout triggered by a predetermined length of inactivity on the line.
It is a further goal of the present invention to provide a call router where detection of call interruption is accomplished by generating a tone and detecting whether stations on the call are on hook based on the line feedback.
It is a further goal of the present invention to provide a call router with caller registration accomplished by a caller calling the device and pressing a button on the device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
There is thus provided, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, a system for facilitating a low-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network, wherein the system selects a least costly communication link, the system comprising: a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is a GSM network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is an FDMA network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is a TDMA network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is a CDMA network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is an AMPS network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the mobile communication network is a NAMPS network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a GSM network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is an FDMA network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a TDMA network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a CDMA network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is an AMPS network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a NAMPS network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a VoIP network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a UMTS network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a PCS network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the receiver communication network is a satellite network. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system comprises a VoIP network instead of a mobile communication network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, at least some of the communication links are wire. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, at least some of the communication links are cable.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, at least some of the communication links are optical.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, at least some of the communication links are wireless.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for local calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for international cails. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for intra-office calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for PSTN calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for cellular calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for satellite calls. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used for VoIP calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used only for incoming calls. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used only for outgoing calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is used only for incoming calls.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the number of the receiver.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the length of the call. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the type of receiving communication network.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the cost of the call.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit checks for a recognition password before enabling a caller access to the system.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit checks a caller's caller ID before enabling access to the system. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit checks for a recognition password before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit checks for a caller ID before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit checks for a recognition caller ID before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit reports on the costs of operation, usage, call originator identity or extension, call receiver identity or extension, time of call, or length of call.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit records and plays back call content.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is installed in a private vehicle, public vehicle, airplane, ship, truck, or van.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises protection from disruptions due to electrostatic weather conditions.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit detects the location of the mobile telecommunication device. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the processing unit detects the location of the mobile telecommunication device and communicate that information to a rescue team. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the database comprises information about the security of the communication links and the processing unit selects the most secure communication link, based on the information in the database. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system detects most secure communication link and selects that link.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system detects least noisy communication link and selects that link.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the router is connected to another router.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is connected to an extension of a PABX. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is connected to a cellular adapter.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system is connected to an Internet phone.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the least costly routing calculation takes into account the time of day and the date.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for low-cost calling between a mobile telecommunication device and a receiver telecommunication device, communicating via a receiver communication network, wherein the system selects a least costly communication link, the system comprising: Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a system for minimizing communication cost of a call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a PSTN, the system comprising a control unit linked to a line of the PSTN, for connecting the call via the PSTN to the receiver telecommunication device in a conference call mode.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the control unit is powered from the PSTN line. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises caller ID recognition for controlling access to the system.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises a user-operated switch whereby a caller can call the unit from a telecommunication device and operate the switch, causing the system to register the caller ID of the telecommunication device.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the telecommunication device is a mobile telecommunication device.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises a mechanism for determining whether to end the call, the mechanism comprising: a tone detector for detecting silence on the line; a clock for timing a predetermined length of silence followed by a predetermined timeout; a tone generator for signaling, after the timeout, to close the call circuits for both devices. Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises a mechanism for determining whether to end the call, the mechanism comprising: a tone generator for generating a tone; a feedback detector for measuring the level of the feedback to the tone; wherein a high level indicates that both devices have disconnected, a medium level indicates that one of the devices has disconnected, and a low level indicates that both devices are still connected.
Furthermore, in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method for facilitating a low-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network by selecting a least costly communication link, the method comprising: providing a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the first mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
The invention is described herein, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which like components are designated by like reference numerals. Figure 1 illustrates a general view of calling devices connected through their networks to a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 illustrates one generic configuration of a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 illustrates a sample configuration of a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a block diagram of a dedicated call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a list of the steps in a method for conference call calling through a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a call router for calling between telecommunication networks. The invention includes both a device, referred to herein as a call router, and a method that can be implemented on similar devices.
Figure 1 illustrates the context in which the present invention operates. Various telecommunication devices, such as a Cellular (Mobile) Phone
52, Telephone Handset 56, and a Personal Computer (PC) running a VoIP Internet Application 60 are connected to various networks, respectively: a Cellular Network 54 (which could be FDMA, TDMA, CDMA, GSM, AMPS, NAMPS, UMTS or other), a PSTN, and a TCP/IP Network. Virtually any telecommunication network can be connected to call router 32, including satellite phone, optical, cable, etc.
The Call Router 32 of the present invention, which can be a dedicated device as present in this specification or a similar device programmed to implement the method disclosed in this specification, has a port allocated to a network address on each of these networks. In the example shown, ports connected to the cellular network comprise a cellular modem or adapter subscribed to a cellular telephone number, ports connected to PSTN are modems connected to lines subscribed to a PSTN telephone number, and ports connected to the TCP/IP network are ports with an IP address.
Call Router 32 is therefore able to receive and originate calls on each network to which it is connected.
Figure 2 is an example of one generic configuration of a Call Router 32 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Processing Unit 22 is programmed or hardwired to perform switching between telecommunication networks and can be programmed to perform various auxiliary activities and optimizations such as logging, subscriber identification, billing, least cost routing, most-secure network routing, fastest network routing, etc. It can also be programmed to restrict access to the ports of Call Router 32, for example making a port dial-in only or dial-out only. Processing Unit 22 stores data in Memory 32 could be the central processing unit (CPU) of a personal computer (PC) programmed for the task.
Call router 32 further comprises - Interfaces (12, 13, 14) to various telecommunications networks. The number of hardware interfaces is determined by the number of networks. Each hardware interface has a communications connection to Processing Unit 22 for the purposes of enabling Processing Unit 22 to control the hardware interface operation.
The hardware interfaces connect to entry points of the various connected Networks 11 , 16, or 17. For example, the entry point for a PSTN network could be a subscriber line jack or phone connected to same; for a cellular network the entry point could be a cellular phone; for a satellite network the entry point could be a satellite transceiver, etc.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the call comprises two calls: a first call from Call Originator 10 through call originator Network 11 to Call Originator interface 12 and a second call from 1st (or 2nd) Call Receiver Interface 14 (or 15) through Call Receiver Network 16 (or 17) to Call Receiver 18 (or 19). The internal connection between the calls is made by Processing Unit 22.
Other configurations of the present invention are possible. For example, instead of having three ports as shown in the figure, there could be just a single PSTN port, in which case a call to that port can be routed by signaling the PSTN conference call service, as is described later in this specification. Another configuration is where Call Router 32 operates in both directions, in other words, Call Receiver Interfaces 14 and 15 can also be used to receive the call originator's call and Call Receiver Interface 12 can also be used to dial the call receiver.
Processing unit 22 is also connected via communications link to Updater 13, which is a point of access to the control software running on Processing Unit 22 for purposes of management, updating database info, data collection, configuration, etc.
Figure 3 illustrates a sample implementation of a call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention where the call router is implemented with off-the shelf components housed in a PC, the components including modem(s) and/or cellular phone adapter(s) and media processing board(s).. A call originator calls Call Router 32 via the local PSTN 30. The call is received by Modem 20 and detected by Media Processing Board 34 which notifies PC CPU (central processing unit) 27. PC CPU 27 runs software that instructs Media Processing Board 34 to answer the call, optionally verifies the call originator identification (ID), optionally debits the call originator account, and queries the call originator for the call receiver number, storing the number in memory 36. Based on the call receiver number, PC CPU 27 selects the appropriate modem for the call. For example, if the call receiver number is on a GSM network, PC CPU 27 selects GSM Modem 26 and instructs Media Processing Board 34 to call the call receiver number over GSM Cellular Network 28. PC CPU 27 also opens a communication channel via Media Processing Board 34 between Standard Modem 20 and GSM Modem 26.
At that point the call originator hears the ringing of the 'call being made on the cellular network and once the call receiver picks up, the call proceeds as if the call originator had dialed the call receiver directly. The embodiment shown in Figure 3 can be modified to include more interfaces to more networks and to include various call processing algorithms including least-cost-routing (CPU 27 determines the least expensive network for the call and makes the call via that network), most-secure routing (CPU determines the most secure network and calls call receiver on that network), fastest-connection routing (CPU makes call on fastest network), etc.
As Figure 3 illustrated, the device of the current invention can be implemented by one skilled in the art, who has understood the principles outlined in this specification, using off-the-shelf modular hardware such as a personal computer with modems or adapters for connecting to PSTN, cellular, satellite, VoIP, and other telecommunication networks and with one or more media processing boards for managing the calls. An example of such boards are Dialogic (R) Media Processing Boards produced by Intel Corp. These boards are provided with computer telephony application development environments, which provide a programmer with high level language libraries for implementing the methods of the present invention.
In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the call router is implemented on a "dedicated hardware and software platform. This implementation is built from the ground up to support specifically the present invention and as such can be manufactured at a much lower cost, weighs much less, and has a much smaller form-factor - smaller than a pack of cigarettes. The dedicated embodiment is easy to operate and is supplied with power directly from a PSTN - no need for an external power supply. The dedicated unit includes a data port for downloading billing information to a server and uploading to the device system information such as updated least call routing information. Figure 4 is a block diagram of a dedicated call router in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the current invention. This embodiment is a dedicated call router with a single PSTN- connection that switches an incoming call from a call originator to a call receiver by utilizing the conference call service of the PSTN central exchange. The design shown can be easily modified to include more interfaces to telecommunication networks (including all types of cellular network, satellite, VoIP, etc.) and to implement the call routing algorithms described earlier in this specification (from one network to another, least cost routing, least-noise routing, fastest-connection routing, etc.). Ringing of incoming call puts the AC ring voltage into Ringing Power
Supply 206, which delivers the pulse ring power to the Energy Holder 210, which can be a capacitor, battery, or other voltage storage component. Voltage from Energy Holder 210 passes through Regulator 212 and is supplied to various energy consuming parts of the system, such as Microcontroller 216, Caller Identification Detector 214, etc. Initial system power is thus supplied by ringing of call. Ringing Power Supply 206 also delivers Ring Detected signal to Microcontroller 216. Line voltage and current also goes through the Line Polarity Bridge 208. Which incoming line signal is tip and which is ring is not known, so Line Polarity Bridge 208 is provided to ensure that positive polarity and negative polarity voltages are aligned as expected for the circuit.
After a predefined number of rings (so defined so that if desired, the call can be picked up by a user, a fax, an answering machine, etc.), optional
Caller Identification (ID) Detector 214 detects Caller ID of call and sends to Microcontroller 216 for verification (e.g., that caller is allowed to use device).
Microcontroller 216 includes processor, system software, memory (RAM, nonvolatile RAM (Flash), ROM), Timers, Analog to Digital Converter, Voice Codec and Inputs/Outputs for various other components.
Caller Identification (ID) Detector 214 could be implemented by a modem that receives SMS messages from the telephone line to Microcontroller 216 to call back the sender or configure device parameters. In this case this modem could communicate with another modem via the Telephone line for purposes of reporting various device usage & configuring the device or ordering it to call back to a certain number at a certain time.
Line Power Supply 222 supplies current from the line depends on the line voltage. When the line voltage drops below a predefined level, assuming that another device is connected to the Telephone line and sinks current from the line (off Hook), Line Power Supply 222 sinks also some current to supply initial power to the system. Then Microcontroller 216 listens to DTMF signals on the line using Receiver 226 to determine whether someone picks up the phone, in case there is no need to call again to the device.
Caller ID detection is optional. Alternatives are no detection (all callers are allowed to use device) or password verification as described below.
Unless caller ID or password entered are invalid, Microcontroller 216 sends Switch Control signal to close Switch 218, which in turn sends off hook signal to the line (to the central exchange) and sends signal to light LED 234 indicating call in progress. Once Switch 218 is closed, current flows from Telephone line terminals via Line Polarity Bridge 208 Line Impedance Unit 220 and Switch 218 which indicates to central exchange that unit is off hook.
If desired, system can prompt user for password by generating unique tone on the line by Tone Generator 224 or playing a voice recording from Microcontroller ROM.
Microcontroller 216 also sends Line Power Supply Control signal Line
Power Supply 222, which accumulates trickle current from line in Energy
Holder 210. The Line Power Supply Control signal from the Microcontroller 216 controls the amount of current that should be taken by Line Power Supply 222 from the line to Energy Holder 210,accordind to the amount of energy that stored in Energy Holder 210 and Line voltage detected by Microcontroller 216. The amount of current can be higher when Switch 218 is closed because the system already sinks current from the Telephone line. Microcontroller 216 queries call originator for number of call receiver by a tone from Tone Generator 224 or playing a human voice recording.
DTMF Receiver 226 detects the tones of the digits comprising the call receiver number provided by the call originator and, once a predefined period of silence has passed, assumes that it has received the entire number and sends the number to Microcontroller 216 for storage in RAM.
Microcontroller 216 rapidly opens and closes Switch 218 to send flash signal to central exchange, which responds by putting call originator on hold and providing unit with dial tone for dialing third station (call receiver).
Microcontroller 216 reads call receiver number from RAM and sends to DTMF Transmitter 228 for transmission to the line.
Microcontroller 216 waits a predetermined time for Tone Detector 230 to detect response from line (busy, ring, etc.). Then Microcontroller 216 flashes again via Switch 218, telling the central exchange bring the call originator back onto the line, thereby connecting the call originator to the call receiver.
The call router waits to detect that one or both of the callers has gone on hook. This can be done several ways. A few known ways are the following: One of the callers hits a predetermined key sequence signifying call termination, which is detected by Tone Detector 230. After a predetermined timeout, Microcontroller 216 sends a termination warning sound via Tone Generator 224 and, if no caller responds with cancel termination tone, proceeds to go on hook. The present invention optionally provides two novel methods whereby the call router of the present invention can detect that one or both of the callers has gone on hook: The predetermined timeout method described above with the addition that the timeout period only starts after Voice Level Detector 232 detects a predetermined period of silence by measuring the alternating current (AC) voltage level of the line. After timeout or periodically or a predetermined period of silence, Tone Generator 224 generates a tone and Tone Detector 230 analyzes the feedback from the line with the following possible results: - If the feedback voltage is high, both callers have disconnected. - If the feedback voltage is medium, one of the callers has gone on hook - the level of the voltage indicates which caller. - If the feedback voltage is low, both callers are still connected. The present invention optionally also provides a novel method for registering a user with the call router. User calls call router number from a phone that user wants to register with the call router. When unit answers, user presses on Button Switch 236, causing Microcontroller 216 to record user's caller ID into its nonvolatile RAM. If unit doesn't include caller ID, Microcontroller 216 prompts user for password and records it into its nonvolatile Ram.
The present invention optionally have a Floating TX/RX serial Port 238, Like RS232 USB BlueTooth, Ethernet or other, That provides a way to communicate with other devices for any purpose including voice data reporting device usage and parameters configuration. When voice should pass to and from another device or network via the Floating TX/RX serial Port 238 and via Microcontroller 216 to the Telephone line, Microcontroller 216 Codec should convert the serial voice data to and from the analog voice of the Telephone line.
The method of the present invention is to route calls from one network to another via the call router device of the present invention, whether implemented off-the-shelf or dedicated as has been described, or via a similar device.
The method of the present invention can be implemented several ways: by routing a call received via a line to a PSTN back through the PSTN using conference call signaling or by routing it to another network connection on the call router. With reference to Figure 5, the conference call embodiment of the method of the present invention for routing calls is implemented by the following actions of the call router: 100 waits for incoming call on the user's PSTN line, 102 answers the user calling from his cell phone (call originator) or other telecommunication device, 104 (optionally recognizes the user caller ID or password- verifies the user), 106 queries the call originator for the desired long distance call recipient's (call receiver) phone number, 108 flash signals the PSTN central office to set up a conference call (three-station call), which causes the central office to put the call originator (first station) on hold and open a line so that the call router (second station) can add the call receiver (third station) to the call, 110 sends dual-tone multifrequency (DTMF) signals (also called dial signaling) to the PSTN central office to connect to the call receiver 112 detects answer (off hook) of the call receiver 114 flash signals the PSTN central office to bring the call originator (first station) back into the call 116 detects when one o both of the other stations leaves the call (for example, when one of them goes on hook) 118 if one of the stations is still off hook, closes the connection to that station
The method and system of the current invention can be adapted to implement various call access requirements, for example: restrict usage of the system based on the number of the receiver. - restrict usage of the system based on the length of the call. restrict usage of the system based on the type of receiving communication network. restrict usage of the system based on the cost of the call. - require recognition password for access to the system. require recognition caller ID for access to the system.
The method and system of the current invention can be adapted to implement various call data collection, for example: report on the costs of operation, usage, call originator identity or extension, call receiver identity or extension, time of call, or length of call. record and playback call content. The system of claim 1 adapted installed in a private vehicle, public vehicle, airplane, ship, truck, or van. include protection from disruptions due electrostatic weather conditions. detect the location of the mobile telecommunication device. - detect the location of the mobile telecommunication device and communicate that information to a rescue team.
The method and system of the current invention can be connected to a number of other devices, including: another call router an extension of a PABX a cellular adapter an Internet phone.
The call router of the current invention can be connected to another call router and used in daisy chain fashion. It should be clear that the description of the embodiments and attached
Figures set forth in this specification serves only for a better understanding of the invention, without limiting its scope as covered by the following Claims.
It should also be clear that a person in the art, after reading the present specification could make adjustments or amendments to the attached Figures and above described embodiments that would still be covered by the following Claims.

Claims

C L A I M S
1. A system for facilitating a low-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network, wherein the system selects a least costly communication link, the system comprising: a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile communication network is a GSM network.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the mobile communication network is an FDMA network.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile communication network is a TDMA network.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile communication network is a CDMA network.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile communication network is an AMPS network.
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the mobile communication network is a NAMPS network.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a GSM network.
9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is an FDMA network.
10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a TDMA network.
11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a CDMA network.
12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is an AMPS network.
13. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a NAMPS network.
14. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a VoIP network.
15. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a UMTS network.
16. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a PCS network.
17. The system of claim 1 , wherein the receiver communication network is a satellite network.
18. The system of claim 1 , with a VoIP network instead of a mobile communication network.
19 The system of claim 1 wherein at least some of the communication links are wire.
The system of claim 1 wherein at least some of the communication links are cable.
The system of claim 1 wherein at least some of the communication links are optical.
The system of claim 1 wherein at least some of the communication links are wireless.
The system of claim 1 used for local calls.
The system of claim 1 used for international calls.
The system of claim 1 used for intra-office calls.
The system of claim 1 used for PSTN calls.
The system of claim 1 used for cellular calls.
The system of claim 1 used for satellite calls.
The system of claim 1 used for VoIP calls.
The system of claim 1 used only for incoming calls.
The system of claim 1 used only for outgoing calls.
The system of claim 1 used only for incoming calls.
The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the number of the receiver.
The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the length of the call.
The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the type of receiving communication network.
The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit restricts usage of the system based on the cost of the call.
37 The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit checks for a recognition password before enabling a caller access to the system.
38 The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit checks a caller's caller ID before enabling access to the system.
39 The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit checks for a recognition password before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
40 The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit checks for a caller ID before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
41 The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit checks for a recognition caller ID before allowing access to one or more of the communication networks.
42. The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit reports on the costs of operation, usage, call originator identity or extension, call receiver identity or extension, time of call, or length of call.
43. The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit records and plays back call content.
44. The system of claim 1 installed in a private vehicle, public vehicle, airplane, ship, truck, or van.
45. The system of claim 1 further comprising protection from disruptions due electrostatic weather conditions.
46. The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit detects the location of the mobile telecommunication device.
47. The system of claim 1 wherein the processing unit detects the location of the mobile telecommunication device and communicate that information to a rescue team.
48. The system of claim 1 wherein the database comprises information about the security of the communication links and the processing unit selects the most secure communication link, based on the information in the database.
49. The system of claim 1 wherein the system detects most secure communication link and selects that link.
50. The system of claim 1 wherein the system detects least noisy communication link and selects that link.
51. The system of claim 1 wherein the router is connected to another router.
52. The system of claim 1 connected to an extension of a PABX.
53. The system of claim 1 connected to a cellular adapter.
54. The system of claim 1 connected to an Internet phone.
55. The system of claim 1 wherein the least costly routing calculation takes into account the time of day and the date.
56. An apparatus for low-cost calling between a mobile telecommunication device and a receiver telecommunication device, communicating via a receiver communication network, wherein the system selects a least costly communication link, the system comprising:
57. A system for minimizing communication cost of a call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a PSTN, the system comprising a control unit linked to a line of the PSTN, for connecting the call via the PSTN to the receiver telecommunication device in a conference call mode.
58. The system of claim 55 wherein the control unit is powered from the PSTN line.
59. The system of claim 55 further comprising caller ID recognition for controlling access to the system.
60. The system of claim 57 further comprising a user-operated switch whereby a caller can call the unit from a telecommunication device and operate the switch, causing the system to register the caller ID of the telecommunication device.
61. The system of claim 58 where the telecommunication device is a mobile telecommunication device.
62. The system of claim 55 further comprising a mechanism for determining whether to end the call, the mechanism comprising: a tone detector for detecting silence on the line; a clock for timing a predetermined length of silence followed by a predetermined timeout; a tone generator for signaling, after the timeout, to close the call circuits for both devices.
63. The system of claim 55 further comprising a mechanism for determining whether to end the call, the mechanism comprising: a tone generator for generating a tone; a feedback detector for measuring the level of the feedback to the tone; wherein a high level indicates that both devices have disconnected, a medium level indicates that one of the devices has disconnected, and a low level indicates that both devices are still connected.
64. A method for facilitating a low-cost call between a mobile telecommunication device communicating via a mobile communication network and a receiver telecommunication device communicating via a receiver communication network by selecting a least costly communication link, the method comprising: providing a router communicating with the mobile telecommunication device via the first mobile communication network, and comprising: communication links to at least one of several communication networks of various types; database comprising information about the. cost of communication links via said at least one of several types of communication networks to the receiver telecommunication device; processing unit for selecting the least costly communication link, based on the information in the database, and routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device.
65. The method of claim 65, wherein routing the call to the selected communication network for connecting with the receiver telecommunication device is carried out via another communication router.
66. The method of claim 65, used for local calls.
66. The method of claim 65 used for international calls.
67. The method of claim 65 used for intra-office calls.
68. The method of claim 65 used for PSTN calls.
69. The method of claim 65 used for cellular calls.
70. The method of claim 65 used for satellite calls.
71. The method of claim 65 used for VoIP calls.
72. The method of claim 65 used only for incoming calls.
73. The method of claim 65 used only for outgoing calls.
74. The method of claim 65 used only for incoming calls.
PCT/IL2004/001014 2004-05-13 2004-11-04 Method and apparatus for interconnecting telecommunication networks WO2005112484A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IL16195804A IL161958A0 (en) 2004-05-13 2004-05-13
IL161958 2004-05-13
IL16274804A IL162748A0 (en) 2004-06-27 2004-06-27 System for routing calls between communication providers
IL162748 2004-06-27

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US20110110344A1 (en) * 2008-03-18 2011-05-12 Johnny Kristensen Communication System for Voice-Over Internet Protocol Using License-Free Frequencies and a Mobile Telephone
WO2012164589A1 (en) * 2011-06-01 2012-12-06 Claudio Zambon Least cost routing system for inter-operator calls comprising a plurality of sim cards for the different operators
EP2701374A1 (en) * 2012-08-23 2014-02-26 Arndt Mehlhorn Telephone system and method

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US6680935B1 (en) * 1999-12-30 2004-01-20 At&T Corp. Anonymous call rejection
US20050078814A1 (en) * 2001-12-21 2005-04-14 Cavalcanti Roberto Faria System, method and apparatus for least cost automatic routing of calls in telephone networks with data supplied on demand

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6381315B1 (en) * 1999-12-02 2002-04-30 Eli Nhaissi Universal exchange for making least-cost non-local telephone calls
US6680935B1 (en) * 1999-12-30 2004-01-20 At&T Corp. Anonymous call rejection
US20050078814A1 (en) * 2001-12-21 2005-04-14 Cavalcanti Roberto Faria System, method and apparatus for least cost automatic routing of calls in telephone networks with data supplied on demand

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110110344A1 (en) * 2008-03-18 2011-05-12 Johnny Kristensen Communication System for Voice-Over Internet Protocol Using License-Free Frequencies and a Mobile Telephone
WO2012164589A1 (en) * 2011-06-01 2012-12-06 Claudio Zambon Least cost routing system for inter-operator calls comprising a plurality of sim cards for the different operators
EP2701374A1 (en) * 2012-08-23 2014-02-26 Arndt Mehlhorn Telephone system and method
WO2014029867A1 (en) * 2012-08-23 2014-02-27 Arndt Mehlhorn Telephone system and method

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