CA2099190A1 - Electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call, and method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE

The electronic communication and switching system is for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging the call in real time. The system comprises a central processor unit provided with memory means for storing data, a software with a table for executing internal validation and a computer program, a real time clock, a first modem for communication with a telephone service centre, a second modem for communication with a credit card validation centre, and a communication interface for communication with other processors; and at least one switching processor unit comprising a digital section provided with memory means for storing data and a computer program, a real time clock, and a communication interface for communication with the central processor unit, and at least one analog section connected to the digital section.

Description

DEMANDES OU BREVETS VOLUMINEUX

LA PRÉSENTE PARTIE DE CETTE DEMANDE OU CE BREVET
COMPREND PLUS D'UN TOME.

CECI EST LE TOME / DE qL

NOTE: Pour les tomes additionels, veuillez contacter IQ Bureau canadien des brevets ~ q ~

ji JUMBO APPLICATIONS/PATENTS

THIS SECTION OF THE APPLICATION/PATENT C:ONTAINS MORE
THAN ONE VOLUME

THIS IS VOLUME / OF

NOTE: For additional volumes please contact the Canadian Patent Office , ,' ' , ~, ,' , - 2099~ ~0 ELECTRONIC coMMnNIcATIoN AND SWITCHING SYSTEM
` FOR CONTROLLING AND SWITCHING A TELEPHONE CALL. AND
METHOD THEREOF

The present invention relates to an electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and chargin~ the call in real time, and to a method thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

Known in the art, there is the US Patent, 4,935,956 of Hellwarth et al, granted on June l9th, 1990, in which there is described an automated public phone control for charge and collect billing. The charge and collect-call functions of the public telephone are arranged automatically by a microcomputer system preferably connected on customer premises between the phone terminal instrument and the local loop, wherein control of the instrument, network signalling and call placement voice prompting of the call parties, recognition of responses from the parties and the network, call detail records of numbers and timings, and data , 25 communications with other computers are accomplished by the microcomputer system without requiring human operator assistance or the transmission of calls over excessive ' distances to reach such an operator.
In the above patent, it is mentioned that the system can be expanded to more than one line, but after reviewing the description and the drawings, it can be seen that it cannot be done in an efficient and integrated system but rather implemented as a cluster of independent and none interactive machines.

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209~190 Also known in the art, there are the following US
patents:
- 4,791,640 - 4,750,201 - 4,897,8~5 - 4,439,636 - 4,731,818 - 4,777,646 10 One draw back with the above mentioned patents is that they do not provide an electronic communication and switching system or a method by which a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument can be controlled and switched with respect to different communication trunks, and by which the call can be charged in real time.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to different communication trunks and charging the call in real time, in an efficient manner.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a method of operating an electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging the call in real time, in an efficient manner.

SUMMARY OF TH~ INVENTION:

According to the present invention, there is provided:
The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

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2099~90 an electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging said call in real time, comprising:
5a central processor unit comprising a central processor having means for execution of a computer program, said central processor unit being provided with memory means for storing data, a software with a table for executing internal validation and said computer program, a real time clock, a first modem for communication with a telephone service - centre, a second modem for communication with a credit card validation centre, and a communication interface for communication with other processors; and at least one switching processor unit comprising:
15a digital section including a peripheral processor having means for execution of a computer program, said digital section being provided with memory means for storing data and said computer program, a real time clock, and a communication interface for communication with said central processor; and at least one analog section connected to said digital section, including:
a call input interface for receiving said telephone call from said telephone instrument;
a main switcher having a first input/output connected to said call input interface for switching said call, said main switcher being controlled by said peripheral processor;
a call output interface connected to a second input/output of said main switcher;
a secondary switcher connected to said call output interface for switching said call received from said main switcher to one of said communication trunks, said secondary switcher being controlled by said peripheral '; ' 2Q99 ~ ~0 processor;
monitor means connected to said call input and output interfaces for monitoring transmission of said call via said call input and output interfac~s, said monitoring means being monitored by said peripheral processor;
a tone generator connected to an input of said main switcher, said tone generator being controlled by said peripheral processor;
answer detecting means connected to an output of said main switcher, said answer detecting means being monitored by said peripheral processor;
a dial tone modulated frequency transceiver having input and output connected respectively to output and input of said main switcher, said dial tone modulated frequency being controlled and monitored by said peripheral processor; and a voice decoder connected to an input of said main switcher, said voice decoder being controlled by said peripheral processor;
whereby said system communicates with a calling party by means of said voice decoder, receives information relating to a call to be performed and how to charge said call by means of said dial tone modulated frequency transceiver, validates said call by means of said central processor unit through either said internal validation or one of said modems, switches said call to one of said communication trunks by means of said main and secondary switcher when validation is obtained by means of said central processor unit, and charges said call in real time when said call is terminated.

Also, according to the present invention, there is provided a method of operating an electronic communication .

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and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging said call in real time, said system comprising a microprocessor unit provided with memory means, modems and a verbal message generator, said method comprising steps of:
(a) monitoring said telephone instrument to detect when a calling party picks up said telephone instrument;
(b) if said calling party picks up said telephone instrument, transmitting a verbal message to the calling party for identifying the present method;
(c) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party for requesting a response concerning type of call and mode of invoicing;
(d) detecting a touch tone response from the callins party concerning the type of call and mode of invoicing;
(e) if the type of call requested by said calling party cannot be processed and charged by the present system, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter a telephone number, switching said calling party to a local telephone company via one of said communication trunks, disconnecting said communication trunk when said calling party hangs up, and returning to step (a):
(f) if the type of call requested by said calling party can be processed and charged by the present system, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter a telephone number;
(g) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning said telephone number, and storing said telephone number in said memory means;
~ h) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter a credit card number or a debit number;

2~190 (i) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning said credit card or debit number, and storing said credit card or debit number in said memory means;
(j) if said calling party has entered a credit card number, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter an expiration date;
(k) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning said expiration date, and storing said expiration date in said memory means;
(1) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to wait, and verifying said credit card or debit number entered by said calling party;
(m) if said credit card or debit number is not valid, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party indicating that the present system cannot process said telephone number requested by said calling party, and returning to step (a);
(n) if said credit card or debit number is valid, switching the present system to one of said communication trunks, dialling said telephone number over said communication trunk and monitoring a response from said .~ communication trunk;
(o) if said response is detected from said : 25 communication trunk, recording start time, switching said calling party to said destination party to establish a communication and monitoring termination of said communication between said calling and destination parties;
(p) if said termination is detected, disconnecting said communication trunk, recording ending time of said communication, recording data relating to said communication, computing charges for said communication, charging said charges in real time,.and returning to step (a); and ' .

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2~997' ~e (q) monitoring said telephone instrument to detect when said calling party hangs up and, when said calling party hangs up, returning to step (a).

The objects, advantages and other features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of a preferred embodiment thereof, given for the purpose of exemplification only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

Figure 1 is a block diagram showing how a system according to the present invention is connected to peripheral equipments.
Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a portion of the system shown in figure 1.
Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a portion of the system shown in figure 1.
Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a portion of the system shown in figure 1.
Figure 5 is a block diagram showing a portion a the system shown in figure 1;
Figure 6 is a block diagram showing a portion of the system shown in figure 1;
Figures 7 A to 7 G is a flow chart diagram showing a method according to the present invention.

DET~ILED DFSCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
Referring now to figure 1, there is shown the electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument 4 to communication trunks which are .
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2099~ 9~

Bell lines 56 and reseller lines 58, and charging the call in real time. The telephone instruments 4 are connected to the system 2 by means of a PBX system 10. The system 2 comprises a first modem 12 for communication with a telephone service centre by means of a regular Bell line 14, and a second modem 16 for communication with a credit card validation centre which is a 3201 data pack line 18. The J other components of the system 2 at the exception of modems 12 and 16 are included in controlling and switching section 20.

The communication and switching system 2 is installed at the client location near the PBX system 10. Controlling and switching section 20 is provided with different inputs and outputs for communicating with peripheral equipments at the client location. Section 20 comprises an output 22 for connection to a printer, and input/output 24 for connection to a computer, an input 26 providing a RS232 communication input port and an output 28 for providing information relating to accounting.
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Referring now to figure 2 there is shown in block diagram the main components of the communication and switching system shown in figure 1. The communication and switching system comprises a central processor unit 30 and at least one switching processor unit 32. In this figure 2, there is shown two switching processor units but additional switching processor units can be also connected to central processor unit 30. Each switching processor unit 32 is connected to the central processor unit 30 by means of a cable 34. A power transformer 36 received a filtered 110 VAC by means of its input 38, and has an output 40 connected to central processor unit 30. Also, the different inputs and outputs 56, 58, 14, 18, 22, 24, 26 and 28 shown in , : ' - ' , . . -, .

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figure 1 are also shown in this figure 2. Each of inputs and outputs, 22, 24, 26 and 28 and the inputs/outputs connected between central processor unit 30 and modems 12 and 16 are RS232 communications links. Each of the switching processor unit 32 is provided with two channels 50 and 52. Each channel has an input 54 for receiving PPX
trunk, an output 56 for connection to a Bell trunk, and other outputs 58 for connection to reseller trunks.

Referring now to figure 3, there is shown with more details the central processor unit 30 shown in fiqure 2.
The central processor unit comprises a central processor 70 having means for execution of a computer program. The central processor unit is provided with memories 72 and 74 for storing data, a software with a table for executing internal validation and said computer program. A real time clock 76 is also provided. The central processor unit also comprises a communication interface which comprises eight RJIIC eight-wire jac~s 78 for communication with processors of switching processing units 32 shown in figure 2 by means of cables 34 also shown in figure 2. The software with a table is relating to a debit account.
, A UART port 80 of processor 70 is connected to a RS-485 circuit 82 which is connected to jacks 78. A reset port 84 `~ of processor 70 is connected to an output of power watchdog circuit 86 which has an output connected to jacks 78. Also, - power watchdog circuit 86 has an output 88 for powering other circuits and components of central processor unit.
Power watchdog circuit 86 has also an input 90 for receiving a nine volt AC supply. The central processor unit comprises a communication bus 92 which is connected to six UART and RS232 circuits 94, 96, 98, 100, 102, 104. UART and RS-232 circuits 94 and 96 are connected respectively to modems 12 ---` 2 ~ 9 ~

and 16 shown in figure 2. UART and RS232 circuits 98, 100, 102, 104 provide inputs and outputs 22, 24, 26 and 28 which are also shown in figures 1 and 2. The communication bus 92 is connected to a data/address/control port 106 of processor 70. The communication bus 92 is also connected to memories 72 and 74 and to clock 76. The communication bus g2 is also connected to registers 110 and buffers 112. Registers 110 are connected to LEDs 114, and buffers 112 are connected to dip switch 116. The communication between processor 70 and processors of switching processor units 32 shown in figure 2 is made by means of RS-48s circuit 82.
Referring now to figures 2 and 3, the central processor unit 30 comprises power supply which includes power transformer 36. Each of switching processor units 32 is connected to central processor unit 30 by means of a cable 34 which comprises at least five wires which include two communication wires for the RS-485 link circuit, two power wires for providing power supply voltage from central processor unit 30 to switching processor units 32 and one wire for grounding. Each of the switching processor units 32 shown in figure 2, comprises a digital section and at least one analog section.
Referring now to figure 4, there is shown the digital section of one switching processor unit. This digital section includes a peripheral processor 120 having means for execution of a computer program. The digital section is provided with memory 122 for storing the computer program, and RAM memory 124 for storing data. The digital section also comprises a real time clock 126. Memory 122, RAM
memory 124 and clock 126 are connected to processor 120 by means of communication bus 128 which is connected to a data/address/control port 130 of processor 120.
Communication bus 128 is also connected to registers 132 which are connected to LEDs 134. Communication bus 128 is ~9~ ~0 also connected to buffers 136 which are connected to dip switches 138. Cable 34 shown in figure 2 is connected to RJIIC eight-wire jack 140 which is connected to a RS-485 circuit 142 and to a power circuit 144. RS-485 circuit 142 is connected to a UAR~ port 146 of processor 120. A
watchdog output of power circuit 144 i5 connected to a reset port 148 of processor 120. A communication interface is provided by means of jack 140 and RS-485 circuit 142 for communication between processor 120 and processor 70 of central processor unit shown in figure 3.

The digital section is provided with inputs and outputs 150, 152, 154, 156, 158 and 160 for communication with analog sections shown in figure 5 and 6. Communication bus 128 is connected to registers 162 which are connected the analog sections, and to buffers 164 which receive signal from the analog sections. Output 154 is connected to a crosspoint switch of the analog sections, output 156 is connected to DTMF transceivers of the analog sections, output 158 is connected to 982 call progress detectors of the analog sections and output 160 is connected to 991 call progress generators of the analog sections. Processor 120 has a direct memory access port 166 for receiving signals from voice circuit of the analog sections. Processor 120 has also an interrupted port 168 for receiving a signal from a power fail clock DTMF circuit of the analog sections.

In each of the switching processor units 32 shown in figure 2, there are two channels 50 and 52, which means that each switching processor unit 32 has two analog sections.
These two analog sections are shown respectively in figures 5 and 6.
Referring now to figures 5 and 6, each analog section is connected to the corresponding digital section, and - 2~3 ' ~

includes a call input interface for receiving a telephone call from a telephone instrument via a Psx trunk 54. The call input interface comprises a DAA loop 180 and 182, and a hybrid amp with talk switch circuit 184 and 186. An output of hybrid amp with talk switch circuit 184 and 186 is connected to a main switcher 188. Each of the analog section shown in figure 5 and 6 use the same main switcher 188. The main switcher 188 has first inputs/outputs 190 and 192 connected to the corresponding call input interface. The main switcher 188 is controlled by the processor of the corresponding digital section.
Each analog section has a call output interface connected to second inputs/outputs 194 and 196 of main switcher 188. Each call output interface is made of a DAA
loop 198 and 200. An output of DAA loop 198 and 200 is connected to secondary switcher 202 and 204 for switching a call received from main switcher 188 to one of Bell and reseller trunks 56 and 58. Each secondary switcher 202 and 204 is controlled by the processor of the corresponding digital section. Each analog section is provided with monitor 206, 208, 210 and 212 connected to corresponding DAA
loop 180, 182, 198 and 200 of call input and output interfaces from monitoring transmission of a call via said call input and output interfaces. Monitor 206, 208, 210 and 212 are connected to the processor of the corresponding digital section.

Call progress M991 tone generators 216 and 218 are connected to inputs 220 and 222 of main switcher 188. Each of tone generators 216 and 218 is controlled by the processor of the corresponding digital section. Each analog section comprises two answer detectors 224, 226, 228 and 230 which are connected respectively to outputs 232 and 234 of ~ain switcher 288 via amplifiers 233, 236, 238, 240, 242 and 2 0 ~

244. Amplifiers 236 and 242 are AGC amplifiers. Answer detectors 226 and 230 are 982 answer detectors. Outputs of answer detectors 224, 226, 228 and 230 are connected to buffers 164 of the digital section shown in figure 4 so that said answer detectors be monitored by the processor of the corresponding digital section. Monitors 206, 208, 210 and 212 are also connected to buffers 164 of figure 4. Each of tone generators 216 and 218 have inputs 250 and 252 connected to the communication bus of the corresponding digital section, and input 254 and 256 connected to registers 162 shown in figure 4.

Each analog section comprises a dial tone modulated frequency transceiver 260 and 262 connected to an output 232 and 234 of main switcher 188 via amplifiers 233 and 240. The transceivers 260 and 262 have inputs/outputs 270 and 272 connected to communication bus 128 shown in figure 4, and outputs 274 and 276 connected to interrupt port 168 shown in figure 4. Transceivers 260 and 262 are also connected to inputs 280 and 282 of main switcher 188 via amplifiers 284 and 286. Transceivers 260 and 262 are controlled and monitored by the processor of the corresponding digital section.

Each analog section also comprises voice decoders with filters 290 and 292 which are connected to input 280 and 282 of main switcher 188 via amplifier 284 and 286. Voice decoders with filters 290 and 292 have input 294 and 296 connected to communication bus 128 shown in figure 4 so that said voice decoders be controlled by the processor of the corresponding digital section.

The present system communicates with a calling party by means of a voice decoder 190 or 192, receives information ' ::
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, - -- 20991~0 relating to a call to be performed and how to charge the call by means of a dial tone modulated frequency transceiver 260 or 262, validates and charges the call by mean of the central processor unit shown in figure 3 through modem 16 shown in figure 2, if the call has to be charged on a credit card account or through an internal validation with a table stored in memory 74 of central processor unit if the call has to be charged on a debit account, switches the call to one of the communication trunks 56 and 58 by means of main ; 10 and secondary switchers 188 and 202 or 204 when validation is obtained by means of the central processor unit, and charges said call in real time by means of modem 16 if it has to be charged in a credit card account or by means of internal processing in the central processor unit if it has 15 to be charged on a debit account, when the call is terminated.

Referring now to figures 5 and 6 it can be seen that the switching processor unit 32 shown in figure 2 comprises - 20 two analog sections which are shown respectively in figures 5 and 6. These two analog sections form two independently operating channels. As the two analog sections use the same main switcher 188, when the component of one of the channels is not operative, the processor of one digital section Y 25 selects the corresponding component in the other channel by mean of switcher 188 so that said one channel is kept in operation.

Referring to figures 5 and 6, the analog sections comprise voice encoders with filters 300 and 302 connected to outputs 232 and 234 of main switcher 188 via amplifiers 233 and 240. Each voice encoder with filter 300 and 302 is connected to the processor of the corresponding digital section so that a user can register voice messages in ' .
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991~0 of voice encoder 300 or 302. Voice encoders and filters 300 and 302 have outputs 306 and 308 connected to communication bus 128 shown in figure 4. Voice decoders and voice encoders have outputs 310 and 312 connected to DMA port 166 of processor 120 shown in figure 4.
Referring to figures 1 to 6, the present system can process calls coming from a PBX system 10 or any Tip and Ring equipment in a call accounting procedure where the system charges in real time the communication requested by the user on its credit card account, and selects an appropriate line so that the user can do his call.

On one side, the system is connected to a PBX system 10 which is linked to several telephones 4 which are available to the user. On the other side, the system is connected to Bell trunks 56 and reseller trunks 58 which are used for operating the call requested by the user.

Also, the system is connected to a service centre by means of modem 12 linked to a regular Bell line by which the service centre can operate a remote parameter programming of the system, a remote rate programming of the system, a ; remote diagnostic procedure of the system, and a daily call collection. The system is also connected to 3201 Data Pack line 18 by means of modem 16 by which the system can obtain a credit card validation. Also, the system is provided with several inputs/outputs 22,24,26 and 28 for linking the system to several equipments at the user end.

30The system has a central processor unit 30 which serves as a hub for peripheral services such as modems, printer, computers, PBX system and call accounting, and is also the the control dispatcher between all trunks 56 and 58.
Communication with the peripheral services is done via six 1~~9~-90 RS-232 ports. The modem 12 is a regular modem (2400 or 9600 Baud) that is used mainly to communicate with the service centre (not shown) which can control several systems in a territory.

The modem 16 is used to connect the system to a 3201 Data Pack which provides quick access to any credit call validating service (from 4 to 6 seconds). By this modem 16, the system can validate a credit card account and make a deposit to the service centre's account against customers' accounts.

The system is provided with an output 22 for connection to a printer equipped with a serial RS-232 interface. The printer can be used for general purposes. It can print each of the phone calls processed by the system to allow a monitoring of the operations of the system.

The system can be integrated into a wider existing system such as property management system computer, PBX
system, and call accounting computer by means of its ports 24, 26 and 28.

Telephone control is actually done through switching processor units 32 which are connected to output lines of the PBX system 10. These output lines of the PBX system are used as input for the user. These switching processor units 32 are also connected to the Bell trunks 56 or reseller trunks 58. The switching processor units 32 can route the call to one of said Bell and reseller trunks 56 and 58 depending on the telephone number dialled by the user or the selection of the user, which can be done by means of the telephone handset of its telephone apparatus.

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, -~ 20~J 90 The switching processor units 32 have voice decoders ; 290 and 292 which are voice prompting circuits which assist the user in determining the required selection. All circuits pertaining to the telephone operation are on the switching processor unit 32. Whenever a switching processor unit 32 needs data from central processor unit 30 or needs to send data to control unit 30, it is done by means of RS-485 serial links. The RS-485 link was developed for long distance high speed communications to multiple devices. It is comparable in function and purpose to RS-232 link but it is much more powerful.

To each switching processor unit 32 is assigned an address and only the central unit 30 can transfer data to an assigned switching processor unit 32. The other switching processor units 32 ignore communication on the bus, although they are all listening to data exchanges. The RS-485 links are used internally between central unit 30 and switching units 32 on very short distances.
Only two conductors are needed to implement a RS-485 link. This link does not even require a common ground because it uses differential amplifiers. The power supply comes from a power transformer 36 which supplies the central processor unit 30. In turn, the central processor unit 30 supplies all switching processor units 32. Several cables 34 are respectively connected between the central processor unit 30 and switching units 32. For exampie, the central unit 30 has eight jacks 78, one for each of the switching processor units 32. The central unit 30 and each of switching units 32 are connected by means of a eight-wire flat telephone cable 34 which comprises two wires for RS-485 link, two wires for AC power distributing from central unit 30 to each of switching units 32, and two other wires for - ' , :-. -. .

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2~9 ' ~0 earth ground connection. The remaining two wires in a cable 34 are not used for the moment.

The central unit 30 has its own independent processor 70. The processor 70 is provided with the appropriate software to operate all peripheral devices, respond to all switching units 32, generate internal test and display status on LEDs. It has RAM storage 72 to store all calls processed by switching units 32 and to fill its own memory requirement. The RS-485 circuit 82 is connected to a UART
port 80 of processor 70. It operates on an interrupt basis for quick response. The AC power is distributed through the RJIIC jacks 7~ to all other switching units 32. There is also a power watchdog circuit 86 that acts as a watchdog to protect the processor in case of power failure, control loss, etc.

Each of the six RS-232 circuits 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 and 10~ is protected against high surges on the lines. A
calendar clock 76 provides accurate time and data for the system. The central unit 30 has LEDs 114 used to show status of different operations. An eight-position dip ; switch 116 is used for csntrol purposes such as unit number assignment or LED selection display.
,~ 25 The digital section of switching unit 32 is almost identical to the one of central unit 30. It has additional registers 162 and buffers 164 for controlling its corresponding analog sections. It has also RAM storage 124 for voice date storage. The RAM storage 124 can buffer calls during busy periods of central unit 30.
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The processor 120 uses its DMA port 166 to control voice capture and generation. This digital section controls ,' ' ` . , ,, .
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two analog sections which represent two telephone channelson a same unit. It is not limited to this number and could accommodate more channels. Unit size and processor speed are the only limiting factors.

As it can be seen in figures 5 and 6, each of the analog channels is similar and more channels can be added.

Referring more specifically to Figure 5, the channel is connected to a Psx line 54. Instead of going directly to the corresponding sell line 56, it is intercepted and can be routed to other lines 58, depending on program parameters and customer selection. The PBX line 54 is connected to a DAA loop 182 which is connected to a monitor 210 to sense if the PBX line 54 is in the on-hook or off-hook state, and to detect whether the line is busy or available.

The DAA loop 182 isolates and protects the PBX line 54 from the system. The DAA lop 182 can connect or disconnect the PBX line 54. Because of losses in DAA loop 182 and PBX
line 54, the system uses a hybrid amplifier with a talk switch circuit 186 which is also connected to switcher 188.
The switcher 188 is also connected to another DAA loop 200 for the same reason as the one mentioned above. The monitor 212 is also used for the same reason as mentioned above.

The switcher 188 is a hub which connects the different circuits of the system together as needed. Because switcher 188 is shared by both channels, it can borrow circuits in one channel and use them for the other channel when circuits of one channel are not operative.

The voice decoder 290 is able to record and play-back " ' , ~

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voice or tones. Voice input normally comes from the PBX
line 54. Play-back is used during prompting for assistance during user selection of call routing. Voice decoder 290 can be used to provide tones that are needed, for example, by the DTMF transceiver 260 and the call progress tone generator 216.
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The voice decoder 290 is built based on a commercially available IC to record or generate audio to digital data.
It uses a variable slope delta modulator and demodulator .~
technique. The voice decoder and filter 290 is connected to an amplifier 284 for impedance matching, filtering and amplification. The recording section has an amplifier 233.
Amplifiers 233 and 284 are shared with other circuits such as DTMF transceiver 260 and answer detectors 224 and 226.
They provide the same functions to all of those circuits.

; The DTMF transceiver 260 is used to detect and generate DTMF tones. The call progress generator 216 generates dial tone and busy tone. The answer detectors 224 and 226 detect that a call has been answered. They can distinguish between a ring signal, a busy signal or an answer. This feature is normally accomplished by Bell with their equipment on the called end. It is accurate and when implemented by Bell, it -25 is called answer supervision. But Bell keeps answer supervision information on its own network and eliminates it from the caller's lines. As we are located on the caller's end, the system is deprived from answer supervision data.
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Also, answer detectors 224 and 226 are needed for billing purposes. They must discriminate all the possible tones from the voice and noises. There are two answer detectors 224 and 226 to implement the answer detection function. The answer detector 224 recognizes the standard .

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call progress tone such as ringing and busy signals in North America and any country following the North America standards. The second answer detection 226 is needed when North America Standards are not followed, for instance for some international calls. The second answer detection 226 monitors the activity on the called end and provides data to the software of processor 120 such as zero crossing on each audio cycle or period. Most of the work is done by software for discriminating and recognition of an answer. This software is looking mainly a cyclic pattern and signature in the signal. The answer detection supervision uses resulting data from both answer detectors 224 and 226 to decide which event is actually taking place.

In operation, when a user picks up a phone 4 of the PBX
system 10 and dials an access code, its call is routed to DAA loop 182 by means of the corresponding PBX line 54. The DAA loop 182 then routes the call to monitor 210 which detects on-line condition on the PBX lines 54. The-processor 120 will then enable the call progress generator 216 to generate a dial tone, enable DTMF transceiver 260, enable hybrid amp with talk switch 186, and activate - switcher 188 so that it connects the hybrid amp with talk switch 186 to amplifier 233 and to call progress generator 25 216. Now the call is going from 182 to 186 to 188 to 233 to 260, and a tone signal is going from 216 to 188 to 186 to 182. The user hears a dial tone and the system is ready to capture DTMF signals.

When the user dials 0, it passes from the DAA loop 182 to DTMF transceiver 260. DTMF transceiver 260 detects 0 and informs processor 120. DTMF transceiver 260 will then wait for other digits during a predetermined time period.

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Processor 120 will then send a voice prompting message to user by disabling generator 216, disconnecting generator 216 from switcher 188, keeping transceiver 260 enabled, connecting amplifier 233 to switcher 188, connecting voice decoder 290 to amplifier 284 to switcher 188 to talk switch circuit 186 to DAA loop 182 to the PBX line 54, and activating generation of a voice message. The user hears the message and is prompted to enter a number on its phone for its selection.
After user selection, transceiver 260 informs processor 120 of selection and generates another message for service selection.

When the user selects to charge on its credit card, processor 120 enables the generation of the voice message to inquire about the telephone number. This telephone number is entered by the user on its telephone apparatus, and stored in the RAM storage 124. Processor will then enable the generation of a voice message to inquire about credit card number. This credit card number is entered by the user by means of its telephone apparatus. A first verification of this credit card number is done by processor 120 which checks the credit card number with a Modula Ten formula to verify validity of the number. The number is then stored in the RAM storage 124.

Processor 120 uses monitor 212, DAA loop 200 and switcher 204 to verify whether a reseller line is available and ready. If it is, it will request from central processor unit 30, to perform a credit card validation before continuing further. Processor 70 of the central unit 30 uses UART and RS-232 circuit 96 to communica~e with a credit card validation centre and receive acceptation or denial for , , -- 20~ ~ 90 the account in question. Processor 70 of the central unit 30 will then return the answer to the appropriate switching unit 32 through RS-485 circuits 82 and 142.

If the answer is negative, processor 120 will generate a message indicating to the user that the telephone number cannot be dialled. Processor 120 will then disconnect all circuits and terminate the operation.

If the answer is positive, processor 120 will then check if the reseller line present at the switcher 204 is still ready. If it is, processor 120 will connect DTMF
transceiver 260 to one of reseller trunks 58 by means of amplifier 284, switcher 188, DAA loop 200 and switcher 204, dial the stored telephone number that the user has entered, disconnect DTMF transceiver 260 from switcher 188, connect hybrid amp with talk switch 186 to one of Bell and reseller ; trunks 56 or 58. Also, processor 120 will connect DAA loop 200 to answer detectors 224 and 226 by means of amplifiers 233, 236 and 238 and by means of switcher 188. The talk switch 186 is open to prevent noise on the user's side to get to answer detectors 224 and 226. Only signals from the trunk side are thus processed.

When answer detectors 224 and 226 and processor 120 detect an answer, processor 120 disconnects answer detectors 224 and 226 from switcher 188, connect talk switch 186 to DAA loop 200 by means of switcher 188 so that user can talk with party at the trunk side, and start timing of the call by means of calendar clock 126.

When user hangs up, monitor 210 detects it and informs processor 120 which will disconnect all circuits, stop timing of the call, compute duration of the call and use RS-, , .. ~ .

` ` - 20~9~ ~0 485 circuits 142 and 82 to send all data (phone number, duration, credit card number, etc.) to processor 70 of central unit 30.
Processor 70 of central unit 30 will then compute charges of call using compressed rate ta~les stored in memory 74 and RAM memory 72. It will also add profit and taxes to compute total charges. All call data are stored in RAM memory 72 for later retrieval. If a printer is connected to central unit 30, certain information relating to the call can be sent to the printer via output 22. Then, the centr~l unit 30 will communicate with credit card services for deposit in a bank account the amount of the total charge for the call against the user account by means of UART and RS-232 circuit 96. The whole operation is now terminated. The analog section shown if figure 6 operates as the one shown if figure 5.

The above description is referring to a case where the user uses its credit card account but a similar procedure can be done with a debit account. In the case of a debit account, the validation and charging is done internally in the central processor unit 30 by means of a software with a table stored in a memory thereof.

Referring now to figures 7A to 7G there is shown a method of operating an electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging the call in a real time. The system comprises a microprocessor unit provided with memory means, modems and a verbal message generator.

The method comprises steps of (a) monitoring the telephone instrument to detect when calling party picks up . .

... . . .

" 2~91~0 the telephone instrument; (b) if the calling party picks up the telephone instrum~nt, transmitting a verbal message to the calling party for identifying the present method; (c) transmitting a verbal message to the calling party for requesting a response concerning type of call and mode of invoicing; (d) detecting a touch tone response from the calling party concerning the type of call and mode of invoicing; (e) if the type of call requested by the calling party cannot be processed and charged by the present system, transmitting a verbal message to the calling party to invite him to enter a telephone number, switching the calling party to a local telephone company such as bell via one of the communication trunk, disconnecting the communication trunk when the calling party hangs up, and returning to step (a);
(f) if the type of call requested by the calling party can be processed and charged by the present system, transmitting a verbal message to calling party to invite him to enter a telephone number; (g) detecting a touch tone response from calling party concerning the telephone number, and storing the telephone number and said memory means; (h) transmitting a verbal message to the calling party to invite him to enter a credit card number or a debit number; (i) detecting a touch tone response from the calling party concerning the credit card or debit number and storing the credit card or :25 debit number in the memory means; (j) if the calling party ~,has entered a credit card number, transmitting a verbal message to the calling party to invite him to enter an expiration date; (k) detecting a touch tone response from the calling party concerning the expiration date, and storing the expiration date in the memory means; (l) transmitting a verbal message to the calling party to invite him to wait, and verifying the credit card or debit number entered by the calling party; (m) if the credit card or debit number is not valid, transmitting a verbal message to .
~, , , .
- .

2~1 90 the calling party indicating that the present system cannot process the telephone number requested by the calling party and returning to step (a); (n) if the credit card or debit number is valid, switching the present system to one of the communication trunk, dialling the telephone number over the communication trunk and monitoring a response from the communication trunk; (o) if a response is detected from the communication trunk, recording start time, switching the calling party to the destination party to establish a communication, and monitoring termination of the communication between the calling and destination parties;
(p) if the termination is detected, disconnecting the communication trunk, recording ending time of the communication, recording data relating to the communication, computing charges for the communication, charging said charges in real time, and returning to step (al; and (q) monitoring the telephone instrument to detect when the . calling party hangs up and, when the calling party hangs up, ; returning to step (a).
The method,further comprises steps of (i) transmitting a verbal message to the calling party for requesting from him a response concerning a language of operation: and (ii) . detecting a touch tone response from the calling party-concerning the language Gf operation in setting the verbalmessage generator accordingly.

A set of programs have been written for the central and peripheral processor units.
- Explicit listings of the actual program statements of the central processor unit start on page 27, and actual program statements of peripheral processor unit start on page 340.

-.
,,, . .:

DEMANDES OU BREVETS VOLUMINEUX

LA PRÉSENTE PARTIE DE CETTE DEMANDE OU CE BREVET
CONIPREND PLUS D'UN TOME.

CECI EST LE TOME / DE 't NOTE: Pour les tomes additionels, veuillez contacter le Bureau canadien des brevet~ .

~ 591 ~ o .

JUMBO APPLICATIONS/PATENTS

THIS SECTION OF THE APPLICATION/PATENT CONTAINS MORE
THAN ONE VOLUME

. THIS IS VOLUME / OF

NOTE: For additional volumes please contact the Canadian Patent Office , . .
" ~ ' '

Claims (12)

1. An electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging said call in real time, comprising:
a central processor unit comprising a central processor having means for execution of a computer program, said central processor unit being provided with memory means for storing data, a software with a table for executing internal validation and said computer program, a real time clock, a first modem for communication with a telephone service centre, a second modem for communication with a credit card validation centre, and a communication interface for communication with other processors; and at least one switching processor unit comprising:
a digital section including a peripheral processor having means for execution of a computer program, said digital section being provided with memory means for storing data and said computer program, a real time clock, and a communication interface for communication with said central processor; and at least one analog section connected to said digital section, including:
a call input interface for receiving said telephone call from said telephone instrument;
a main switcher having a first input/output connected to said call input interface for switching said call, said main switcher being controlled by said peripheral processor;
a call output interface connected to a second input/output of said main switcher;
a secondary switcher connected to said call output interface for switching said call received from said main switcher to one of said communication trunks, said secondary switcher being controlled by said peripheral processor;
monitor means connected to said call input and output interfaces for monitoring transmission of said call via said call input and output interfaces, said monitoring means being monitored by said peripheral processor;
a tone generator connected to an input of said main switcher, said tone generator being controlled by said peripheral processor;
answer detecting means connected to an output of said main switcher, said answer detecting means being monitored by said peripheral processor;
a dial tone modulated frequency transceiver having input and output connected respectively to output and input of said main switcher, said dial tone modulated frequency being controlled and monitored by said peripheral processor;
and a voice decoder connected to an input of said main switcher, said voice decoder being controlled by said peripheral processor;
whereby said system communicates with a calling party by means of said voice decoder, receives information relating to a call to be performed and how to charge said call by means of said dial tone modulated frequency transceiver, validates said call by means of said central processor unit through either said internal validation or one of said modems, switches said call to one of said communication trunks by means of said main and secondary switcher when validation is obtained by means of said central processor unit, and charges said call in real time when said call is terminated.

2. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 1, wherein:
said switching processor unit comprises two analog sections which forms two independently operating channels;
and said main switchers of said two analog sections are made of a single switcher;
whereby when a component of one of said channels is not operative, the peripheral microprocessor selects the corresponding component in the other channel by means of said single switcher so that said one channel be kept in operation.

3. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 1, wherein said communication interfaces for communication between said central processor and said peripheral processor of said at least one switching processor unit are made a RS-485 link circuit.

4. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 3, wherein said central processor unit comprises a power supply, and wherein each switching processor unit is connected to said central processor unit by means of a cable comprising at least five wires which include two communication wires for the RS-485 link circuit, two power wires for providing the power supply voltage from the central processor unit to the corresponding switching processor unit and one wire for grounding.

5. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 1, wherein said at least one analog section comprises a voice encoder provided with a filter, connected to an output of said main switcher, said voice encoder being connected to said peripheral processor so that a user registers voice messages in digital form in the memory means of said digital section by means of said voice encoder.

6. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 2, wherein said communication interfaces for communication between said central processor and said peripheral processor of said at least one switching processor unit are made a RS-485 link circuit.

7. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 2, wherein said at least one analog section comprises a voice encoder provided with a filter, connected to an output of said main switcher, said voice encoder being connected to said peripheral processor so that a user registers voice messages in digital form in the memory means of said digital section by means of said voice encoder.

8. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 3, wherein said at least one analog section comprises a voice encoder provided with a filter, connected to an output of said main switcher, said voice encoder being connected to said peripheral processor so that a user registers voice messages in digital form in the memory means of said digital section by means of said voice encoder.

9. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 4, wherein said at least one analog section comprises a voice encoder provided with a filter, connected to an output of said main switcher, said voice encoder being connected to said peripheral processor so that a user registers voice messages in digital form in the memory means of said digital section by means of said voice encoder.

10. An electronic communication and switching system according to claim 1, wherein said software with a table is relating to a debit account.

11. A method of operating an electronic communication and switching system for controlling and switching a telephone call from a touch tone telephone instrument to communication trunks, and charging said call in real time, said system comprising a microprocessor unit provided with memory means, modems and a verbal message generator, said method comprising steps of:
(a) monitoring said telephone instrument to detect when a calling party picks up said telephone instrument;
(b) if said calling party picks up said telephone instrument, transmitting a verbal message to the calling party for identifying the present method;
(c) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party for requesting a response concerning type of call and mode of invoicing;
(d) detecting a touch tone response from the calling party concerning the type of call and mode of invoicing;
(e) if the type of call requested by said calling party cannot be processed and charged by the present system, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter a telephone number, switching said calling party to a local telephone company via one of said communication trunks, disconnecting said communication trunk when said calling party hangs up, and returning to step (a);
(f) if the type of call requested by said calling party can be processed and charged by the present system, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter a telephone number;
(g) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning said telephone number, and storing said telephone number in said memory means;
(h) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter a credit card number or a debit number;
(i) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning said credit card or debit number, and storing said credit card or debit number in said memory means;
(j) if said calling party has entered a credit card number, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to enter an expiration date;
(k) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning said expiration date, and storing said expiration date in said memory means;
(l) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party to invite said calling party to wait, and verifying said credit card or debit number entered by said calling party;
(m) if said credit card or debit number is not valid, transmitting a verbal message to said calling party indicating that the present system cannot process said telephone number requested by said calling party, and returning to step (a);
(n) if said credit card or debit number is valid, switching the present system to one of said communication trunks, dialling said telephone number over said communication trunk and monitoring a response from said communication trunk;
(o) if said response is detected from said communication trunk, recording start time, switching said calling party to said destination party to establish a communication and monitoring termination of said communication between said calling and destination parties;
(p) if said termination is detected, disconnecting said communication trunk, recording ending time of said communication, recording data relating to said communication, computing charges for said communication, charging said charges in real time, and returning to step (a); and (q) monitoring said telephone instrument to detect when said calling party hangs up and, when said calling party hangs up, returning to step (a).

12. A method according to claim 10, further comprising steps of:
(i) transmitting a verbal message to said calling party for requesting from the calling party a response concerning language of operation: and (ii) detecting a touch tone response from said calling party concerning the language of operation and setting said verbal message generator accordingly.