DE102004039697B3 - Secure communication system between two partners incorporates method for displaying messages and has control circuit with authentification device and transmission link may be produced - Google Patents

Abstract

The secure communication system (5), preferably using the Internet, joins first (A) and second (B) communication partners. Each communication partner has a terminal (10.1,10.2) in contact via an intercommunication window (11). There is a double window (14) with data transmission choice circuits (17.1,17.2). There is a communication network (9) between the two partners. The choice circuits are connected to data stores (15.1a-15.2) incorporates method for displaying messages and has control circuit with authentification device and transmission link may be produced. The secure communication system includes a control circuit (20).

Description

The The invention relates to a communication system for communication between at least two communication partners. In particular, the Invention a communication system for communication between each two communication partners over Any communication networks, in particular via the Internet, by means of computers and an executable thereon Software for controlling communication between these partners. There will be a direct and secure communication between each two partners using and integrating different media and communication types, in particular synchronous communication, such as. Instant messaging, with asynchronous communication, e.g. Email, provided. Securing the communication causes u. a. the exclusion of disturbing influences by intruders (hackers), spam and the like.

Under The term communication is generally used here to refer to any kind of Message or information exchange between contacts, i. between persons or institutions, understood. To communication between two people, it is known that the first person (sender) the second person (recipient) over at least a contact address, such as his / her special telephone number, his special e-mail address, etc. contacted to send a message to convey or establish a communication. Under this contact address however, the second person is also of any number of other persons to reach out. So anyone who can operate a phone, dial the special phone number or anyone who can send e-mails, an e-mail to the specific e-mail Send address. In this way also get a lot of unwanted news and information to the recipient, which then has to filter or ward off. How phone line owners receive calls the unwanted advertisement Third parties are, or holders of e-mail accounts so-called spam e-mail, not desired by the addressee become. Despite the often very high safety expenditure can be a protection against unwanted Communication not completely achieved become. Desirable would it be, to achieve completely secure protection against unwanted communication.

Desirable would it be also, a direct and only between two Contact partners carried out Communication, that is a direct and exclusive communication, too achieve synchronous and asynchronous communication with each other merge.

In US 2004/0070608 A1 discloses an apparatus and a method for transmitting of files between a plurality of computers in a virtual Network described. This device and this method allow the optional transmission files between specific computers in a virtual network. The computers have a VNRS program on which it allows a computer to display the desktop of another computer next to his own is. Although the two computers are not physically connected are, it is possible that files from the first computer to the second computer and vice versa by just dragging and dropping be transferred from one desk to another.

task The present invention is therefore a communication system or to provide a method of communication in which the disadvantages of the prior art can be avoided.

The Task is solved by a communication system for communication between a first Communication partner and a second communication partner that the following components comprises: a communication network, preferably the internet, a first device the first communication partner comprising a first communication application, a second terminal of the second communication partner comprising a second communication application, a control device, a first data memory for storage first data of the first communication partner, a second data memory for storing second data of the second communication partner, being over the communication applications and the controller at Need immediately available exclusive connection in the communication network to the exclusive Communication between the first and the second

communication partner can be produced, wherein the individual communication partner a first selection of the first data and a second selection of the second Data about the communication application is displayed and made available will, and that provided a communication element that is necessary for communication between the two communication partners over the Communication applications is activated.

The communication system is a communication environment consisting of the above-mentioned various components executed in hardware and / or software. Preferably, the communication system comprises terminals such as computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), telephones, WAP phones, networks, servers, storage, and communications applications, such as communications programs, especially clients, for telephony, voice-over-IP (VoIP), instant messaging, email, etc. which are so fused together that the boundaries of synchronous and asynchronous communication and between different communication media vanish for users of the system. Communications within the meaning of the invention include any type of transmission of data in general, in particular multimedia data, such as text (documents, e-mails, memos, etc.), video (image, photo, film, etc.), audio (voice, sound, music, etc .).

The Communication partners can Persons or institutions that use their terminals to communicate to communicate with each other. These may be private individuals or to trade companies and the like.

One Communication network is a network that communicates with the communication partners for communication transmission to disposal stands. This may be, in particular, the Internet as a network or even a mobile network, an ISDN network, a general IP-based network or a combination thereof.

The are terminals used by the communication partners prefers computers, mobile communication devices or PDAs on which a communication application can expire. Particularly preferably, these terminals have a Connection to the communication network, such as an Internet connection. Most preferably, this internet connection is a permanent one Connection or an immediately available connection if required. On this terminals can Different applications preferably run in parallel, so that the terminals not exclusive to the communication application of the present invention are used have to.

The Communication application is preferably a software that of the Communication partners are started and used on his terminal can. This communication application is preferably a program with the exchange of files, messages, status signaling such as the presence of the other communication partner or the presence of new messages can. Particularly preferred is the communication application via a Icon or graphical symbol on the user interface, i. preferably the electronic desktop, on the terminal of the communication partner shown. By activating this icon data can be transmitted on the one hand or by status signaling and animation of this icon the presence of those provided by the other communication partner Files are signaled.

A Control device is preferably provided for the communication to coordinate between the two communication applications and on the one hand, the corresponding connection path between the two Building communication partners and on the other hand to provide the content that in the communication between the two communication partners needed and released by the individual communication partners were. Preferably, the controller also the authentication of the two communication partners. Especially preferred is the controller on a dedicated server on the Internet set up, which can access memory contents, the for the connection or the contents of the communication between the communication partners required become. About that In addition, it is advantageous if the control device and the management the connection on the Internet takes over, in particular also the secure transmission and / or encoding supported.

It First data stores are provided in which data for the first Communication partners are stored, just as there are memory areas, in which files of the second communication partner are stored. These memories can be present locally on the computer, on further storage media be present externally or be set up on storage media, which are themselves centrally accessible on the Internet. Every combination it is possible so that storage areas are partly local to each user and are partly set up externally and / or centrally. These memory areas contain the data of the individual communication partners such as their files, presentations, image files, MP3 files, text files, etc. In addition, these files preferably also include address and contact information to the individual communication partners.

The communication application builds on demand via the control device then an immediately available exclusive connection between the two communication partners. The single communication application is therefore able to establish a connection to a specific other communication partner, so that the connection between these two communication partners is an exclusive connection. Since there is no public address that could be used by anyone for this connection between the two communication partners, the communication partner can also use this communication application not be contacted by a third party, but only by the once defined communication partner. In this way, only a communication via the first and the second communication partner can be established via the exclusive connection in the communication network.

For this special exclusive connection between the two communication partners Both the first partner and the second partner have the opportunity to to make a selection of their data that the other communication partner to disposal be put. So it is possible, for example, that the first partner for communication with the second partner special music files from his files selects the second partner then in this exclusive connection to disposal be put. In addition, you can here also other files like pictures, text, films, presentations, etc. includes. In this way it is possible that in the exclusive Connection of both communication partners displays all documents and available ever in their communication so far Role played. The one from the first partner for the second partner to disposal provided files are preferably retrievable from the second partner, but not changeable. The first partner, on the other hand, can choose his choice of him in the Change the communication connection provided files and additional Add files. Also he can do that earlier to disposal Delete files that have been deleted. The second communication partner can mirror this from his Page out also with his selection for the first communication partner. Thus, the selected files the other communication partner displayed and simultaneously made available, i.e. provided for download or to open the document by the each other communication partner. These are the choices the data and files preferably on a system-managed Website available put or at least for the communication partners are displayed.

Farther is a communication element for communication between them provided to both communication partners via the two communication partners can spontaneously communicate with each other. Such a communication element could, for example a whiteboard into which both write in (at the same time) can and one communication partner sees (immediately) what the other one is entering data. In addition to the pure text input, it is just as possible over this Communication element to spontaneously transmit drawings and sketches Copy pictures, play movies, etc. This Communication element is thus just about the communication application the two communication partners can be activated.

By this communication system is provided a possibility that the two communication partners directly and exclusively with each other to be able to communicate, without either of them being unwanted News about gets this communication system delivered. It is thus a secured point-to-point communication. So there's the communication only between the two partners takes place and no third party on this Communication channel can communicate, it is excluded that unwanted advertising and spam over this communication system reaches one of the communication partners. About that In addition, a communication system is provided that is very elegant and, to an unknown extent, both files and preferably records of any provides communication between the two partners and simultaneously having a communication element over which the partners can communicate with each other. With this novel Communication system is thus an exclusive and disturbing influences of third parties free communication between the two communication partners ensured. At the same time, about the provision of Data and preferably also from historical information via contacts in the past an application provided with the more direct and can be communicated more comprehensively than with conventional ones Communication applications such as e-mail, fax, chat, Instant messaging, etc.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, the control device comprises an authentication device. Preference can thereby over the controller not only the data management or the Building the connection to be controlled on the Internet, but also the Authentication be made that the request through the Communication application of one partner is also genuine and this one indeed is entitled to contact the other partner. The authentication device may preferably be on the server be provided to the controller and a software application include; It can also be locally on the terminals of the communication partners be furnished.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is provided in the communication system that the selections of the data are stored in an intermediate store. This ensures that the selection of data, the individual communication partner exclusively to the wants to make available to others, in a buffer for this standby and thus include a subset of the entire data of the communication partner. Due to the fact that the data is in the cache, this data can be accessed by the other communication partner even if the other communication partner is not online.

The Control device can then the other communication partner especially for display and provide him with a prepared selection of data, independently of whether the individual communication partner is online. To this Thus, the data is thus provided via a buffer, the buffer. The respective other communication partner is determined by its application indicated that new data or messages are in the buffers updated, which he can then retrieve. Besides that is making it easier that the control unit precisely addresses the area that is in the exclusive connection to the other partner indicated shall be.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the communication element is at least one of the two Communication partners simultaneously usable interaction window. This interaction window is preferably on the system managed web site and can be accessed through browsers. Through the simultaneously usable interaction window as a communication element is it for the communication partners possible, to make inputs in a window together, such as text input, draw, display images, render links, etc., so that an interactive communication can take place. Parallel is it possible about this Communication element a voice connection between the two Make communication partners, for example via PSTN phones or equivalent Switchboards or directly via the computer as a voice-over-IP connection. So it is possible for the communication partners, with each other to speak and in parallel drawings in an interaction window to adjust while explaining on the phone. That the interaction window is shared is called not that it is necessarily used by both at the same time must, i. that a synchronous communication must take place. Also Asynchronous communication is possible. That's the way it is, for example also possible, that a communication partner in the interaction window a drawing created while recording a voice message. Of the other communication partners who are not online at this time was, can later call the message and view it as a stream, i. that he is Track the appearance of the image in the real time recorded at that time can, while he at the same time the explanations in the voice message of the communication partner can listen. But then he can intervene again and make his own interim remarks both as a voice message or as a data entry in the interaction window then turn the other communication partner to the disposal be put.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the individual communication partner the first selection of the first Data and the second selection of the second data via the communication application as an alias, especially as a symbol, wildcard or pointer to the data stored in the memories, displayed and made available becomes. This ensures that when opening the communication applications not all the data that the individual communication partners available have to be uploaded in full, but that only an alias or pointer is present, which the individual files. Such a pointer could be one graphic symbol combined with a text, for example indicates that it is a corresponding image file, or a corresponding MP3 song is hereby designated. If the single communication partner then open such a file he wants to or wants to download his area, he can talk about activation Download this alias the entire file. If the communication partner claim a file only within this communication would like to, he can also drag the pointer into his area (via drag & drop) and thus to add to his selection - it is then only required that this pointer is copied and not the whole underlying file. Optionally, but also the entire file will be loaded. In this way is one memory optimized management of displayed and deployed Content or data between the communication partners possible.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is provided in the communication system that a double window can be represented by the communication application for interaction with the respective other communication partner, wherein a first predetermined selection of the first data on one side and a second predetermined selection of the second Data is displayed and made available on a second page of the double window. In this way, a particularly preferred form of presentation has been chosen for the individual files provided. That too Double window is preferably made available on the website in order to be able to be used via browser. With the display of the window, for example, the selection of the data of the first communication partner can be displayed in the left half, while those of the second communication partner are displayed in the right half. Thus, it is individually possible for each individual communication partner to have his own selection of files made available to him by the other communication partner, for example on the left side, while those provided by the other communication partner are provided on the right side Files would be displayed. Through such a representation in double windows, a very clear representation of the contents and the origin of the contents in the communication is achieved. The double window is preferably integrated together with the aforementioned interaction window in a communication page of the website. This allows double windows and interaction windows to be operated and used simultaneously. In particular, window-spanning drag-and-drop functions are possible.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the exclusive connection in the communication network is an encrypted connection is. Such encryption the connection increases once again the security of the communication between the two communication partners. This may preferably be a 1024-bit encryption act.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that over the communication application has a history of the connection between the Communication partners is displayed. So it will be an overview of the past communication already occurred. Over here is it possible the two communication partners at a glance, what connection they had with each other and what files were exchanged. Here can also be summarized, which Telephone calls between the two were made, which voice messages, which text messages, etc. when were exchanged.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the communication element for real-time or near real-time communication between the two communication partners via the communication applications is activatable. In case both communication partners are online and started the communication application, it is through possible, in near real time with each other the communication element, especially the interaction window, to communicate. So can a telephone connection via the communication application be built and both communication partners talk to each other while they are simultaneously draw into an interaction window together or write in it. Parallel can they access or access each other's data but also every new data for both provide, which so far only for the one communication partner were available. This can preferably also be done via "drag-and-drop", i.e. by click on a file, hold on, drag to the interaction window and let go. Through these near-real-time communications, only by delays because of the network can not take place absolutely simultaneously a nearly synchronous and interactive communication between the Communication partners are realized.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the communication applications via at least one graphical Symbol are activated. Particularly preferred are the communication applications via icons activated. These icons can preferably defined by the user himself and provide him with a thought support for with which communication partner he uses this communication application has to do. So it is possible, for example, stylized symbols (such as a smiley) for to use the individual partners as well as photos of the faces this communication partner. Preferably, the icons are animated, in order to signal the respective communication partner states that the Specify the current status of the other communication partner, in particular the status, whether he is online or whether he is currently not disturbed would like to and more. For this purpose, several illustrations for such icons deposited, then for the different signaling states can be used. So is it possible, for example, a laughing face for select a communication partner and a second animated one Illustration with a waving hand or a third representation with eyes closed. The moment a message the other communication partner should be signaled, then would the waving hand will be shown while in the event that the another is not online, the icon with the eyes closed can be represented. In this way it is possible over the corresponding icons also non-verbal communication with the other To operate communication partners.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it is provided in the communication system that the graphical symbol is stored on the user interface of the terminal is. By placing the icon on the user interface, ie in particular the desktop on the computer, the communication partner is always present and in view. By an appropriate choice of the size of the icons can then be ensured that in a certain range, the individual communication partners are constantly visible and thus signaling of messages about this can be achieved particularly advantageous.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the communication applications by moving a cursor over the graphic symbol are activated. That's the way it is possible, by moving the cursor on the icon to start a function (mouse-over function). When the mouse is over the Icon is located prefers pop-up menus unfold in which the user then individual functionalities of the Select communication application can or recognize a special status. That's the way it is, for example possible that the user through the pop-up menu the possibility a notification or a call to the communication partner receives or you can see how many messages of the communication partner wait for him, etc. It is also possible the communication application by starting directly and then prefers the double window and the interaction window and possibly also the historical window to get displayed.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the graphical symbols are exclusive for connecting to a special communication partner can be used. By the exclusive use of a graphical symbol for a specific communication partner This also ensures that there is no confusion can come. If for a special communication partner uses an individual icon becomes the assignability of the transmitted signaling easier possible.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the communication applications manage several graphical symbols deploy in parallel. Through the joint management of several Communication applications and thus multiple individual connections to individual communication partners it is just with a larger number advantageous for individual communication applications or icons, Maintain these in a central administration application. A such parent Communication application may then prefer further contact information include. In addition to the administration of the communication applications according to the invention is it possible then conventional Manage contact data and manage it as well and, if necessary, on conventional Way - too to contact.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the second communication partner is a group of individuals includes. Through this form of grouping of multiple communication applications for many individual communication partner, it is possible the entire group in to integrate the communication. Now if on this group communication application A message is sent to each member of that group on his corresponding group communication application this message reachable. Nevertheless, this group is completely completed. Just like the individual contact only through An approval of both communication partners can be established can, the group is only activated if each one Group member agrees to be in this group and have news about this to be able to exchange.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that the communication applications allow the transmission of files and the triggering the transmission a file from the first communication partner to the second communication partner by moving a file symbol by means of an input medium, especially through a drag and drop by means of a computer mouse, on a graphic symbol of communication application he follows. By this kind of transmission or provision of files, it is possible, for example, that the first communication partner a file, which he the second communication partner to disposal just pull on the icon of this second communication partner and then over Drag-and-drop lets go. This file is then automatically the second communication partner, preferably in the double window half with the files provided by the first communication partner, displayed. In this way it is very easy to share files with each other exchange or communicate. This is not least of all possible, that the dial-up of the established exclusive communication links sufficiently defined between the two communication partners is that no further information, such as a E-mail address or similar needed be to the transfer or providing the files.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is in the communication system provided that the drag-and-drop on the graphic symbol of communication applications
if a URL starts a real-time website sharing, if a file initiates an upload to the communication partner;
For a folder / directory the communication partner provides access rights to this folder.

In a further embodiment of the present invention is provided in the communication system, that by the communication application before triggering the transmission of a File a dialog window opened will, over that for the sending communication partner additional data for transmission with the file added are. Preferably, in the transmission files by drag-and-drop on the icon also optionally open a dialog box in which still a companion message for the appropriate communication partner can be entered. This makes it very elegant possible even to annotate individual files and to the To send communication partners. Such input can be as text be done or as a short voice note, which then as Voice file transmitted becomes.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, it is provided in the communication system that the communication applications (enable communication between the first and the second communication partner by means of a plurality of different media, in particular the communication applications enable one, several or all of the following types of communication:
Text, voice, in particular telephone, VoIP, streaming, in particular real-time audio or video transmission, data transfer, in particular of image, text, music, video data, file sharing, instant messaging, chat, email, fax, etc. By the possibility It is possible to use these individual media alternatively or even cumulatively via the communication application via a variety of different media. So it is possible in the simplest case that a text input into the interaction window and thus text messages can be exchanged. However, it is just as possible to set up a telephone connection via Voice-over-IP or PSTN network to the other communication partner by appropriate selection of the functionality "telephone." For this purpose, these functionalities can also be selected in the communication application - either via mouse-over functionality or Pressing a button within the displayed double window, etc. In parallel to this, graphics can also be created or existing pictures can be displayed and the movement of the mouse within the picture can be synchronously recorded in parallel to the voice message he displays a picture in the interaction window, explains it linguistically in parallel and shows with movements with the mouse what he is talking about, just as it is possible that a pen option of the mouse annotates annotations into the picture file It is possible to make the individual files available to one another in order to achieve a file sharing. Particularly preferably, it is also possible to make available by releasing a directory, a whole group of files at a time, which can then access the communication partner. It is also possible to provide the communication partner entire windows on their own local desk, so that, for example, a browser application can be started by the first communication partner, which allows the second communication partner, just this window on the local desks of the first communication partner also He can then talk about a voice-over-IP connection with the second communication partner and can also explain the content of the browser page by the mouse position also transmitted. In addition, it is also possible to send the other communication partner messages in a conventional manner, such as e-mails, faxes, etc. As a rule, this transfer will take place within the communication application itself, so that no need for sending an e-mail to the communication partner B through the A when using the communication application. On the contrary, it is the case that the address maintenance of the contact data of the other communication partner no longer has to be carried out by oneself, but the care of the contact addresses is only required for the own contact addresses. Thus, it is not important to the user of the communication application according to the invention whether the other communication partner has an e-mail or a fax - he only communicates via the communication application, which could then redirect such messages in a known manner to other terminals according to the specifications of the communication partner B. , Should the communication partner B change his communication data because he has, for example, a new telephone number or a new fax connection, the communication application between A and B would keep this data automatically updated and thus use the new data for future connections. An exclusive data maintenance by the other communication partner is therefore no longer necessary.

The object is further achieved by a method for transmitting data between ei a first communication partner and a second communication partner comprising the following steps:
Drag-and-drop of a communication content, in particular a file to be transmitted by the communication partner to a graphical symbol;
Starting a communication application of the communication partner;
Transmission of the communication content via an exclusive connection that is immediately available on demand between the first communication partner and the second communication partner;
Signaling to the communication partner that a communication content was provided by the communication partner.

In a further embodiment The present invention provides a method wherein the Signaling to the communication partner is done by that a graphic symbol on the user interface of the communication partner is animated.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided, further comprising the step:
Verification of user identity by an authentication device.

Prefers the installation of an exclusive connection according to the invention between two takes place Communication partners about that the first communication partner is the second communication partner invites, to establish with him such a communication connection (Communication by invitation). For this the inviting communication partner sends preferably a conventional one E-mail to the desired, invited communication partner and offers to him by one Mouse click the corresponding communication application with the graphic Install icon on his desk (Com.Bot). The invited Communication partner accepts this invitation by using the communication application installs or starts and confirms this. In the control device or the server center is then recognized that established this connection has been. This communication connection between the two communication partners in the form of their communication application is then registered or authenticated and can for the future will be used exclusively between these two parties. It is also possible, that another (third) person is building an exclusive communication between two communication partners makes sense and therefore both the first and the second communication partner a corresponding Provide information, so that they can build such a connection with each other (Communication by Invitation from third party). So it is possible, for example, that the third person both the first and the second communication partner Each e-mail sends a link through which the communication application can be installed, so that they only between the two invited communication partners an appropriate connection can build up. The third person himself is not a communication partner within this communication link - he just initiated it.

in the The core in the present invention is preferably that two people over a dedicated communication channel are interconnected and over this once established and authenticated channel with each other to be able to communicate. Both people have an application on their machine that gives them preferably indicates the status or the presence of the counterpart and for Any short-term communication with this person is available. Preferably, the user has an icon on his desk or graphic icon (Combot) on which he can drag files to this directly to his communication partner. That's exactly how he could do this Double-click icon and would then a double window opened get in on the one hand his own data and the History of the communication with the communication partner listed and on the other hand a selection box for communication exists with this partner (buttons for telephoning, message writing fields, etc.). The special this is that in this type of communication is not on E-mail program, a fax program, etc. is resorted to but these Communication application the complete communication between the allows both communication partners. For example, it is possible To transfer documents directly, Send messages (similar E-Mail), to call (Voice over IP or telephone connection over PSTN network), files offer for exchange, etc. In the case of the existence of a communication structure or a request - i. if a message has been sent to the communication partner - starts to signal the icon that a message has arrived, or sent a file was, etc. The communication partner on the other side is then be able to recognize that message arrived at him.

Although the communication is initiated by the local client and this is also the program that the two communication partners use exclusively - technically it is preferably realized so that this application with the data or services you offer to a server center (Living Contact ), on which, on the one hand, the data may lie, a trust center is operated, which is responsible for the authentication records, other resources can be offered, such as the connection to make calls, Voice-over-IP, etc. The data of the communication partner A can both be on the corresponding server of Living Contact as well as on his cell phone or on the PC. In the "double window" then the different aliases of the respective files displayed in each case are displayed. While the first communication partner gets information on himself and other information about the second communication partner displayed on his double-page page, which the user has shared with him, on the double page created by the second communication partner data about himself will be displayed, which he has put together and on the other Page via the first communication partner Data that this (first) communication partner has released for the second communication partner. The communication in this communication channel (Wormhole) preferably takes place with a very high encryption (4096-bit encryption) and thus represents one of the safest communication channels ever.

Besides that is it is preferable to provide several contacts to a corresponding one Group of contacts, i. to organize them as a group. These pooled contacts will then be sent as a group. In such a group can So several individual contacts are summarized. Thus is from It is possible for a first contact partner to communicate with the group, i. a point-to-multipoint communication. If now the contact group offered to other contacts, these do not have to all in the individual grouped contacts themselves once again but can use the entire contact as a group. This will make many steps for the individual user saved - by the simple sending of the group becomes thus the construction and the Acceleration accelerates. Furthermore, it is a psychological advantage to see in it that the collecting drive of the individual to the completion the group leads and thus more data is provided in the overall system.

One Another advantage is seen in the fact that this makes a special Sorting aid for Documents is created between the communication partners were exchanged. This is generated by the history of the groups. For example, you can get a document that way in which one either knows which contact group or also to which single contact from the group you are looking for Sent a document and / or when and / or on which occasion (for example in which project) the document was used, etc. By Correlation of search criteria you can quickly find the document you are looking for. A special organization of document management, in particular a file and directory hierarchy is not needed. Thereby an automatic self-organization of documents takes place.

Furthermore become action suggested how the very secure form of communication even more secure can be made by the communication partner on his Memory areas passwords for different ones Additions on the internet (keychain function) and these passwords for his activities available on the internet stand.

A first option to increase Security is a program that sets the passwords to the appropriate Pages periodically changes itself without that the user (contact partner) has to do this himself. So is it is possible that the passwords for example, changed once a day be and for that Applications, such as Amazon account, ebay account, etc., always new Passwords available. The user himself has to pass these passwords do not know, because he automatically log in on this Keychain Function can serve.

A another possibility to increase the security is that a memory stick (Memory Stick) as a digital socket (Dongle) is used and in the system requires authentication, which was previously written on such a memory stick. So is it only possible, that system is active in the internet over Use the passwords if the dongle is in one with the system connected terminal, especially Internet access terminal, is plugged.

It will also suggested that this dongle be plugged in and thus a Communication application starts, in particular requesting a combo, and then at all only once again opened a communication channel. The user could then act accordingly by entering his own password. In addition, can then according to the principle described above "Communication by Invitation" also in such a case a corresponding invitation directly to the desired communication partner be shipped.

Thereby it is also possible that the single internet site through which connect with can be initiated to the invited communication partner, has no fixed address outside the System is visible. That way, even a hacker can not come to the appropriate website and enter the system.

The Invention will now be exemplified in the following figures. The figures show:

1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a communication system according to the present invention;

2 shows a schematic view of the user interface of a communication application in a communication system according to the invention;

3 shows in part pictures 3a and 3b schematically the mouse-over functionality;

4 shows in part pictures 4a to 4c schematically the drag-and-drop functionality of the communication application of the communication system according to the invention.

5a shows one to 1 simplified representation of a contact connection in the form of a two-point contact connection, in which the method according to the invention is used and in which the contacts are represented on the desktop by so-called ComBots;

5b shows representations of further contact connections, in particular multipoint contact connections, in which the inventive method is used and in which contacts are represented on the desktop by so-called ComBots;

6 shows a representation of a grouping of ComBots as so-called GroupComBots;

7 shows a representation of a system architecture for the management of contacts by means of the inventive method with the involvement of ComBots and / or GroupComBots.

In 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention. A terminal 30.1 of the first communication partner A includes a local communication application 10.1 , The terminal 30.1 is a computer with internet access via a broadband DSL connection. This is the access to the communication network 9 ie the internet is possible. Exactly the same is a terminal device 30.2 of the second communication partner B with a communication application 10.2 shown. Also this terminal 30.2 is a computer and has access to the Internet. The communication partners A and B can thus by means of on their devices 30.1 respectively. 30.2 ongoing communication applications with each other via the Internet 9 , which exemplifies different communication networks, communicate with each other. In this case, by means of a control device described in more detail and associated memory 15.1a to 15.1c and 15.2 communicates directly and securely, these memories are preferably used as a data buffer.

The control device 20 has access to the memory 15.1a . 15.1b and 15.1c such as 15.2 , The memories contain communication data and files which the communication partners exchange with each other or at least provide to the other partner. The concrete storage location can be distributed over any storage media and over different locations. For example, the memory is located 15.1a on a server, the memory 15.1b is a memory on the PDA (personal digital assistant) of the first communication partner A and the memory 15.1c is the local store on his computer 30.1 , The memory 15.2 is a storage area on a server that is accessible via the Internet. Between the local communication applications 10.1 and 10.2 is shown schematically as a graphical user interface with areas for the selection of data 17.1 and 17.2 in a double window 14 is shown. Furthermore, this control panel comprises a communication element 11 as an interaction window. These components, the function of which will be described in more detail below, are essentially realized on a website accessible to both communication partners, whereby each communication partner can also observe the communication with the other via a browser and support it.

If a communication to the second communication partner B is now initiated by the first communication partner A, the local communication application is used 10.1 on the computer 30.1 the first communication partner A starting a request to the controller 20 sent to release the connection from A to B. The control device 20 authenticates the connection from A to B by checking that both partners are registered or authenticated and that this exclusive connection can be made. The controller then selects the selection of the first communication partner A, ie the data, files and / or data area predetermined by him in the memories 15.1a and 15.1b and 15.1c off, in the left double window half 17.1 should be displayed. Likewise, the data, files and data area selected by the second communication partner B become in memory 15.2 in the right double window half 17.2 represented as data for the communication partner B. In that area 17.1 are there any data that the Communication partner A the communication partner B provides and in the field 17.2 the data that communication partner B makes available to communication partner A in this exclusive connection. In these double window halves 17.1 . 17.2 It prefers only aliases appearing on the actual data in the stores 15 refer.

In this way, starting from the first communication partner A, the system has now been able to set up a communication channel (wormhole) to the communication partner B, whereby the partners on the website have the double window 14 and a communication element 11 is offered as an input and control element. The communication partner A can now exclusively with the communication partner B via the corresponding local communication application 10.1 respectively. 10.2 communicate and exchange data and vice versa.

In 2 is a schematic view of the double window 14 and the communication element 11 shown. Via the communication applications (communication programs) running on the terminals of the communication partners A and B, the partners A and B have access to several operating windows in which a double window 14 with left and right section 17.1 respectively. 17.2 as well as a communication element in the form of an interaction window 11 is provided. In the double window 14 is in a left area 17.1 the first selection of data 17.1 represented the communication partner A. These are, for example, a text file "A-doc.doc" as well as a music file "song # 1.mp3". In the right area 17.2 is the second selection of data 17.2 of the second communication partner B shown. Here is a text file "B-doc.doc", so each partner has an overview of his data selection, which he makes available to the other partner and about the data selection, which he gets provided by the other partner.

B can now choose whether to view the data provided by A or to transfer it to his area. The arrow I shows that B now has the option of dragging and dropping the file "song # 1.mp3" into its data selection area, for example 17.2 over tighten. In this case, the song is copied over to the area of B and B is immediately available in its own area. Alternatively, the communication partner B can also go and the documents from area A of 17.1 directly on his own desktop or the hard drive, which will download them and be available to him directly locally in the future. Preferably, the icons or the individual in the windows 17.1 and 17.2 just one pointer or alias file, without having to upload the entire file to be displayed in the window. For example, at the moment when the second communication partner B decides to copy the file "song # 1.mp3" to his domain or his local machine, a download would then be used to provide him with the entire file can be distinguished, whether he has the file only in his area 17.2 - in this case it is sufficient if only one alias is displayed there as well. In the event that B decides to load the file to his local hard drive, a download of the corresponding file from the underlying data storage would be done 15 (not shown) done on the local hard disk of B. Similarly, it is possible for A files to be in the 17.2 provided by the second communication partner B, down-copied into its area or on its own local hard disk, this is represented by the arrow II.

In the interaction window 11 Both partners can make entries in any form (text, figures, pictures, etc.). For example, a cylinder and a star have been entered as drawing elements. In addition, a line has been drawn by a mouse cursor and a text message "... and this is how it works ..." has been entered 11 In other words, it serves interactive communication in a form in which synchronous and asynchronous forms of communication merge into one another. This means that it is no longer necessary to differentiate conventionally between an asynchronous form of communication, such as e-mail, and a synchronous form of communication, such as chat. In particular, no independent software applications, ie email client and chat client, must be used, but all forms of communication preferably pass through this one interaction window 11 ,

So it's in the interaction window 11 for A and for B it is possible to make inputs that the other communication partner can see immediately. It is thus possible, for example, to enter shapes such as the cylinders or stars shown by way of example, or to add comments to existing images by means of lines or other markings. It is also possible to write messages into this window via text input or to leave voice messages for the interaction window via peripheral devices such as the microphone. The fact that particularly preferably the two communication partners A and B can intervene simultaneously in the interaction window and leave messages, they can communicate in this way in real time with each other. Particularly preferably, a parallel speech connection can be established via a corresponding function, so that In addition to the visual possibilities in the interaction window, voice messages can also be transmitted in parallel. Particularly preferred may be via this interaction window 11 also a video image of the other communication partner be faded in, so that a corresponding video communication is also possible.

In the event that one of the communication partners is not online, it is possible to record a message in the interaction window with explanations that the other communication partner can then view sequentially step by step and in this way, for example, both a video image and the emergence a drawing with the corresponding voice messages in parallel can retrieve. It is also possible from the fields 17.1 . 17.2 Drag and drop files into the interaction window 11 to then communicate with these files in real time or buffered with each other. For example, it is possible for the communication partner B to insert the document B-doc.doc, which is, for example, a draft text of B, into the interaction window 11 pulls, opens there and explains with a voice message why he has certain passages in this document at certain points. For the communication partner A, this is then easily comprehensible, since it is led step by step through the document (draft text of B) and prefers even to listen to voice messages and comments in parallel. In addition, it is possible that B also makes color markings in the document and they are the A also displayed in their creation in streaming time sequentially.

In 3 schematically the functionality of the mouse-over function for the operation of the local communication application via a graphical symbol (Combot) is shown. The communication partner B is shown on the desktop of the communication partner A as a graphic symbol, here a laughing face. In 3a It is shown how the input means mouse of the communication partner A is brought to the left below the combo, which represents the communication partner B, in FIG 3b Now you can see that the mouse is over the graphic symbol 40 of the communication partner B has been performed and a pop-up menu has been activated, from which now the communication partner A can select different functionalities presented to him the local communication application. It is thus possible, for example, to leave a text message via the "post-it" entry, to set up a telephone connection to the communication partner B by selecting the "call" item, or to determine via the menu item "status" which additional attributes with regard to this Communication link is currently present (presence of the other, waiting messages, etc.) It is also possible, via the menu item "Content" to open the double window and the corresponding files to view and the menu item "Info" historical data regarding the past communication with In this way, a very simple and elegant way to set up communication via the local communication application and the corresponding graphical symbol has been provided.

In 4 shows in three steps how the drag-and-drop functionality can be used in an embodiment of the present invention. In 4a It can be seen that the communication partner A pulls by clicking on a corresponding document in the direction of the graphic symbol representing the communication partner B. In 4b shows how this file icon is now drawn with the mouse on the graphic symbol of the communication partner B and released. In 4c is the animated reaction of the graphical symbol that "swallowed" the document and the transmission of this document to communication partner B by the speech bubble "thanks!" signaled. In this way, it is possible to provide a file to the other communication partner (here eg the B) or to convey it by transferring the file into the exclusive connection application by simple drag-and-drop. In this case, the file is preferably in the double window and B viewable and retrievable. Optionally, it would be possible for communication partner A, who pulls and releases the document on the combo, additionally to offer a communication window in which he can write in an additional message or leave a voice message, which further delineates communication partner B with the transmitted file give.

The 5 to 7 illustrate further applications of the invention, in which contacts for communication of any kind (email, SMS, telephony, instant messaging, FileSharing ...) with each other permanently or at least quasi-permanently in contact, with special graphical elements (the above ComBots) on the desktop of the computer (desktop) show the current state of the respective contact partner and where several of these elements in groups (the above-mentioned GroupComBots) can be summarized. The contacts mentioned above are the users of the system, ie the persons or institutions previously also known as communication partners.

First, the shows 5a in schematic representation an existing contact connection between the first user A and the second user B. The 5a corresponds to an alternative and simplified representation of the 1 to explain even closer the function of the double window from the user's point of view. Thus, in the following the representation of the interaction window is omitted.

Shown in the 5a is the respective desktop DTA from the user A or DTB from the user B and the respective graphical element in the form of a ComBot, which represents the contact with the other user. Thus one finds on the desktop DTA the ComBot for the user B and vice versa. Both users are in a system to be described later (cf. 7 ), so that the users are constantly in contact with each other and are to be regarded as contact partners, who may want to spontaneously communicate with each other. This connection is thus a quasi-permanent contact connection, which serves as a preliminary stage for the spontaneous establishment of one or several communication links. For this purpose, the respective ComBot displays the current status (status) of the contact partner by means of a graphical change, animation or comparable measures. For example, ComBot B on user A's desktop DTA changes color as soon as user B is online.

The ComBots are not only status indicators, but also direct access to the contact partner to send him messages and / or files of any kind. For example, by simply dragging and dropping on the desktop, user A may send user B a document, such as a text file, image file, or entire directories, or at least grant him access to these files. To do this, user A pulls the symbol for the file onto ComBot B located on the desktop DTA. The files and directories exchanged and / or shared among the users appear on a system-managed common website TCW, preferably within a double window. The double window essentially has two subareas, each of which is assigned to one of the two users. Thus, all the associated files and directories appear in the subarea of user A, and the associated files and directories also appear in the subarea of user B. This is exemplified by the 5a shown. In addition, many other data and information are provided and managed on the TCW website, in particular the contact data (names, addresses, e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, etc.) itself and communication data (date, time, history, type of communication, name of the exchanged files etc.). Thus, the TCW website particularly serves to manage and conduct communication between contacts. The website TCW is therefore also referred to as a telecommunications website.

The Operation of the shown ComBots as well as the use of the website TCW is done very easily by drag and drop operations on the respective User interface, i.e. on the personal desktop and / or in the double window represented by the browser.

If, for example, the user A wants to transmit a directory with MP3 audio files to the user B, A merely needs to drag and drop the icon of the directory onto the ComBot B of the other user on his desktop DTA and drop it. Thus, the system will automatically provide this directory on the TCW website for the user B and inform the user B by animating the ComBot A on the desktop DTB. In the opposite direction, a transfer of directories and / or files in the same way, ie by simple drag and drop. This is indicated by the arrows in 5a illustrated.

The TCW website shows within the double window which files and directories have been provided by which user for use by the other user. The physical storage locations may be centrally located on a server of the system or they may also be located remotely on the respective computers and terminals of the users or on other external computers. By clicking on the respective ComBot or by accessing the TCW website, which can be reached at a specific URL, users can obtain information about the current state of affairs and take over individual or multiple files as well as entire directories as they wish. This means, for example, that the user B moves by dragging and dropping on the web page of the website TCW a file located there in the subarea of the user A into its subarea B. Alternatively, or additionally, a download of this file or a copy thereof from the TCW to the computer of user B can be done automatically. The functionalities will be described later on the basis of 7 described in more detail.

As the 5a As illustrated, the method and system of the invention is adapted to establish a quasi-permanent contact connection between users (contact partners) via a dedicated website TCW and to display the current status on the desktops of the computers and / or the displays of users' terminals as well as direct access to the respective contact partner by means of graphical elements, the so-called ComBots.

Just like the 5b illustrates In the simple case, there is a two-point connection between two contact partners via their ComBots COMA and COMB. But there are also multi-point connections of any kind conceivable, such as a fan-shaped point-to-multipoint connection from a ComBot COMA to several ComBots COMB1, COMB2 ... COMBn. Or star-shaped multipoint connections are made between a variety of ComBots COM1, COM2, COM3 ... COMn. In the case of multipoint connections, a ComBot (eg COMA or COM1-COMn) can each represent a large number of contacts, ie a group of contacts.

Based on 6 will now be explained in more detail how grouping can be done by simply dragging and dropping ComBots: If there are already two or more ComBots for individual contacts, such as B and C, on the user's desktop DTA, the user can drag and drop a ComBot (eg ComBot B) on the other (ComBot C) form a so-called GroupComBot GRP. This GroupComBot GRP then represents the contacts (here B and C), ie it corresponds to a contact group. By further Drag & Drop, the GroupComBot GRP can be extended at any time, such as another contact D. Thus, instead of many individual ComBots appears on the desktop of the user only one icon, namely the GroupComBot GRP. With a simple double-click or similar measures, the GroupComBot GRP is broken down again into the individual ComBots (here in B, C and D).

The Combine multiple contacts into a group in the form of GroupComBots provides a much improved overview on the desktop and raised thus the ease of use for the user. Furthermore the group formation is very flexible, allowing the user in any Fashion GroupComBots can make. He can be a single one ComBot, e.g. associated with a work colleague and friend, also integrate into several GroupComBots, such as in one for "work colleagues" and one for "friends". Also, the user can several GroupComBots in turn to GroupComBots. For example Can he make the two GroupComBots "workmates" and "friends" into a GroupComBot "My Birthday Party ", because he's all his workmates and friends for his next birthday party would like to invite. Any kind of group formation according to any criteria is conceivable, such as people (contacts), time, event, and / or project formed GroupComBots. By the method according to the invention, the grouping also done by itself, in which the system automatically virtual GroupComBots and proposes this to the user.

Based on 7 The system and the system will now be described in more detail. The system LC is based on the Internet and essentially comprises one or more servers that manage contact data from a plurality of users for possible communication as well as the provision of user data. In the 7 the system LC is represented symbolically. In addition, two users A and B are shown by way of example, as well as a website TCW provided by the system to the users. The system LC provides each user with a memory area (eg MEM-A for the user A). This memory area is located, for example, on the drive of the LC server or on an associated data storage medium. In addition to the system-internal memory areas MEM-A and MEM-B, the users can also use system-external memory, in particular the drives HD-A or HD-B of their computer PC or their terminals PDA, to any files and / or directories for other users (contacts) to provide.

If e.g. two users A and B over the system LC are in contact with each other, then it is on the desktops of their computer PC and / or PDA devices respectively a graphical element in the form of a so-called ComBot, the direct Access to the respective contact partner. So user A has the ComBot B on his desktop DTA. User B is just the opposite the case. For both users A and B, the system LC provides a website TCW with a Double window in which all data collected by the system LC, in particular the contact details of the two users A and B and the ones provided by them User data, can be displayed. About these Website TCW and easy to use, especially by drag & drop operation, can they Users on their own data and shared by the contact partner Access data from any Internet access at any time. Once a user receives his contact information (such as his or her address, Phone number or email address) changes this is detected by the system LC and an automatic synchronization conducted with the contact partners, So that all contact partners always have the latest current status of the contact data to have. about The ComBots can make changes and updates are displayed immediately.

The ComBots are also used for direct contact by a user (here A) the ComBot of the desired contact (here B) clicks and then from a then appearing communication menu an application, such as email, telephony (PSTN and / or VoIP) or SMS starts. Immediately the communication with the contact partner is started. The system LC supports the user, in which it only the possible or even preferred communication methods, such as email or sms, suggests. It takes into account the user profiles and user-defined requirements managed by the system itself.

As well can by simple drag and drop a prompt spontaneous communication. For example, user A pulls a WORD file on the ComBot B of its contact partner B, then converted the LC system converts this file into a PDF format and merges the PDF file as an attachment with a notification email to the user B.

In another example, that in the 7 is illustrated, the user A pulls on the ComBot B an MP3 file (symbolized by a star), which is currently on the hard disk HD-A of the computer PC of the user A. At the same time, the system LC starts an upload by transferring this MP3 file into the system-internal memory area MEM-A of the user A and displaying this on the website TCW. The user B now receives an indication that A provides him with a file. For this purpose, the LC system animates the ComBot A on the desktop DTB of the user B, whereby the ComBot B eg receives a speech bubble with the message "MP3 from A for you".

Of the User B can then surf the TCW website right away and get up there its own memory area (right side of the double window) and also access the memory area (left side) released by A. Either user B leaves the MP3 file (see star) there in the memory area of the A or the User B initiates a transfer the file in its memory area. He can do this by dragging and dropping the file icon, so here by pulling the star from left to right, execute (see Arrow). Immediately, the system LC controls a corresponding file transfer from the hard disk HD-A to a memory area specified by user B, here on the HD-B hard disk, which is in the terminal of user B, here in the mobile staff Digital Assistant PDA, located. The file transfer takes place via a Two-point connection in the form of a peer-to-peer transmission p2p. Many other Applications are conceivable. The system LC stands out especially by making it all possible Communication techniques for Contacts spontaneous and with simple desktop-optimized usability usable, whereby the contact data are automatically updated.

The functions described on the basis of two individual contacts and their ComBots can also be applied to contact groups in the form of GroupComBots. As already in the 6 is shown, these GroupComBots correspond to any combination of individual ComBots and / or smaller GroupComBots.

With The present invention provides a communication system. with exclusive in a very comprehensive and very safe way be communicated to a special further communication partner can, without both communication partners by third in the Communication disturbed could become and unwanted messages Third in their communication application would have to find. Especially the combination of providing documents and files on the one hand and an interactive window for quasi-synchronous and simultaneous Use by the communication partners on the other hand allows the comprehensive and comfortable exclusive communication between the two communication partners.

A

first communication partner

B

second communication partner

5

Communication system / Equipment

9

Communication network

10

local communication application

11

communication element (Interaction window)

14

double window

15

data storage

16

dates

17

selection the data

20

control device

21

authentication device (central

Communication application) Statistics,

Memory management, Function Management,

management tool

30

terminal

31

Medium, communications medium

40

graphic Icon (Com.Bot)

Claims (26)

Communication system ( 5 ) for communication between a first communication partner (A) and a second communication partner (B) comprising: a communication network ( 9 ); a first terminal ( 30.1 ) of the first communication partner (A) comprising a first communication application ( 10.1 ) for execution by the first terminal ( 30.1 ); a second terminal ( 30.2 ) of the second communication partner (B), comprising a second communication application ( 10.2 ) for execution by the second terminal ( 30.2 ); a control device ( 20 ); a first data store ( 15.1 ) for storing first data ( 17.1 ) of the first communication partner (A); a second data store ( 15.2 ) for storing second data ( 17.2 ) of the second communication partner (B), whereby via the communication applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) and the control device ( 20 ) an immediately available connection in the communication network ( 9 ) can be produced for the exclusive communication between the first and the second communication partner (A, B), wherein the individual communication partner (A, B) has a first selection of the first data (A, B) 17.1 ) and a second selection of the second data ( 17.2 ) via the communication application ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) is displayed and provided, and wherein a communication element ( 11 ) provided for communication between the two communication partners (A, B) via the communication applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) is activatable, wherein the communication element ( 11 ) at least one interaction window that can be used simultaneously by both communication partners (A, B) ( 11 ). Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 1, wherein the control device ( 20 ) comprises an authentication device. Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the selections of the data ( 17.1 . 17.2 ) are stored on a buffer. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first selection of the first data ( 17.1 ) and the second selection of the second data ( 17.2 ) via the communication application ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) as an alias, the one in the stores ( 15.1 . 15.2 ) stored data ( 16.1 . 16.2 ) is represented, displayed and made available. The communication system of claim 4, wherein the alias is a symbol, a wildcard, or a pointer. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication application ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) the single communication partner (A) to interact with the other communication partner (B) a double window ( 14 ), wherein a first predetermined selection of the first data ( 17.1 ) on one side and a second predetermined selection of the second data ( 17.2 ) on a second side of the double window ( 14 ) is displayed and made available. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection in the communication network ( 9 ) is a secure connection. Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 7, wherein the connection is encrypted. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a history of the connection between the communication partners (A, B) can be displayed via the communication application. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication element ( 11 ) for real-time or near-real-time communication between the two communication partners (A, B) via the communication applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) is activated. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) each with a graphic symbol ( 40 ) are activated. Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 11, characterized in that the respective graphic symbol ( 40 ) on the user interface of the respective terminal ( 30.1 . 30.2 ) is stored. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the communication applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) by moving a cursor over the graphic symbol ( 40 ) are activated. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the graphical symbols ( 40 ) can be used exclusively for establishing a connection with a special communication partner. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the communication applications provide the management of a plurality of graphical symbols in parallel. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication partner (B) comprises a group of individuals. Communication system ( 5 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the communications applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) enable the transfer of files and the triggering of the transfer of a file from the first communication partner (A) to the second communication partner (B) by moving a file symbol by means of an input medium to a graphical symbol ( 40 ) of the communication application ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) he follows. Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 17, wherein the moving of the file symbol by dragging and dropping by means of a computer mouse ligbar is. Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 11, wherein drag and drop onto the graphic symbol ( 40 ) of the communication applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) when moving a URL, a realtime website sharing starts, when moving a file, an upload to the communication partner initiated; when moving a folder / directory gives the communication partner access rights to this folder / directory. Communication system ( 5 ) according to one of claims 17 or 18, wherein the communication application ( 10.1 ) before the transmission of a file is triggered, a dialog box is opened via which additional data for the sending communication partner (A) can be added for transmission with the file. Communication system ( 5 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the communications applications ( 10.1 . 10.2 ) a communication between the first and the second communication partner (A, B) by means of a plurality of different media ( 31 ) enable. Communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 21, wherein the communication applications enable one, several or all of the following types of communication: text, voice, in particular telephone, VoIP, streaming, in particular real time audio or video transmission, data transfer, in particular of image, text, music, video data , File sharing, instant messaging, chat, email and / or fax. Method for transmitting data between a first communication partner (A) and a second communication partner (B) comprising the following steps: providing the communication system ( 5 ) according to claim 1; Drag-and-drop of a communication content by the first communication partner (A) to a graphical symbol ( 40 ); Starting the communication application ( 10.1 ) of the first communication partner (A); Transmission of the communication content via the immediately available if necessary connection between the first communication partner (A) and the second communication partner (B); and signaling to the second communication partner (B) that the communication content has been provided by the first communication partner (A). The method of claim 23, wherein the communication content one to be transferred File is. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein the signaling to the second communication partner (B) takes place in that a graphical symbol ( 40 ) is animated on the user interface of the second communication partner (B). Method according to one of the preceding method claims, further comprising the step of checking the user identity by an authentication device ( 20 ).