CA2059736C - Automatic numbering identification system - Google Patents
Automatic numbering identification systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2059736C CA2059736C CA002059736A CA2059736A CA2059736C CA 2059736 C CA2059736 C CA 2059736C CA 002059736 A CA002059736 A CA 002059736A CA 2059736 A CA2059736 A CA 2059736A CA 2059736 C CA2059736 C CA 2059736C
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- remote
- predetermined
- communication devices
- identification
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Abstract
An automatic numbering identification system for identifying one of a plurality of remote located communication devices in, for example, a rural telephone communication system. The automatic numbering identification system comprises a plurality of remote located communication devices coupled to an identification device. The identification device is coupled to a central coupler and includes a detector device and network circuitry arranged in a nodal arrangement, the network circuitry further including an inductor and other electrical components such as a resistor or diode, in, for example, a series connection.
The identification device identifies the remote located communication device which transmits a signal to it, during normal use.
The identification device identifies the remote located communication device which transmits a signal to it, during normal use.
Description
1 '' 205~736 ~
AUTOMATIC NUMBERING ID~ lCATION 8YSTEM
FIBLD OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to communication systems employing remote located communication devices.
In particular, the present invention relates to an automatic numbering identification system wherein each of the remote located communications devices can be identified at a central location during normal operation of the communication device.
R~rRaRoUND OF THE l~V~..ION:
Rural communication systems have for years used party line configurations as a cost effective means to bring modern day communications to less densely populated areas of the country. As a practical consideration, where more than one user has the capability of accessing a communication path (telephone line) the supplier of such communication services must be able to identify that user to effectuate proper billing. A popular response to this problem has been to require the use of an extra digit, sometimes referred to a llcircle~ digit, to differentiate the user, or more particularly, the remote communication device being used, and identify the device being used at a central billing location. This requirement extended to party line users as well as to private line users. Therefore, a user has to dial a circle digit first and then dial the telephone number 205~736 desired such that the central billing location could identify the source of the call and bill appropriately if it is a toll call.
This procedure, regarding the dialing of an extra digit, is inconvenient for the user, and difficult for a visitor to such a rural community to understand. It would be desirable to eliminate the need for the circle digit allowing llnormalll use of the communication device while still being able to identify the device in the event of a call originating therefrom.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification system for remote located communication devices such that use of each remote located communication device can be appropriately tracked for the purposes of billing.
If is a further object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification system which does not require the use of an additional digit, such as with telephone numbers, for the purposes of identification.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification device which couples to a plurality of remote located communication devices in a manner which allows for identification of each of such remote located communication devices.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification device which can be mounted in a central location or be placed in each of the remote located communication devices.
8UMMARY OF THB l~.v~ ON:
The automatic numbering system of the present invention includes a plurality of remote located communication devices (for example, telephones or facsimile machines) with each of these devices capable of transmitting a signal, for example an electrical signal, to an identification device. The identification device of the automatic numbering identification system is coupled to each one of the plurality of remote located communication devices. The identification device receives each of the signals transmitted from each of the remote located communication devices, and depending upon which of the remote located communication devices transmitted the signal, the identification device will output its own signal indicative of the particular remote located communication device from which it received the transmitted signal. The output of the identification device is sent to a central coupler wherein the central coupler is capable of interpreting the signal from the identification device as a indication of the particular remote located communication device which transmitted the signal.
The identification device further comprises network circuitry adapted to produce a predetermined impedance in response to each of the transmitted signals from the remote located communication devices. This is made possible by providing for discrete electrical paths in the network circuitry arranged such that the signal produced by each of the remote located communication devices travels along a particular electrical path. Also included as part of the identification device is a detector device which is adapted to detect the existence of any of the predetermined impedances in the network circuitry. It is then the detector device which produces a detection signal in response to detecting the existence of any of the predetermined impedances with the detection signal produced corresponding to the particular predetermined impedance which is detected.
The automatic numbering identification system may further comprise a nodal arrangement of the network circuitry of the identification device wherein a 2~59736 plurality of discrete electrlcal components (for example, a ~ reslstor, an lnductor, and a dlode) are coupled together ln a serles arrangement such that the respective ends of each of the dlscrete electrlcal components from a node wlthln the network clrcultry. Each of the remote located communlcation devlces may be coupled to the ldentlflcatlon devlce vla, for example a slgnal llne comprlslng a two conductor cable. By connectlng each conductor of the two conductor cables to a partlcular node wlthln the network clrcultry, a dlstlnct electrlcal characterlstlc ~l.e. voltage drop or current draw) appears across one or more of the dlscrete electrlcal components when a slgnal ls sent from a communlcatlon devlce, due to the exlstence of a unlque lmpedance for the slgnal path. The magnltude of the electrlcal characterlstlc ls then detected by the detector devlce whlch puts out a correspondlng detectlon slgnal. For example, detectlon of a predetermlned flrst voltage or current level due to the exlstence of a flrst lmpedance, results ln the detector devlce produclng a flrst detectlon slgnal, and so on.
The ldentlflcatlon devlce, although ldeally placed ln a central locatlon to recelve slgnals from a plurallty of remote located communlcatlon devlces, can also easlly be placed ln each one of the remote located communlcatlon devlces.
In accordance wlth one aspect of the present lnventlon there ls provlded an automatlc numberlng ldentlflcatlon system comprlslng:
a plurallty of remote communlcatlon devlces, each of sald Y
~ 2059736 plurallty of remote cor~munlcatlon devlces for ~ transmlttlng a remote devlce slgnal;
an ldentlflcatlon devlce, coupled to each one of sald plurallty of remote communlcatlon devlces, for recelvlng sald remote devlce slgnal from each of sald plurallty or remote communlcatlon devlces, sald ldentlflcatlon devlce further comprlslng:
network clrcultry comprlslng a plurallty of dlscrete components ln a nodal arrangement for provldlng a plurallty of electrlcal paths, sald plurallty of electrlcal paths lncludlng at least a flrst electrlcal path comprlslng a reslstor ln serles wlth an lnductor, each sald electrlcal path extendlng from a partlcular flrst node to a partlcular second node, sald network clrcultry for recelvlng each of sald plurallty of remote devlce slgnals on a correspondlng one of sald electrlcal paths whereln a correspondlng predetermlned lmpedance exlsts ln the presence of the respectlve one of sald plurallty of remote devlce slgnals; and a detector devlce for detectlng sald correspondlng predetermlned lmpedance and for provldlng a correspondlng predetermlned detectlon slgnal ln response thereto;
sald ldentlflcatlon devlce belng sealed as an lntegral component ln a weatherproof materlal; and a central coupler coupled to sald ldentlflcatlon devlce to recelve each remote devlce slgnal from sald - 4a -identification device and to said detector devlce to ~ recelve the correspondlng predetermlned detectlon slgnal, whereln sald one of sald plurallty of communlcatlon devlces is ldentifled by sald correspondlng predetermlned detectlon slgnal ln response to sald one of sald plurality of communicatlon devices transmitting a remote devlce signal.
In accordance with another aspect of the present lnvention there is provided a method of automatically identifying a remote located communication device in a communication system, comprislng the steps of:
coupllng each of a plurallty of remote located communlcation devices to an ldentiflcatlon devlce having network clrcuitry arranged in a nodal arrangement, the network clrcultry lncluding at least a resistor, an inductor and a dlode;
protecting the ldentiflcatlon devlce by seallng lt as an l.ntegral component ln weatherproof material;
creating a plurallty of distlnct electrlcal paths havlng predetermlned electrical characterlstics by coupllng each of the remote located communlcation devlces to one or more nodes of the network clrcuitry;
transmltting a predetermined flrst slgnal from one of the plurality of remote located communication devices to the ldentlflcatlon devlce;
detecting the presence of the transmitted predetermined first slgnal on one of the plurallty of dlstlnct electrlcal paths by monltorlng one or more of lts b - 4b -r~- 61293-276 -- 205973~
predetermlned electrlcal characterlstlcs; and transmlttlng a predetermlned second slgnal to a central coupler ln the presence of the detected transmltted predetermlned flrst slgnal, whereln the predetermlned second slgnal corresponds to the predetermlned electrlcal characterlstlcs of a partlcular dlstlnct electrlcal path.
These and other ob~ects and advantages of the lnventlon wlll become apparent from the followlng detalled descrlptlon taken ln con~unctlon wlth the accompanylng drawlngs whereln.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 dlagrammatlcally lllustrates an automatlc numberlng ldentlflcatlon system lncludlng remote located communlcatlon devlce and a central ldentlflcatlon devlce;
FIG. 2 schematlcally lllustrates network clrcultry - 4c -f ~
205~736 of the identification device of the automatic numbering identification system including discrete electrical components and a detector device, and the coupling of the identification device to the remote located communication device and a central coupler.
PREFERRED EMBODIMENT FOR CARRYING OUT THB l~V~ lON:
Referring to FIG. 1, the automatic numbering identification system includes a plurality of remote located communication devices at, for example, positions 1, 2, 3 and 4 and an identification device 10. A remote located communication device may include a telephone or other such device capable of transmitting a signal when in use. Each of the remote located communication devices at positions 1, 2, 3 and 4, is coupled to the identification device 10.
The identification device 10 is adapted to receive a plurality of inputs including the transmitted signals from each of the plurality of remote located communication devices along signal lines 20, 40, 50 and 60. In addition, the identification device 10 is adapted to output a signal along signal line 30.
Referring now to FIG. 2, the identification device 10 includes discrete electrical components and connections. The identification device 10 operates to identify the particular remote located communication device in use by monitoring the signal transmitted from each such remote located communication device at positions 1, 2, 3 and 4, such monitoring being performed at one or more of a plurality of nodes A, B and C within the identification device 10.
The identification device 10 includes network circuitry 21 comprising a plurality of discrete electrical components and connections. Since the identification device 10 operates to monitor signals along particular signal paths within the network circuitry 21, it is advisable to describe the identification device 10 in terms of its signal paths and connections.
The identification device 10 receives a signal from position 1 (communication device) along signal line 20.
Signal line 20 is a two wire cable, a first wire 20a of which is connected to node A, and a second wire 20b which is connected to an earth ground. The signal from position 1 travels along signal line 20, signal line 20a and signal line 30 (which may also represent a telephone line, for example) to a central coupler 31. It is therefore seen that the signal from position 1 proceeds through the identification device 10 without resulting in a detection signal being generated for identification purposes. For the purposes of billing, the absence of a detection signal to specifically identify a remote located communication device is itself an indication of the use of a particular device. In this case, as illustrated in FIG.2, the communication device in use, is in position 1.
The signal received from position 2 (communication device) travels along signal line 40 which is a two wire cable comprising signal lines 40a and 40b. Signal line 40a carries the signal from position 2, while signal line 40b acts as a ground. The electrical path from position 2 to the central coupler 31 follows signal line 40, signal line 40a and signal line 30. Although there is a signal path from position 2 to the central coupler 31 there is also a difference in potential between signal lines 40a and 40b. This difference in potential is designated as v1 which, referring to FIG. 2, is illustrated as the difference in potential between nodes A and B. The network circuitry 21 of the automatic numbering identification system provides for discrete electrical components to be connected in a series arrangement between nodes A and B. In particular, nodes A and B are connected via a resistor 42 in series with an inductor 43. The voltage v1 across nodes A and B
7 20~9736 therefore result, in this instance, with a current flow i across the resistor 42 and inductor 43.
A detector device 45 is also connected to nodes A
and B and arranged to detect either of the voltage differential between nodes A and B (vl) or the current flow between nodes A and B (i1). In response to the detector device 45 detecting a predetermined voltage v across nodes A and B, or a predetermined current i1 flowing between nodes A and B, the detector device 45 will produce a detection signal and transmit such detection signal along a signal line 46 to the central coupler 31. The detection signal transmitted on signal line 46 corresponds to the predetermined voltage or current levels across nodes A and B. As such, the central coupler 31 can identify which remote located communication device sent the signal to the identification device 10. In this case, the remote located communication device in use, is in position 2.
The timing of the detection signal is not a critical feature of the present invention, relative to the signal being transmitted from the communication device to the central coupler 31. The detection signal may be output to the central coupler 31 before normal use is permitted, or perhaps sometime during the transmission of the main signal. In addition, although FIG.2 depicts an arrangement whereby the detection signal uses the same signal path to the central coupler, this arrangement is not exclusive. For example, signal line 46 may extend all the way from the detector device 46 to the central coupler 31.
A signal transmitted from position 3 (communication device) is transmitted along signal line 50, which is a two wire cable which splits into signal line 50a and signal line 50b. Signal line 50a carries the transmitted signal from position 3 to node A whereas signal line 50b acts as a ground in this instance and is connected to node C. The total signal path from position 3 to the 8 2a~9736 central coupler 31 extends along signal lines 50, 50a and 30. There is, of course, a difference in potential between signal lines 50a and 50b during the transmission of a signal from position 3. This difference in potential is designated as v2 and also represents the difference of potential across nodes A and C. The existence of a difference of potential between nodes A
and C (v2) results in a current flow i2 from node A to node C through resistor 42, inductor 43 and a diode 52.
The detector device 45 is also coupled to node C in addition to being coupled to nodes A and B.
The detector device 45 is adapted to detect the existence of either a predetermined voltage differential (v2) across nodes A and C, or a predetermined current flow (i2) through the resistor 42, inductor 43 and diode 52 series of components. As a result of detecting either of the predetermined voltage or current levels between nodes A and C, the detector device 45 will output a corresponding detection signal on signal line 46. This detection signal is transmitted to the central coupler 31, enabling this central coupler 31 to determine that the remote located communication device from position 3 was the originator of the signal to the identification device 10.
A signal transmitted from position 4 (communication device 4) is sent to the identification device 10 along signal line 60. Signal line 60 is a two wire cable which splits into signal line 60a and 60b. Signal line 60a carries the signal from position 4 to node C whereas signal line 60b acts as a ground and is connected to node A in this instance. During the transmission of a signal along signal line 60, a difference in potential exists between signal lines 60a and 60b, and therefore across nodes A and C. This difference in potential (also v2) results in a current flow from nodes C to A (such current flow also designated as i2, however the current will flow in the direction opposite to that previously discussed 9 20S973~
for i2). The detector device 45, as in the case of signals from position 3, is adapted to detect a predetermined voltage level or current flow from nodes A
to C. As a result of the detector device 45 detecting such predetermined voltage or current level, the detector device 45 will output a corresponding detection signal on signal line 46 to be transmitted to the central coupler 31. The central coupler 31, in response to receiving this corresponding detection signal, will be able to ascertain that the source of the signal to the identification device 10 is the communication device located at position 4.
In another embodiment, the detector device 45 may comprise a microprocessor, adapted to accept inputs indicative of signal level at various points in the network circuitry 21, and to compare these inputs with predetermined stored values. In this embodiment, the successful comparison of the inputted signal levels and the stored values may result in the output of a detection signal to its central coupler.
The entirety of the identification device 10, including network circuitry 21 discrete electrical components 42, 43, and 52, as well as the detector device 45 may all be designed into an integral device which may be constructed of a polyvinyl compound to protect it from dampness, dust and the elements. This arrangement prevents corrosion and may eliminate the noise or other problems resulting from such moisture, dust, an exposure to the elements. In addition, the identification device 10 may be constructed of a suitable size to be installed in each of the remote located communication devices, rather than in a centralized location where it is adapted to receive a plurality of signals from such communication devices.
The automatic numbering identification system, although described above in the context of a system capable of connecting four remote located communication 20~97~6 devices, can be adapted to handled as few as two connections or as many connections as needed within the physical limitations of the system. In addition, the inductor 43 is a discrete component which must be placed somewhere in the series connection which is monitored by the detector device 45 in order to match the iterative impedance of the circuit. In addition, this inductor 43 may comprise a electromagnet having a soft iron core with a single wire wound around it.
AUTOMATIC NUMBERING ID~ lCATION 8YSTEM
FIBLD OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to communication systems employing remote located communication devices.
In particular, the present invention relates to an automatic numbering identification system wherein each of the remote located communications devices can be identified at a central location during normal operation of the communication device.
R~rRaRoUND OF THE l~V~..ION:
Rural communication systems have for years used party line configurations as a cost effective means to bring modern day communications to less densely populated areas of the country. As a practical consideration, where more than one user has the capability of accessing a communication path (telephone line) the supplier of such communication services must be able to identify that user to effectuate proper billing. A popular response to this problem has been to require the use of an extra digit, sometimes referred to a llcircle~ digit, to differentiate the user, or more particularly, the remote communication device being used, and identify the device being used at a central billing location. This requirement extended to party line users as well as to private line users. Therefore, a user has to dial a circle digit first and then dial the telephone number 205~736 desired such that the central billing location could identify the source of the call and bill appropriately if it is a toll call.
This procedure, regarding the dialing of an extra digit, is inconvenient for the user, and difficult for a visitor to such a rural community to understand. It would be desirable to eliminate the need for the circle digit allowing llnormalll use of the communication device while still being able to identify the device in the event of a call originating therefrom.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification system for remote located communication devices such that use of each remote located communication device can be appropriately tracked for the purposes of billing.
If is a further object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification system which does not require the use of an additional digit, such as with telephone numbers, for the purposes of identification.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification device which couples to a plurality of remote located communication devices in a manner which allows for identification of each of such remote located communication devices.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide an automatic numbering identification device which can be mounted in a central location or be placed in each of the remote located communication devices.
8UMMARY OF THB l~.v~ ON:
The automatic numbering system of the present invention includes a plurality of remote located communication devices (for example, telephones or facsimile machines) with each of these devices capable of transmitting a signal, for example an electrical signal, to an identification device. The identification device of the automatic numbering identification system is coupled to each one of the plurality of remote located communication devices. The identification device receives each of the signals transmitted from each of the remote located communication devices, and depending upon which of the remote located communication devices transmitted the signal, the identification device will output its own signal indicative of the particular remote located communication device from which it received the transmitted signal. The output of the identification device is sent to a central coupler wherein the central coupler is capable of interpreting the signal from the identification device as a indication of the particular remote located communication device which transmitted the signal.
The identification device further comprises network circuitry adapted to produce a predetermined impedance in response to each of the transmitted signals from the remote located communication devices. This is made possible by providing for discrete electrical paths in the network circuitry arranged such that the signal produced by each of the remote located communication devices travels along a particular electrical path. Also included as part of the identification device is a detector device which is adapted to detect the existence of any of the predetermined impedances in the network circuitry. It is then the detector device which produces a detection signal in response to detecting the existence of any of the predetermined impedances with the detection signal produced corresponding to the particular predetermined impedance which is detected.
The automatic numbering identification system may further comprise a nodal arrangement of the network circuitry of the identification device wherein a 2~59736 plurality of discrete electrlcal components (for example, a ~ reslstor, an lnductor, and a dlode) are coupled together ln a serles arrangement such that the respective ends of each of the dlscrete electrlcal components from a node wlthln the network clrcultry. Each of the remote located communlcation devlces may be coupled to the ldentlflcatlon devlce vla, for example a slgnal llne comprlslng a two conductor cable. By connectlng each conductor of the two conductor cables to a partlcular node wlthln the network clrcultry, a dlstlnct electrlcal characterlstlc ~l.e. voltage drop or current draw) appears across one or more of the dlscrete electrlcal components when a slgnal ls sent from a communlcatlon devlce, due to the exlstence of a unlque lmpedance for the slgnal path. The magnltude of the electrlcal characterlstlc ls then detected by the detector devlce whlch puts out a correspondlng detectlon slgnal. For example, detectlon of a predetermlned flrst voltage or current level due to the exlstence of a flrst lmpedance, results ln the detector devlce produclng a flrst detectlon slgnal, and so on.
The ldentlflcatlon devlce, although ldeally placed ln a central locatlon to recelve slgnals from a plurallty of remote located communlcatlon devlces, can also easlly be placed ln each one of the remote located communlcatlon devlces.
In accordance wlth one aspect of the present lnventlon there ls provlded an automatlc numberlng ldentlflcatlon system comprlslng:
a plurallty of remote communlcatlon devlces, each of sald Y
~ 2059736 plurallty of remote cor~munlcatlon devlces for ~ transmlttlng a remote devlce slgnal;
an ldentlflcatlon devlce, coupled to each one of sald plurallty of remote communlcatlon devlces, for recelvlng sald remote devlce slgnal from each of sald plurallty or remote communlcatlon devlces, sald ldentlflcatlon devlce further comprlslng:
network clrcultry comprlslng a plurallty of dlscrete components ln a nodal arrangement for provldlng a plurallty of electrlcal paths, sald plurallty of electrlcal paths lncludlng at least a flrst electrlcal path comprlslng a reslstor ln serles wlth an lnductor, each sald electrlcal path extendlng from a partlcular flrst node to a partlcular second node, sald network clrcultry for recelvlng each of sald plurallty of remote devlce slgnals on a correspondlng one of sald electrlcal paths whereln a correspondlng predetermlned lmpedance exlsts ln the presence of the respectlve one of sald plurallty of remote devlce slgnals; and a detector devlce for detectlng sald correspondlng predetermlned lmpedance and for provldlng a correspondlng predetermlned detectlon slgnal ln response thereto;
sald ldentlflcatlon devlce belng sealed as an lntegral component ln a weatherproof materlal; and a central coupler coupled to sald ldentlflcatlon devlce to recelve each remote devlce slgnal from sald - 4a -identification device and to said detector devlce to ~ recelve the correspondlng predetermlned detectlon slgnal, whereln sald one of sald plurallty of communlcatlon devlces is ldentifled by sald correspondlng predetermlned detectlon slgnal ln response to sald one of sald plurality of communicatlon devices transmitting a remote devlce signal.
In accordance with another aspect of the present lnvention there is provided a method of automatically identifying a remote located communication device in a communication system, comprislng the steps of:
coupllng each of a plurallty of remote located communlcation devices to an ldentiflcatlon devlce having network clrcuitry arranged in a nodal arrangement, the network clrcultry lncluding at least a resistor, an inductor and a dlode;
protecting the ldentiflcatlon devlce by seallng lt as an l.ntegral component ln weatherproof material;
creating a plurallty of distlnct electrlcal paths havlng predetermlned electrical characterlstics by coupllng each of the remote located communlcation devlces to one or more nodes of the network clrcuitry;
transmltting a predetermined flrst slgnal from one of the plurality of remote located communication devices to the ldentlflcatlon devlce;
detecting the presence of the transmitted predetermined first slgnal on one of the plurallty of dlstlnct electrlcal paths by monltorlng one or more of lts b - 4b -r~- 61293-276 -- 205973~
predetermlned electrlcal characterlstlcs; and transmlttlng a predetermlned second slgnal to a central coupler ln the presence of the detected transmltted predetermlned flrst slgnal, whereln the predetermlned second slgnal corresponds to the predetermlned electrlcal characterlstlcs of a partlcular dlstlnct electrlcal path.
These and other ob~ects and advantages of the lnventlon wlll become apparent from the followlng detalled descrlptlon taken ln con~unctlon wlth the accompanylng drawlngs whereln.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 dlagrammatlcally lllustrates an automatlc numberlng ldentlflcatlon system lncludlng remote located communlcatlon devlce and a central ldentlflcatlon devlce;
FIG. 2 schematlcally lllustrates network clrcultry - 4c -f ~
205~736 of the identification device of the automatic numbering identification system including discrete electrical components and a detector device, and the coupling of the identification device to the remote located communication device and a central coupler.
PREFERRED EMBODIMENT FOR CARRYING OUT THB l~V~ lON:
Referring to FIG. 1, the automatic numbering identification system includes a plurality of remote located communication devices at, for example, positions 1, 2, 3 and 4 and an identification device 10. A remote located communication device may include a telephone or other such device capable of transmitting a signal when in use. Each of the remote located communication devices at positions 1, 2, 3 and 4, is coupled to the identification device 10.
The identification device 10 is adapted to receive a plurality of inputs including the transmitted signals from each of the plurality of remote located communication devices along signal lines 20, 40, 50 and 60. In addition, the identification device 10 is adapted to output a signal along signal line 30.
Referring now to FIG. 2, the identification device 10 includes discrete electrical components and connections. The identification device 10 operates to identify the particular remote located communication device in use by monitoring the signal transmitted from each such remote located communication device at positions 1, 2, 3 and 4, such monitoring being performed at one or more of a plurality of nodes A, B and C within the identification device 10.
The identification device 10 includes network circuitry 21 comprising a plurality of discrete electrical components and connections. Since the identification device 10 operates to monitor signals along particular signal paths within the network circuitry 21, it is advisable to describe the identification device 10 in terms of its signal paths and connections.
The identification device 10 receives a signal from position 1 (communication device) along signal line 20.
Signal line 20 is a two wire cable, a first wire 20a of which is connected to node A, and a second wire 20b which is connected to an earth ground. The signal from position 1 travels along signal line 20, signal line 20a and signal line 30 (which may also represent a telephone line, for example) to a central coupler 31. It is therefore seen that the signal from position 1 proceeds through the identification device 10 without resulting in a detection signal being generated for identification purposes. For the purposes of billing, the absence of a detection signal to specifically identify a remote located communication device is itself an indication of the use of a particular device. In this case, as illustrated in FIG.2, the communication device in use, is in position 1.
The signal received from position 2 (communication device) travels along signal line 40 which is a two wire cable comprising signal lines 40a and 40b. Signal line 40a carries the signal from position 2, while signal line 40b acts as a ground. The electrical path from position 2 to the central coupler 31 follows signal line 40, signal line 40a and signal line 30. Although there is a signal path from position 2 to the central coupler 31 there is also a difference in potential between signal lines 40a and 40b. This difference in potential is designated as v1 which, referring to FIG. 2, is illustrated as the difference in potential between nodes A and B. The network circuitry 21 of the automatic numbering identification system provides for discrete electrical components to be connected in a series arrangement between nodes A and B. In particular, nodes A and B are connected via a resistor 42 in series with an inductor 43. The voltage v1 across nodes A and B
7 20~9736 therefore result, in this instance, with a current flow i across the resistor 42 and inductor 43.
A detector device 45 is also connected to nodes A
and B and arranged to detect either of the voltage differential between nodes A and B (vl) or the current flow between nodes A and B (i1). In response to the detector device 45 detecting a predetermined voltage v across nodes A and B, or a predetermined current i1 flowing between nodes A and B, the detector device 45 will produce a detection signal and transmit such detection signal along a signal line 46 to the central coupler 31. The detection signal transmitted on signal line 46 corresponds to the predetermined voltage or current levels across nodes A and B. As such, the central coupler 31 can identify which remote located communication device sent the signal to the identification device 10. In this case, the remote located communication device in use, is in position 2.
The timing of the detection signal is not a critical feature of the present invention, relative to the signal being transmitted from the communication device to the central coupler 31. The detection signal may be output to the central coupler 31 before normal use is permitted, or perhaps sometime during the transmission of the main signal. In addition, although FIG.2 depicts an arrangement whereby the detection signal uses the same signal path to the central coupler, this arrangement is not exclusive. For example, signal line 46 may extend all the way from the detector device 46 to the central coupler 31.
A signal transmitted from position 3 (communication device) is transmitted along signal line 50, which is a two wire cable which splits into signal line 50a and signal line 50b. Signal line 50a carries the transmitted signal from position 3 to node A whereas signal line 50b acts as a ground in this instance and is connected to node C. The total signal path from position 3 to the 8 2a~9736 central coupler 31 extends along signal lines 50, 50a and 30. There is, of course, a difference in potential between signal lines 50a and 50b during the transmission of a signal from position 3. This difference in potential is designated as v2 and also represents the difference of potential across nodes A and C. The existence of a difference of potential between nodes A
and C (v2) results in a current flow i2 from node A to node C through resistor 42, inductor 43 and a diode 52.
The detector device 45 is also coupled to node C in addition to being coupled to nodes A and B.
The detector device 45 is adapted to detect the existence of either a predetermined voltage differential (v2) across nodes A and C, or a predetermined current flow (i2) through the resistor 42, inductor 43 and diode 52 series of components. As a result of detecting either of the predetermined voltage or current levels between nodes A and C, the detector device 45 will output a corresponding detection signal on signal line 46. This detection signal is transmitted to the central coupler 31, enabling this central coupler 31 to determine that the remote located communication device from position 3 was the originator of the signal to the identification device 10.
A signal transmitted from position 4 (communication device 4) is sent to the identification device 10 along signal line 60. Signal line 60 is a two wire cable which splits into signal line 60a and 60b. Signal line 60a carries the signal from position 4 to node C whereas signal line 60b acts as a ground and is connected to node A in this instance. During the transmission of a signal along signal line 60, a difference in potential exists between signal lines 60a and 60b, and therefore across nodes A and C. This difference in potential (also v2) results in a current flow from nodes C to A (such current flow also designated as i2, however the current will flow in the direction opposite to that previously discussed 9 20S973~
for i2). The detector device 45, as in the case of signals from position 3, is adapted to detect a predetermined voltage level or current flow from nodes A
to C. As a result of the detector device 45 detecting such predetermined voltage or current level, the detector device 45 will output a corresponding detection signal on signal line 46 to be transmitted to the central coupler 31. The central coupler 31, in response to receiving this corresponding detection signal, will be able to ascertain that the source of the signal to the identification device 10 is the communication device located at position 4.
In another embodiment, the detector device 45 may comprise a microprocessor, adapted to accept inputs indicative of signal level at various points in the network circuitry 21, and to compare these inputs with predetermined stored values. In this embodiment, the successful comparison of the inputted signal levels and the stored values may result in the output of a detection signal to its central coupler.
The entirety of the identification device 10, including network circuitry 21 discrete electrical components 42, 43, and 52, as well as the detector device 45 may all be designed into an integral device which may be constructed of a polyvinyl compound to protect it from dampness, dust and the elements. This arrangement prevents corrosion and may eliminate the noise or other problems resulting from such moisture, dust, an exposure to the elements. In addition, the identification device 10 may be constructed of a suitable size to be installed in each of the remote located communication devices, rather than in a centralized location where it is adapted to receive a plurality of signals from such communication devices.
The automatic numbering identification system, although described above in the context of a system capable of connecting four remote located communication 20~97~6 devices, can be adapted to handled as few as two connections or as many connections as needed within the physical limitations of the system. In addition, the inductor 43 is a discrete component which must be placed somewhere in the series connection which is monitored by the detector device 45 in order to match the iterative impedance of the circuit. In addition, this inductor 43 may comprise a electromagnet having a soft iron core with a single wire wound around it.
Claims (7)
1. An automatic numbering identification system comprising:
a plurality of remote communication devices, each of said plurality of remote communication devices for transmitting a remote device signal;
an identification device, coupled to each one of said plurality of remote communication devices, for receiving said remote device signal from each of said plurality or remote communication devices, said identification device further comprising:
network circuitry comprising a plurality of discrete components in a nodal arrangement for providing a plurality of electrical paths, said plurality of electrical paths including at least a first electrical path comprising a resistor in series with an inductor, each said electrical path extending from a particular first node to a particular second node, said network circuitry for receiving each of said plurality of remote device signals on a corresponding one of said electrical paths wherein a corresponding predetermined impedance exists in the presence of the respective one of said plurality of remote device signals; and a detector device for detecting said corresponding predetermined impedance and for providing a corresponding predetermined detection signal in response thereto;
said identification device being sealed as an integral component in a weatherproof material; and a central coupler coupled to said identification device to receive each remote device signal from said identification device and to said detector device to receive the corresponding predetermined detection signal, wherein said one of said plurality of communication devices is identified by said corresponding predetermined detection signal in response to said one of said plurality of communication devices transmitting a remote device signal.
a plurality of remote communication devices, each of said plurality of remote communication devices for transmitting a remote device signal;
an identification device, coupled to each one of said plurality of remote communication devices, for receiving said remote device signal from each of said plurality or remote communication devices, said identification device further comprising:
network circuitry comprising a plurality of discrete components in a nodal arrangement for providing a plurality of electrical paths, said plurality of electrical paths including at least a first electrical path comprising a resistor in series with an inductor, each said electrical path extending from a particular first node to a particular second node, said network circuitry for receiving each of said plurality of remote device signals on a corresponding one of said electrical paths wherein a corresponding predetermined impedance exists in the presence of the respective one of said plurality of remote device signals; and a detector device for detecting said corresponding predetermined impedance and for providing a corresponding predetermined detection signal in response thereto;
said identification device being sealed as an integral component in a weatherproof material; and a central coupler coupled to said identification device to receive each remote device signal from said identification device and to said detector device to receive the corresponding predetermined detection signal, wherein said one of said plurality of communication devices is identified by said corresponding predetermined detection signal in response to said one of said plurality of communication devices transmitting a remote device signal.
2. The automatic numbering identification system of claim 1 wherein a second electrical path comprises said resistor in series with said inductor and a diode.
3. The automatic numbering identification system of claim 2 wherein a third electrical path comprises said resistor in series with said inductor and a reversed-biased diode.
4. The automatic numbering identification system of claim 1 wherein said detector device comprises voltage detection means to monitor at least first and second voltage levels and to output a corresponding said predetermined detection signal in response to detecting a predetermined voltage level.
5. The automatic numbering identification system of claim 1 wherein said detector device comprises current detection means to monitor at least first and second current levels and to output a corresponding said predetermined detection signal in response to detecting a predetermined current level.
6. The automatic numbering identification system of claim 1 wherein said detector device comprises a microprocessor.
7. A method of automatically identifying a remote located communication device in a communication system, comprising the steps of:
coupling each of a plurality of remote located communication devices to an identification device having network circuitry arranged in a nodal arrangement, the network circuitry including at least a resistor, an inductor and a diode;
protecting the identification device by sealing it as an integral component in weatherproof material;
creating a plurality of distinct electrical paths having predetermined electrical characteristics by coupling each of the remote located communication devices to one or more nodes of the network circuitry;
transmitting a predetermined first signal from one of the plurality of remote located communication devices to the identification device;
detecting the presence of the transmitted predetermined first signal on one of the plurality of distinct electrical paths by monitoring one or more of its predetermined electrical characteristics; and transmitting a predetermined second signal to a central coupler in the presence of the detected transmitted predetermined first signal, wherein the predetermined second signal corresponds to the predetermined electrical characteristics of a particular distinct electrical path.
coupling each of a plurality of remote located communication devices to an identification device having network circuitry arranged in a nodal arrangement, the network circuitry including at least a resistor, an inductor and a diode;
protecting the identification device by sealing it as an integral component in weatherproof material;
creating a plurality of distinct electrical paths having predetermined electrical characteristics by coupling each of the remote located communication devices to one or more nodes of the network circuitry;
transmitting a predetermined first signal from one of the plurality of remote located communication devices to the identification device;
detecting the presence of the transmitted predetermined first signal on one of the plurality of distinct electrical paths by monitoring one or more of its predetermined electrical characteristics; and transmitting a predetermined second signal to a central coupler in the presence of the detected transmitted predetermined first signal, wherein the predetermined second signal corresponds to the predetermined electrical characteristics of a particular distinct electrical path.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US79296191A | 1991-11-15 | 1991-11-15 | |
| US792,961 | 1991-11-15 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2059736C true CA2059736C (en) | 1993-05-16 |
| CA2059736A1 CA2059736A1 (en) | 1993-05-16 |
Family
ID=25158625
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002059736A Expired - Fee Related CA2059736C (en) | 1991-11-15 | 1992-01-21 | Automatic numbering identification system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2059736C (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN110492187B (en) * | 2019-07-17 | 2022-10-04 | 威睿电动汽车技术(宁波)有限公司 | Battery module serial number automatic identification method and battery management system |
-
1992
- 1992-01-21 CA CA002059736A patent/CA2059736C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2059736A1 (en) | 1993-05-16 |
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