EP1611736A1

EP1611736A1 - Arrangement served by operator to establish connections between users

Info

Publication number: EP1611736A1
Application number: EP04723438A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Anders Sören ÖMAN
Original assignee: Trio AB
Current assignee: EMBLACOM AB
Priority date: 2003-03-25
Filing date: 2004-03-25
Publication date: 2006-01-04
Also published as: SE0300922D0; SE0300922L; WO2004086739A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a telephonist-manned telecommunications-related arrangement that includes a mobile telecommunications system (2) that includes those means and devices required for PBX-functions (3) for a number of chosen mobile telephone extension apparatus (T1), and further comprising a fixed telecommunications system (1), wherein a private branch exchange (5) that includes a number of chosen fixed extension telephone apparatus (T2, T3) is co-ordinated with said fixed telecommunications system, wherein the telephonist (6a) has at his/her disposal a control panel (6) that includes a display unit or display surface, and wherein an incoming call can be converted to or connected as an outgoing call to a chosen telephone extension apparatus through the medium of said control panel, and wherein the telephonist also has access to a speech channel, The telephonist-allocated control panel (6) is adapted to establish an information transfer mode with the aid of two disparate connections (46, 56), i.e. one connection (46) related to said PBX-function (3) in the mobile telecommunications system, and one connection (56) related to the private branch exchange (5) in the fixed telecommunications system (1); and in that the control panel (6) includes circuits and memories (3') and/or has access to circuits and memories, containing, inter alia, information disclosing whether an extension telephone apparatus (T1, T2) is related to the PBX-function (3) of the mobile telecommunications system or to the private branch exchange (5) of the fixed telecommunications system.

Description

TITLE OF THE PATENT APPLICATION:

Arrangement served by operator to establish connections between users

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a telephonist manned arrangement and more particularly to a telephonist manned telecommunications system that includes the use of a mobile telephone communications system together with associated mobile telephone apparatus, wherein said mobile telecommunications system includes those devices and circuits required to enable the achievement of PBX-functions with respect to a number of chosen mobile extension apparatus.

In this system, a telephonist has control over a control panel, hereinafter designated a telephonist-allocated "mobile" extension unit, described more specifically in Figure 3.

The invention also utilises a fixed telecommunications system with associated fixed telephone apparatus, wherein a PBX is co-ordinated with said fixed telecommunications system through the agency of a number of chosen extension apparatus wherein the telephonist has control over a control panel that in- eludes a display unit or display surface, hereinafter designated telephonist- allocated "fixed" extension unit, which is illustrated in and described more specifically with reference to Figure 2. The invention is also based on giving the telephonist used access to a connectable speech channel adapted for speech communication.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Methods and arrangements of the aforesaid kind are known to the art in a number of different forms.

For example, it can be mentioned that in the case of a mobile telecommunications system that includes PBX-functions, it is known to allow a telephonist to dispose over a first control panel which includes a display unit or display surface, so as to be able to convert or connect, via said panel, an incoming call to an outgoing call that can be connected to a chosen mobile extension apparatus.

This telephonist has at her/his disposal a "mobile" extension unit or control panel through the agency of which it is possible to establish a call and to connect-up speech communication.

In the case of a fixed telecommunications system that includes a co-ordinated PBX-system, it is known to allow a telephonist to have disposal over a second control panel that includes a display unit or display surface, so as to enable an incoming call to be redirected to an outgoing call via said second control panel, said call being connectable to a chosen fixed extension apparatus.

The telephonist has at his/her disposal a "fixed" extension unit or control panel via which he/she is able to establish a call and connect-up speech communication.

Figure 2 illustrates earlier known, classic intermediation of calls and speech channels with the aid of a private branch exchange (PBX) co-ordinated within the public switched telephone network or fixed network (PSTN). Figure 3 illustrates known and classic mediation of calls and speech channels with the aid of a private branch exchange function 3 related to the public land mobile network (PLMN).

Both of the aforesaid telecommunications systems include a telephonist that has an associated first or an associated second system-adapted control panel.

Thus, it is known to allow one and the same telephonist to serve both of these two control panels adapted and related to two different systems at one and the same time, and therewith mediate between calls and speech channels via said separate control panels, each within its own separate telecommunications system.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION TECHNICAL PROBLEMS

When taking into consideration the technical deliberations that a person skilled in this particular art must make in order to provide a solution to one or more technical problems that he/she encounters, it will be seen that on the one hand it is necessary initially to realise the measures and/or the sequence of measures that must be undertaken to this end, and on the other hand to realise which means is/are required in order to solve one or more of said problems. On this basis, it will be evident that the technical problems listed below are highly relevant to the development of the present invention.

When considering the earlier standpoint of techniques, as described above, it will be seen that a technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by enabling the two different system-related mobile and fixed control panels to be readily combined and coordinated such as to enable the physical construction of one and the same control panel unit that is able to serve both PBX-related functions within the mobile telecommunications system and a PBX within the fixed telecommunications system when these two separate telecommunications systems are connected together in a known manner. A technical problem also resides in adapting and structuring one and the same control panel unit or control panel so as to enable simple signal-related and/or speech-related communication to be obtained between said two completely different telecommunications systems, so that signals related, inter alia, to the PBX function in respect of the mobile telecommunications system and signals related, inter alia, to the PBX in respect of the fixed telecommunications system can be received, structured and processed via software and/or circuit arrangements within one and the same control panel.

A technical problem also resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by creating conditions which enable one and the same telephonist to readily serve said two different telecommunications systems separately through the agency of one and the same control panel, among other things by creating conditions whereby a display unit or display surface will present a system-significant indication of each occurring call and the like incoming to the control panel.

A technical problem also resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by adapting the co-ordinated control panel for co- action with said mutually separate telecommunications systems via two separate connections, partly a first connection related to said PAX-function within the mobile telecommunications system and partly a second connection related to the PBX within the fixed telecommunications system.

A technical problem also resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by providing in said co-ordinated control panel and/or making readily available in said control panel access to circuits and memories containing all requisite information relating to whether or not a extension- related call or the like is related to the PBX-function of the mobile telecommu- nications system or to the PBX of the fixed telecommunications system.

It will also be seen that a technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing an information transferring first connection of the co-ordinated control panel with the mobile telecommunications system to be established via a first interface, and to allow the information transferring second connection to the PBX to be established via a second interface.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages associated with allowing each information transfer from the mobile telecommunications system to the control panel to be presented on the display surface together with a system-significant indication.

Another technical problem also resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing each transfer of information from the PBX and the fixed telecommunications system to the control panel to be presented on said display surface together with a system-significant indication.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by using PBX-associated means and/or circuits for facilitating co-ordination of each incoming call and speech channel to the telephonist control panel regardless of whether these calls originate from telephone apparatus co-ordinated with the mobile or the fixed telecommuni- cations system.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages associated with allowing said telephonist to be allocated one single control unit that applies to both systems and that includes PBX-co- ordinated speech equipment, and to establish therewith speech contact with calling and/or called subscribers and/or extensions related to mobile telephone apparatus in the mobile telecommunications system and/or fixed telephone apparatus within the fixed network and/or the subscriber exchange.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages associated with allowing one or more telephonists each in possession of a co-ordinated control panel to be connected in the same manner as that disclosed in the introductory passages with respect to both telecommunications systems. Yet another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing each of the telephonists to be allocated solely that information contained in the database of a control unit for the mobile telecommunications system that is involved directly with the company that the telephonist concerned is entrusted to serve.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing a number of telephonists connected to both telecommunications systems in the aforesaid manner to be dispersed geographically, where one or more of said number of telephonists is able to serve one or more companies.

It will also be seen that a technical problem is one of realising the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing the PBX-function within the mobile telecommunications system to be located centrally, and therewith enabling said function to readily serve geographically dispersed telephonists, where one or more said telephonists may be related to one or more companies connected for utilising said PBX-function.

Another technical problem resides in the ability of truly realising the significance of and the advantages afforded by connecting the co-ordinated control panel of said telephonist to the mobile telecommunications system via said first connection, and via a data network, such as the "Internet", and via a security function.

It will also be seen that a technical problem resides in the ability to send and to receive, via said first connection, information carrying signals for controlling and confirming PBX-functions within the mobile telecommunications system in order to expedite calls and speech channels within both the mobile and the fixed telecommunications systems.

It will also be seen that a technical problem resides in sending and receiving, via said second connection, information carrying signals for controlling and confirming PBX-functions within the fixed telecommunications system, in order to expedite calls and speech channels in both the fixed and the mobile telecommunications systems while using a speech channel to the private branch exchange and a co-ordinator allocated to said exchange.

When a calling party indicates, via the speech channel, that she/he wishes to establish speech contact with another extension number, a problem exists in realising the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing the telephonist to fetch the extension number concerned from a control unit database included in the mobile telecommunications system, where other information relating to extension telephone apparatus is also stored, such as extension information belonging to the mobile or the fixed telecommunications system or network.

In respect of a call connected to the control panel of said telephonist under the influence of the PBX-function and via a connection established to and from the private branch exchange, a technical problem will be seen to exist in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages associated with allowing information to be sent from the control panel to the control unit with respect to the call or the speech channel concerned, partly with respect to the extension number to which the call was originally intended to be connected, and partly with respect to information concerning the identity of the telephonist who expedited the call in the event of a recall being implemented for some reason or another, whereafter the control unit is allowed to order a coupling unit belonging to the mobile telecommunications system and integrated with the PBX-function to establish an outgoing call to the sought extension number.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by including in the control unit a time-monitoring circuit which, when no reply has been obtained from a telephone apparatus or a telephone extension apparatus within a given period of time, functions to switch the call back to the telephonist via the PBX-function of the mobile network and said private branch exchange, wherewith the telephonist is informed on his/her monitor or screen on the control panel of the identity of said call and other data, e.g. the sought extension number.

In the event of a caller delivering a speech message concerning a desire to be connected lo another mobile or fixed telephone extension number, there arises the problem of realising the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing the telephonist to find the extension number concerned readily in the control unit database and to activate a new call and allow a new connection to be made via the control panel, by virtue of the control unit being informed, via the data network, lo order the coupling unit to release the connection currently established with the telephonist and, instead, to establish a connection with the now chosen telephone extension.

When an attempt to connect a calling party to a mobile extension number has been unsuccessful and said party wishes to be connected to an extension number behind or in relation to the private branch exchange, a technical problem is one of realising the significance of and the advantages afforded by adapting the PBX-function of the mobile telecommunications system to retain full control over the call and speech channel, even when said call and speech channel is connected to an indicated extension number via a direct selection function belonging to the private branch exchange.

A technical problem also resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by allowing each call to a group telephone number or to a main telephone number of the private branch exchange to be redirected within the fixed telecommunications network, such as to connect the same to a coupling or switching unit co-ordinated with the PBX-function.

Another technical problem resides in the ability to realise the significance of and the advantages afforded by adapting a control unit with database coordinated with the PBX-function to provide a line or queue handling facility and/or a load distributing facility between connected and utilised (in service) telephonists. SOLUTION

The present invention takes as its starting point the known technology descrie- bed in the introduction, where a telephonist-manned telecommunications-related arrangement shall include access to a mobile telecommunications system that includes mobile telephone apparatus, and where said mobile telecommunications system includes those means and circuits required to obtain PBX- functions for a number of chosen mobile telephone extension apparatus, and also access to a fixed telecommunications system that includes fixed telephone apparatus, and where a private branch exchange that includes a number of chosen telephone extension apparatus is co-ordinated with said fixed telecommunications system, wherein said telephonist has disposal over a control panel or corresponding device.

The control panel shall include a display unit (monitor) or display surface for presenting to the telephonist requisite information related to each of the telephone extension apparatus connected to the PBX-function or to the PBX, wherewith an incoming system-associated call can be oversteered to an outgoing call via said control panel and thus directed to a chosen extension apparatus.

The telephonist shall also have access to a speech channel adapted and connectable for speech communication, said speech channel being connectable between the private branch exchange and the headset of the telephonist.

With the intention of solving one or more of the aforesaid technical problems, it is particularly proposed in accordance with the present invention that the known technology is supplemented by enabling one and the same telephonist- associated control panel to establish an information related mode with the aid of two disparate connections, i.e. a first connection related to said PBX- function in the mobile telecommunications system, and a second connection related to said private branch exchange within the fixed telecommunications system, and that circuits and memories are included in the control panel and/or are made available to said panel, wherein said memories contain, inter alia, information indicating whether an extension telephone apparatus is related to the PBX-function of the mobile telecommunications system or to the PBX of the fixed telecommunications system.

By way of proposed embodiments that lie within the framework of the basic concept of the present invention, it is proposed that the first panel connection to the mobile telecommunications system shall be effected and/or established via a first interface; and in that the panel connection to the private branch exchange shall be effected and/or established via a second interface.

In this regard, it is proposed in accordance with the invention that information related to a telephone extension apparatus transferred from the mobile telecommunications system is presented on the display surface of the control panel with an indication significant to said system.

The transfer of information from the private branch exchange and the fixed telecommunications system shall be presented on said display surface with an indication that is significant to said system.

The telephonist is thus allocated a control panel, which is valid for both systems and which includes a separate unit or separate equipment for establishing speech contact via the private branch exchange within the fixed or the mobile telecommunications system.

One or more telephonists equipped with an associated control panel may be connected to both systems in the aforedescribed manner.

It is also proposed that each telephonist is allocated solely information contained in a control unit database related to the mobile telecommunications system that directly concerns the chosen company or companies that rely on the services of the telephonist.

A number of telephonists connected to both systems may beneficially be dispersed geographically and function to serve one or more companies regardless of their chosen geographical locations, wherein the control panel allocated to said telephonist is connected to the mobile telecommunications system via a data network, such as the Internet and a security function, and to the private branch exchange via first and second lines wherein said telephonist is able to receive and expedite calls and speech channels within the mobile telecommunications system and within the fixed telecommunications system or network via established connections.

When a calling party informs a telephonist that he/she wishes to obtain speech contact with some other telephone extension, the inventive arrangement en- ables the telephonist to fetch the relevant extension number from the control unit database included in the mobile telecommunications system, said database also including stored information, for example whether an extension number belongs to the mobile telecommunications network or to the fixed telecommunications network.

In the case of a call coupled to the PBX-function via a data network and via a selected connection, information is sent from the control panel to the control unit concerning the extension number to which the call or speech channel was originally intended for connection, and information concerning the identity of the telephonist that expedited the call in the event of a recall for some reason or another, whereafter the control unit orders activation of the coupling or switching unit and an outgoing call is made to the sought telephone extension number.

It is also proposed in accordance with the invention that the control unit includes a time monitoring circuit, which, in the absence of an answer from the telephone apparatus over a given time period, causes the call to be switched back to the telephonist via the PBX-function of the mobile network, wherein the telephonist is informed on the screen of his/her control panel of the identity of the call and also other data, such as the sought telephone extension.

When the calling party wishes to be connected to another mobile extension number, the telephonist shall be able to find the extension number concerned in the control unit database, via the control panel, wherewith a new connection can be made by virtue of the control unit being informed, via the data network, to order the coupling unit to release the connection with the telephonist and, instead, to establish a connection to another chosen extension number.

When a calling party wishes to be connected to an extension number behind or related to the private branch exchange after an unsuccessful attempt to connect with a mobile extension number, the PBX-function of the mobile telecommunications system retains control over the call and connects the call to the extension number via the direct selection function via the private branch exchange.

Each call to a group number or principal number of the private branch exchange can be oversteered within the fixed telecommunications network, so that said call is connected to a coupling unit co-ordinated with the PBX-function.

A control unit which includes a database and which is co-ordinated with the PBX-function may be adapted for line or queue management and/or load distribution between connected and utilised telephonists.

ADVANTAGES

Those advantages primarily related to the present invention and its particular significant properties or characteristics reside in the creation of conditions which greatly simplify the efficiency with which a telephonist carries out his/her services with respect to calls and speech channels incoming from PBX-functi- ons and structured within a mobile telecommunications system, and also calls and speech channels incoming from a public branch exchange within a fixed telecommunications system.

In addition, the invention enables a telephonist to mediate between calls and speech channels within said two telecommunications systems to be effected through the agency of an allocated control panel, where a line or queue order can be co-ordinated from said two telecommunications systems to the telephonists in circuits allocated to the public branch exchange and co-ordinated with the fixed telecommunications system. The primary characteristic features of an inventive telephonist-manned telecommunications-related arrangement are set forth in the characterising clause of the accompanying Claim 1.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS An embodiment of the invention at present preferred and comprising characteristic features significant of the present invention will now be described in more detail by way of example with regard to the inventive co-action between a mobile telecommunications system and a fixed telecommunications system while using one single telephonist-allocated control panel, and also with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which;

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an inventive arrangement in which a mobile telecommunications system that includes a PBX-function is functionally co-ordinated with a fixed telecommunications system that includes an associ- ated private branch exchange (PBX), and a telephonist-manned control panel adapted for both systems;

Figure 2 illustrates the principles of known intermediation of calls and speech channels via a telephonist-manned private branch exchange co-ordinated with a fixed telecommunications system;

Figure 3 illustrates the principles of known intermediation of calls and speech channels via a telephonist-manned PBX-function co-ordinated with and included in a mobile telecommunications system;

Figures 4 - 8 illustrate the principles related to an inventive telephonist- manned telecommunications-related arrangement according to the invention, in which a call and/or speech channel arrives at the telephonist and associated control panel via a private branch exchange, and where said call and speech channel shall be connectable to a mobile telephone extension apparatus with the aid of a coupling unit with associated control unit and database included in the mobile telecommunications network;

Figures 9 - 11 illustrate the principles applicable when a call and/or speech channel arriving at the telephonist and his/her control panel via the mobile PBX-function shall be connected to an extension number related to the private branch exchange;

Figure 12 illustrates an example of the consequences of so-called multi- trombonation in the inventive arrangement;

Figure 13 is a highly schematic illustration of a control panel associated coupling device related to a known control panel according to Figure 2 or according to Figure 3;

Figure 14 is a highly schematic illustration of a control panel associated coupling device related to a control panel that functions in accordance with the directives of the present invention;

Figure 15 illustrates a coupling occasion where a public branch exchange is used solely as a transmission medium; and

Figure 16 illustrates an alternative coupling sequence in an arrangement according to the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS AT PRESENT PREFERRED

It is pointed out initially that we have chosen to use in the following description of embodiments at present preferred and including significant characteristic features of the invention illustrated in the figures of the accompanying drawings special terms and terminology primarily with the intention of illustrating the inventive concept more clearly. However, it will be noted that the expressions chosen here shall not be seen as limited solely to the chosen terms used in the description, but that each term chosen shall be interpreted as also including all technical equivalents that function in the same or at least in essentially the same way so as to achieve essentially the same intention and/or technical effect.

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of the basic principles of an arrangement according to the present invention where the significant properties of the invention have been concretised generally by means of a proposed embo- diment described hereinafter in more detail, and with reference to a number of chosen coupling occasions and situations illustrated in certain figures of the accompanying drawings.

Thus, Figure 1 illustrates generally in more detail a system description of a telephonist-manned telecommunications-related arrangement "A".

As illustrated in Figure 1 , a telephonist-manned, telecommunications-related arrangement "A", significant of the present invention, includes a mobile telecommunications system or network (PLMN) that includes mobile telephone apparatus (not shown), wherein said mobile telecommunications system 2 also includes the means/devices required to enable achievement of PBX- functions 3 in respect of a number of chosen mobile telephone extension apparatus (here represented by the telephone apparatus T1 for the sake of simplicity).

There is also required a so called fixed telecommunications system 1 (PSTN) with associated fixed telephone apparatus (here represented by the telephone apparatus T2 for the sake of simplicity), wherein a private branch exchange 5 (PBX) is co-ordinated with said fixed telecommunications system 1 through the agency of a number of selected telephone extension apparatus (here represented by the telephone apparatus T3 for the sake of simplicity).

The telephonist 6a or each telephonist 6a' and 6a" has at his/their disposal an allocated telephone extension unit or control panel 6, that includes a display unit or display surface 61 , for activating and redirecting each incoming call via said control panel 6 when requiring an outgoing call to a chosen mobile telephone extension, or an outgoing call to a chosen fixed telephone extension apparatus, as illustrated in more detail hereinafter.

According to the present invention, the mobile telecommunications system 2 (PLMN) and the fixed telecommunications system 1 (PSTN) are functionally co-ordinated via an interconnect function, as illustrated in more detail hereinafter.

According to the directives associated with the present invention, a mobile extension telephone unit (61 in Figure 3) related to the mobile telecommunications system and a fixed telephone extension unit (60 in Figure 2) related to the fixed telecommunications system and its public branch exchange shall be co-ordinated and integrated in one single extension unit, where three of these are shown and allocated reference signs or numerals 6, 6' and 6".

Thus, each telephonist-manned control panel is, in accordance with the invention, adapted for co-action with two disparate connections, i.e. a first connec- tion 46 intended for the control panel 6 and related to said PBX-function 3 in the mobile telecommunications system 2 (PLMN), and a second connection 56 related to the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) in the fixed telecommunications system 1 (PSTN).

The same applies to each telephonist 6a' and 6a" and to his/her associated control panel 6' and 6".

The control panel 6 includes and/or has access to circuits and memories 3' that include, inter alia, information as to whether an extension telephone appa- ratus T1 is related to the PBX-function 3 of the mobile telecommunications system 2 or to an extension telephone apparatus T3 related to the private branch exchange 5 of the fixed telecommunications system. The apparatus T2 may also be coupled to the private branch exchange 5 as an extension apparatus.

The connection 46 to the mobile telecommunications system 2 (PLMN) and co-ordinated with the control panel 6 is coupled via a first interface, and the connection 56 to the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) co-ordinated with the control panel 6 is coupled via a second interface.

Figure 1 now enables a clarification to be made of an inventive significant co- ordination between vital switching or coupling functions within a fixed telecommunications network or telecommunications system 1 (PSTN), a mobile telecommunications network 2 (PLMN), a PBX-function 3 related to the mobile telecommunications network 2, a private branch exchange 5 related to the fixed telecommunications network 1 , and one or more telephonists 6a, 6a' and 6a" and their associated control panels here referenced 6, 6' and 6".

Each telephonist, such as the telephonist 6a, together with his/her control panel, such as the control panel 6, has been allocated access solely to information included in the control unit database 3' that concerns the company or companies that the telephonist 6a is intended to serve.

The telephonists 6, 6a' and 6" and their respective control panels 6, 6^', 6^" may be dispersed geographically relative to one another and one or more thereof may serve one or more companies.

Certain of these telephonists 6, 6a' and 6a" may thus be placed in a service office where they manage so-called "overflow" traffic from one or more highly trafficked companies or in the absence of a regular telephonist.

These latter telephonists may then have access to information in the control unit database 3' concerning several companies. The PBX-function 3 is, in principle, comprised of a control unit, a database 3' related thereto, a coupling or switching unit 3" and a communications module 3'".

The control unit database 3' contains, inter alia, an address book that includes telephone numbers and other intercept functions, among other things.

The communications module 3'" also includes, among other things, security functions that enable safe information carrying communication to be achieved over a public IP network 4, here illustrated as the "Internet".

The telephonist 6a and the control panel 6 are connected to the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) via said connection 56 and a speech channel 56', and to the control unit and database 3' of the PBX-function 3 via said security functi- on incorporated in the communications module 3'" and said IP network 4, e.g. said Internet, via given connections referenced 46 and 34.

Through the medium of their respective headphones, intercept receivers, and control panel 6, the telephonist 6a is able to receive and expedite calls and speech channels in both the fixed telecommunications network or system 1 and the mobile telecommunications network or system 2, through the agency of said connections 46, 56 and 56'.

For the purpose of illustration, the line extending in Figure 1 between the control panel 6 and the private branch exchange 5 has been referenced 56 in respect of an established signal channel and has been referenced 56' in respect of an established speech channel.

This distinction has not been included in respect of other lines solely by way of simplification, since the functions of established connections and channels will be obvious to the person of normal skill in this art.

The private branch exchange 5 (PBX) has been allocated a coupling or signal channel and a speech channel to the fixed telecommunications system 1 (PSTN) via a connection 15 and/or to the mobile telecommunications system 2 via a connection 52.

The fixed and the mobile telecommunications systems 1 , 2 (PSTN, PLMN) are ) mutually connected via an interconnect function related to and illustrated as a connection referenced 12.

The known technology relating to the illustrated two telecommunications system 1 and 2 will not therefore be described in detail.

A deeper insight into certain possibilities afforded by said systems are described in more detail in International Patent Application PCT/SE02/02119, the total content of which shall be considered as forming part of the instant patent application.

Two embodiments related to the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to Figure 1.

The first embodiment is based on the use of regular line functions, speech channels and the headset of the telephonist 6a of the private branch exchange 5.

In this regard, when the PBX-function 3 shall connect a call and a speech channel to a telephonist 6a, the call and speech channel are connected to the private branch exchange 5 via the lines 23' and 52, or via lines 23', 12 and 15, wherewith the exchange 5 couples a signal channel 56 to the control panel 6 and a speech channel 56' to the telephonist 6a via their allocated line functions.

The exchange 5 is able to co-ordinate incoming speech channels within its regular speech channel queue to each of the telephonists 6a, 6a' and 6a". As illustrated in Figure 1 , an exchange-associated first number pool 5b and a PBX-function associated second number pool 3b are both activated in the case of the illustrated embodiment.

The PBX-function 3 is able to connect a speech channel to the telephone apparatus T1 belonging to the mobile network, and in certain special cases also to the telephone apparatus T3 belonging to the private branch exchange, as described hereinafter.

In a second embodiment of the invention, line handling and speech-channel monitoring are effected solely in the PBX-function 3.

In this case, the private branch exchange 5 is used solely as a transmission medium, via telephone extension lines.

Neither are telephonist functions including said number pool 5b and related to the private branch exchange 5 used.

The telephonist speech channel 56' may be directed to any extension number whatsoever (a fixed extension number related to the private branch exchange 5 or a mobile extension number) although not the speech channel belonging to the control unit 6.

When the PBX-function 3 shall connect a call or a speech channel to a tele- phonist 6a, a ring signal is sent to the extension number or apparatus belonging to the telephonist 6a.

The framed part of Figure 2 illustrates the principles of known intermediation of calls and speech channels in a private branch exchange 5 (PBX).

There is assumed here a coupling occasion in which a telephone apparatus T2 belonging to the fixed telecommunications network 1 (PSTN) or to the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) activates an attempt to call and ring, via direct selection, the extension-related telephone apparatus T3 that constitutes an extension apparatus fixedly connected to the private branch exchange 5.

The call is connected initially in the fixed telephone network 1 (PSTN) and to the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) in a known manner, and then forwarded directly to the telephone apparatus T3.

Should the telephone apparatus T3 fail to answer, the call is switched to the telephonist 60a and his/her fixed control panel 60 by the private branch exchange 5 in a known manner, whereupon the telephonist answers the call via an established speech channel.

If it is desired to connect the telephone apparatus T2 to another extension number, the telephonist 60a switches the call to another telephone apparatus via the control panel 60 and via the private branch exchange 5 in a known manner.

Extension number information, division authority, etc., can be fetched from an intercept function 5c stored in a database (not shown) in the private branch exchange 5.

In this case, the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) will deal fully with and activate functions, such as recalls, line engaged notations, line or queue management, and so on in a known manner.

The framed part of Figure 3 illustrates the principles of known mediation of calls and speech channels in the mobile communications network 2 (PLMN), with an associated PBX-function 3.

Analogously with Figure 2, a call or speech channel from the telephone apparatus T2 in the fixed telecommunications system or network 1 is connected to a mobile telephone apparatus T1 via a PBX-function 3 in the manner illustrated and described in more detail in the aforesaid International Patent application. In this case, the speech channel is "tromboned" in a coupling or switching unit 3", so as to enable a control unit with associated database 3' to retain control of the speech channel to the telephone apparatus T1 related to the mobile extension.

The telephonist 61a has at his/her disposal in this case a mobile extension unit (61a) and a control panel or display unit 61.

With a renewed reference to Figure 1 , Figure 4 illustrates those conditions that can be provided in accordance with the directives of the present invention when a call or a speech channel from a subscriber T2 arrives via the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) and which shall be connected by telephonist 6a and control panel 6 to a requested mobile extension telephone apparatus referen- ced TL

It shall be assumed in Figure 4 that a call or speech channel arrives from the apparatus T2 and the telephonist 6a via the private branch exchange 5 (PBX) and that this call may be a direct call to an exchange number or a call to an extension number related to the private branch exchange and which is redirected to the telephonist 6a in the absence of a reply.

The telephonist 6a is notified on the monitor or display surface 66 whether the call concerned has arrived via the main number of the telephone exchange or whether the call has been redirected, the extension to which the call was originally made, and information fetched from the control unit database 3' in the case of recorded failure of the original extension number to answer.

If the calling or ringing party T2 wishes to come into contact with an extension number T1 related to the mobile telecommunications system, the telephonist 6a fetches extension number (T1) from the control unit database 3', where information as to whether the extension belongs to the mobile telecommunications system or network 2 or to the fixed telecommunications system or network 1 is also stored. As the extension T1 requested belongs to the mobile telecommunications network 2, the call and the speech channel shall be connected to this network, which may be effected via the control panel 6 and either via connections 15 and 12 to the extension apparatus T1 or via the connection 52 to said extension apparatus T1.

A direct connection from the apparatus T2 to the extension apparatus T1 would be disadvantageous, insofar as the telephonist 6a commanding the control panel 6 would then totally lose control of the call.

Figure 5 is intended to illustrate the possibility of connecting a call and a speech channel between the telephone apparatus T2 and T1 via the telephonist 6a and via the switching unit 3" of the mobile telecommunications network 2.

Information as to the call and the speech channel concerned and the extension number T1 to which the call and the speech channel were intended to be connected is sent from the control panel 6 to the control unit and its database 3' via the connection 46, the IP network 4 and the connection 34.

This two-step coupling process takes place by virtue of the control unit 3' allowing a unique telephone number to be taken from a number pool 3b. Information as to the identity of the number selected is sent to the telephonist keyboard 6 via the IP network 4.

The call and the speech channel are connected automatically to the keyboard when the telephonist 6a depresses the connection button on the keyboard 6.

The call and the speech channel are sent through the management of the private branch exchange and the telephone network to said number, whose destination lies in the coupling or switching unit 3". The coupling unit 3" informs the control unit 3' when the call and the speech channel have arrived and since the control unit is aware of the speech channel to which the pool number belongs, the control unit 3' orders the coupling unit 3" to send the call and the speech channel to the desired extension. The pool number is then returned to the free pool 3b.

In the event of a recall being current for some reason or another, information is also sent from the control panel 6 or from the telephonist board to the control unit 3' as to the identity of the telephonist 6a who expedited the call.

The control unit, including the database 3', then orders the coupling unit 3" to make an outgoing call to the desired extension telephone T1 and the telephone apparatus T2 is connected to the telephone apparatus T1 via the network 1 , the line 15, the private branch exchange 5, the line 52, the line 23, the coupling unit 3" and the line 23'.

As illustrated in Figure 6, a time monitoring circuit 3a in the control unit is activated at the same time and if the telephone apparatus T1 fails to answer within a given time period, the circuit 3a functions to switch the call back to the telephonist 6 via the mobile network PBX-function 3 and its coupling unit 3", with the aid of a number pool 5b in a manner similar to that described above.

According to the Figure 6 embodiment, the control unit 3' selects a number from a number pool 3b and connects the call to this number.

All numbers in the number pool 3b are sent through the agency of the networks and the exchanges to the input queue or input line of the telephonist 6a in the private branch exchange 5.

Because only one number from the number pool 3b is used at any one time, the call will be unequivocally defined when arriving at the switchboard.

At the same time, the control unit 3' sends call information to the switchboard 6 via an interface module 3", the line 34, the IP network 4, a line 46 and the control panel 6. A chosen call number also discloses the identity of the call in this case. When the call or the speech channel is connected to the telephonist 6a, information relating to the call already exists and is shown on the screen or monitor 66. The system is, of course, well aware that the call belongs to the mobile network.

The telephonist 6a is informed on his/her screen or monitor 66 on the control panel 6 of the identity of the call together with other data, e.g. the desired extension number.

Information is transferred to the telephonist 6a and his/her associated control panel 6 via connections referenced 34, the IP network 4 and the line 46.

The call and the speech channel are now handled by the same telephonist 6a in the same control panel or switchboard 6, although now entirely within the mobile environment.

Figure 7 illustrates a coupling occasion or situation where it is desired to connect the calling party T2 to another mobile extension (T1).

On this occasion, the telephonist 6a finds the relevant extension number in the control unit database 3' and a fresh coupling sequence takes place analogously with the afore described procedure, by virtue of the control unit, including the database 3', being informed, via the IP network 4, to order the coupling unit 3" to release the connection to the telephonist 6a and to instead connect to another given extension number (T1).

Because the call has already passed through the coupling unit 3", the control unit 3' is already aware of the call, therewith obviating the use of the pool number technique in this case. The coupling unit 3" simply releases the connection to the telephonist 6a and connects the call to a desired extension number. In the event of an unsuccessful attempt to connect a calling party T2 to a mobile extension number, the Figure 8 embodiment includes the possibility of enabling the calling party to be connected to an extension number T3 related to or behind the private branch exchange 5 and therewith retain the control of the PBX-function 3 of the mobile system 2 over the call and the speech channel and connect said call to the extension number T3 via the direct selection function of the private branch exchange 5.

Recall to the telephonist 6a and the control panel 6 takes place analogously with the aforesaid, by causing the coupling unit 3" to again connect a call and a speech channel to the telephonist 6a, where all procedures are controlled by the control unit that includes the database 3" (Figure 6).

Figure 9 illustrates the principles that apply initially when a call or a speech channel from the apparatus T2 arrives at the telephonist 6a and the control panel 6 via the mobile PBX-function 3, and when the call shall be connected to an extension number T3 behind the private branch exchange 5.

A direct call and speech channel to the telephonist 6a always pass the coupling unit 3" in the mobile environment.

This is so that the control unit, including database 3', shall be able to give correct information concerning calls and speech channels relating to the telephonist 6a and the control unit 6.

Figures 10 and 11 are intended to make clear the situation when the telephonist 6a shall switch a call or a speech channel via the control panel 6, such switching always being effected so that the control unit, including the database 3', retains control of the call or speech channel and also any recall, thus regardless of whether the call or the speech channel shall be connected to an extension number in a mobile or in a fixed scenario.

The process is appropriate for several reasons, among other things to avoid so-called "multiple trombonation" (see Figure 12) in the event of repeated coupling attempts, to facilitate adaptation to the normally closed environment of the private branch exchange 5, and, as Figure 11 is intended to show, to alleviate difficulties in sending the call and the speech channel back to the telephonist 6a who originally connected the call via his/her control panel 6 when allowing the private branch exchange 5 to control and manage redirection of the call to the telephonist 6a in the event of the telephone apparatus to which the call was directed failing to answer the call.

Figure 12 is intended to illustrate the consequences that are associated with coupling occasions here designated "multiple trombonation".

Figure 12 includes a number of reference signs "a", "b" - "f that illustrate in alphabetical order a sequence of the events taking place in a more complicated coupling sequence.

It shall be assumed in this case that a call or speech channel arrives at the private branch exchange 5 at "a" and is from there connected to "b" and the mobile coupling or switching unit 3" and shall be terminated at the telephone apparatus (T1).

The extension apparatus (T1) fails to answer and, as a result of a recall to "c", the call is transferred to the private branch exchange 5 and then to the telephonist 6a and his/her control panel 6.

The logic in the private branch exchange 5 is then used to effect a new coupling attempt "d" to the extension telephone T3 of the private branch exchange 5.

This latter coupling attempt results in a renewed recall "e" to the telephonist 6a, wherewith multiple trombonation occurs when a new attempt "f" is made to connect to the requested mobile extension number T1.

The resultant complicated coupling path or traffic path shall be compared with that shown in and described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 13 shows that the control panel or switchboard 6 includes a number of function blocks in the known case described in Figure 2.

For example, there is included an interface 62 between the private branch exchange 5 (connected thereto by the connection 56) and the control panel 6. This interface 62 is often provided in the form of software API (Application Programmers Interface) in a computer by the private branch exchange suppliers and is normally utilised by separate switchboard suppliers. The interface 62 may alternatively be a series port with associated communications protocol.

The traditional switchboard also includes telephone call handling functions 63 and intercepts information handling functions 64, and also a display surface 61 , all of which are normally implemented in a personal computer.

The functions 62 are always supplied by telephone exchange manufacturers, whereas the functions 61 , 63 and 64 may be supplied either by the exchange manufacturer or by some separate manufacturer.

Figure 14 illustrates schematically the case when the intercept functions have been moved to the control unit 3' in the PBX-function 3. In this case, call management 63 has been enhanced with the logic required to handle, inter alia, the number pool, and also logic that takes into account whether relevant extension apparatus belong to the mobile network or to the private branch exchange on the basis of information in the control unit 3'.

Also included is an interface and communications module 65, which communicates with the PBX-function 3 via the connection 46.

Placement of the intercept function with its database centrally in the mobile telecommunications network 2 enables the function to be administered centrally, therewith simplifying not only handling by the user but also installation of the function. The telephonist 6a is connected to the private branch exchange 5 via the speech channel 56'.

Figure 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the private branch exchange 5 is used solely as a transmission medium.

The main telephone number of the exchange is redirected in the fixed telecommunications network 1 so that all calls to this main number will end up in the coupling unit 3". In this case, the control unit 3' manages line (queue) handling and load distribution between telephonists.

Similarly, all calls and speech channels to direct selection numbers in the private branch exchange 5 may be sent to the control unit 3' via the coupling unit 3", with the intention of providing the telephonist 6a with improved information concerning a desired extension connection.

Before forwarding a call, a check is made in the control unit database 3' to ascertain whether or not the extension number is referenced and if such is the case the call is switched to a chosen service, for instance to the telephonist.

In this case, the telephonist 6 need only be coupled to the PBX-function 3, therewith simplifying construction and management.

Another benefit is that the telephonist's workplace 6 need not be constructed to suit all types of private branch exchanges 5. A drawback consists in increased trombonation of calls in the coupling unit 3", which as a result must be given a greater capacity, and that the services included in the private branch exchange 5 cannot be utilised to the full.

In this case, all intelligent coupling or switching takes place in the coupling unit 3" and in the control unit 3'. The speech channel 56' of the telephonist 6a constitutes the connection with the private branch exchange 5 and may be any extension apparatus whatsoever (fixed extension apparatus behind the exchange 5 or a mobile extension apparatus), although not the switchboard 6 belonging to the exchange 5. This switchboard is not used in the case of this embodiment.

When the PBX-function 3 shall connect a call and a speech channel to the telephonist 6a, a call is made to the telephone extension number. Information relating to the call is sent to the monitor 66 of the telephonist via the communications module 3'", the line 34, the IP network 4, the line 46 and the control panel 6.

Figure 16 is intended to illustrate a coupling occasion in which a calling party T2 wishes to obtain speech contact with an extension number T1 , and where the call is forwarded to a telephonist 6a in the absence of a reply.

It has been assumed above that the call and the speech channel to the telephonist 6a have been sent via the mobile network 2 and the coupling unit 3" when the call has been connected in the mobile 2 environment via line 52'.

A coupling occasion has also been assumed that a call and a speech channel have been delivered to the telephonist 6a via the private branch exchange 5 when the call is controlled in a PBX-related environment via the line 52 and 56'.

Thus, the connection from the mobile network 2 to the private branch ex- change 5 can pass directly via a direct connection 52 or via connected lines 12 and 15 respectively over the fixed network 1.

In the case of the Figure 1 embodiment, information will then flow through the communications module 3'", the line 34, and the line 46 to the control panel 6, whereafter information concerning calls and speech channels will be sent to the telephonist display surface or monitor 66. If several calls are in line, or in a queue, to the telephonist 6a in the case of this application, the speech channels are not released between two mutually sequential calls but that solely a new call is signalled to the display surface 66.

This is particularly important when the extension of the telephonist 6a is a mobile extension, since the coupling times involved in this case are relatively long and would, in such cases, reduce the effectiveness of the telephonist's work.

It will also be noted that in accordance with the directives of the present invention, it is possible to co-ordinate intercept systems so as to form a common intercept system when an intercept system shall be included, instead of distributing the intercept systems used, for example one such system for each private branch exchange 5.

According to the principles of the invention, each telephonist will have transparent access to telephone functions between the fixed and the mobile telecommunications systems, where calls and speech channels related to the mobile environment can be co-ordinated in the private branch exchange 5.

It will, of course, be understood that the invention is not restricted to the embodiments according to the afore described examples and that modifications can be made within the scope of the inventive concept illustrated in the accompanying Claims.

It will be noted in particular that each described and illustrated unit can be combined with each other described and illustrated unit within the framework of enabling desired technical functions to be achieved.

Claims

1. A telephonist-manned telecommunications-related arrangement that includes a mobile telecommunications system and system-associated mobile telephone apparatus, wherein said mobile telecommunications system includes those means and devices required for PBX-functions for a number of chosen mobile telephone extension apparatus, and further comprising a fixed telecommunications system and system-associated fixed telephone appara- tus, wherein a private branch exchange that includes a number of chosen fixed extension telephone apparatus is co-ordinated with said fixed telecommunications system, wherein the telephonist has at his/her disposal a control panel that includes a display unit or display surface, and wherein an incoming call can be converted to an outgoing call to a chosen telephone extension apparatus through the medium of said control panel, and wherein the telephonist also has access to a speech channel, characterised in that the telephonist-allocated control panel is adapted to establish an information transfer mode with the aid of two disparate connections, i.e. one connection related to said PBX-function in the mobile telecommunications system, and one connection related to the private branch exchange in the fixed telecommunications system; and in that the control panel includes circuits and memories and/or has access to circuits and memories, containing, inter alia, information disclosing whether an extension telephone apparatus is related to the PBX-function of the mobile telecommunications system or to the private branch exchange of the fixed telecommunications system.

2. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , characterised in that the control panel connection to the mobile telecommunications system is effected via a first interface; and in that the connection to the private branch exchange is effected via a second interface.

3. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , characterised in that the transfer of information from the mobile telecommunications system functions to present a system significant indication on said display surface.

4. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , characterised in that the transfer of information from the private branch exchange and the fixed telecommunications system functions to present a system significant indication on said display surface.

5. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , characterised in that the telephonist has a telephone extension unit valid for both systems, for speech contact with the mobile telecommunications system and/or the private branch exchange.

6. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , characterised in that one or more telephonists with an associated control panel is/are connected to both systems.

7. An arrangement according to Claim 1 or 6, characterised in that the arrangement is such that each telephonist is allocated solely the information in a control unit database that concerns directly the company served by the telephonist.

8. An arrangement according to Claim 1 or 6, characterised in that a number of telephonists connected to both of said systems are dispersed geographically and function to serve one or more companies.

9. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , characterised in that the telephonist control panel is coupled to the mobile telecommunications system via a data network, such as the Internet, and a security function; and in that the telephonist is able to receive and to expedite calls and speech channels in both the mobile and the fixed telecommunications networks via said connec- tions.

10. An arrangement according to any one of the preceding Claims, where a call is incoming to a telephonist and his/her control panel via a private branch exchange, characterised in that the telephonist is informed on his/her screen or display surface whether the call is to a main telephone number or whether the call is redirected, wherein the identity of the telephone extension number to which the call was originally made is fetched from the control unit database together with information concerning the absence of a reply to said call.

11. An arrangement according to Claim 10, characterised in that when a calling party expresses a desire to obtain speech contact with another extension telephone, the telephonist fetches relevant extension numbers from the control unit database, which also has stored therein information as to whether the extension number belongs to the mobile or to the fixed telecommunications network.

12. An arrangement according to Claim 10 or 11 , characterised in that when a requested extension number belongs to the mobile telecommunications network, the call is connected to said network, which can be achieved either via connections to the fixed network or connections to the mobile network.

13. An arrangement according to Claim 10, characterised in that in the case of a call connected to the PBX-function via a data network and via connections, information is sent from the telephonist unit to the control unit concerning the extension number to which the call was intended originally for connection, and information as to the identity of the telephonist who expedited the call in the event of a recall being current for some reason or other, whereafter the control unit orders the coupling unit to make an outgoing call to the desired extension number.

14. An arrangement according to Claim 13, characterised in that the control unit includes a time-monitoring circuit which, in the event of the telephone apparatus not answering the call, switches the call back to the telephonist via the PBX-function of the mobile network, wherein the telephonist is informed on his/her screen or monitor of the identity of the call and also other data, e.g. the requested extension number.

15. An arrangement according to Claim 10, characterised in that when the calling party desires to be connected to another mobile extension apparatus, the extension number concerned will be found by the telephonist in the control unit database and a new connection is effected by virtue of the control unit being informed via the data network to order the coupling unit to release the connection to the telephonist and, instead, connect the call to another extension number.

16. An arrangement according to Claim 10, characterised in that when a calling party wishes to be connected to an extension number behind the private branch exchange in the event of an unsuccessful attempt to connect to a mobile extension number, the PBX-function of the mobile system retains control over the call and connects the call to the desired extension number via direct selection functions of the private branch exchange.

17. An arrangement according to any one of the preceding Claims 1- 10, where a call is incoming to a telephonist and his/her control panel via the mobile PBX-function and shall be connected to an extension telephone apparatus related to the private branch exchange, characterised in that said connection is effected via an interconnect function.

18. An arrangement according to Claim 1 , 10 or 17, characterised in that each call to a main telephone number of the private branch exchange is intended for redirection in the fixed telecommunications network such as to connect said call to a coupling or switching unit co-ordinated with the PBX- function.

19. An arrangement according to Claim 18, characterised by a con- trol unit which is co-ordinated with the PBX-function such as to permit line or queue handling to be achieved by respective telephonists and/or the load to be distributed there between.