JP2001197562A - Wireless communication system, server and communication terminal, and group speech control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a wireless communication system that can realize group speech is wireless communication and also realize ease of participation to and retirement from the group speech. SOLUTION: A server 2 of the wireless communication system is configured with a participation terminal management section 22 that receives a group speech opening request from any communication terminal and manages all communication terminals taking part in the group speech, a speech data synthesis section 23 that synthesizes speech data from each communication terminal taking part in the group speech and distributes synthesized data to each communication terminal, and a speech history management section 24 that records the speech data as a speech history. For example, the wireless communication system is characterized in that when any communication terminal transmits a group speech end request during opening of the group speech and the speech history recording means records an end history with respect to the group speech, and the channel of the communication terminal is interrupted.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a wireless communication system capable of realizing simultaneous communication of a large number of people while a plurality of communication terminals such as mobile phones are connected to a server via a wireless communication line. More particularly, the present invention relates to a wireless communication system that realizes highly convenient multi-person communication by providing predetermined call history information to a plurality of people who make a group call, and a multi-person communication method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A conventional communication system for performing simultaneous communication by a large number of people, such as a group call, will be described below. For example, as such a conventional communication system, there is a "network system and a session management method thereof" described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-47441. FIG.
It is a figure showing the composition of the above-mentioned conventional communication system. Here, by making it possible to easily participate in a session such as a conference performed using the network system, the use efficiency of the system is improved.

In FIG. 13, reference numeral 101 denotes a session server which operates as a computer for managing session information relating to a session such as a conference; 102, a master which operates as a master (chair) computer for hosting the session; A slave that operates as a slave (participant) computer operated by a participant of the session.

Next, the operation of the conventional communication system will be described. In the communication system configured as described above, the session server 101 provides, for each user (master, slave) participating in the session, as session information regarding the session, for example, a session name, a user name of a participant of the session. ,hostname,
Provide tools that are used jointly. Then, each user displays the session information on each screen. Thereby, each user can easily confirm the user name of the participant, the name of the shared tool, and the like.

[0005] The session server 101 provides a part of the session information to a user (slave) who wants to participate in a session currently being held.
Then, the user who wants to participate newly displays a part of the received session information on the screen and designates the session desired to participate, thereby joining the session.
Thus, a user who wants to participate newly can easily determine whether the currently held session is a session for which participation is desired.

The master 102 can designate a user name that is not permitted to participate in a session held by the master 102 in a process prepared in advance. Therefore, the master 10
In 2, if there is a user who wants to join in the middle,
It is determined whether the user is a user who can participate based on the designation information. Contrary to the above, only the participation of the user designated in advance may be permitted. As described above, the master 102 can efficiently perform the session participation reception process even in a case where a session in which the number of participants is limited is performed.

[0007]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION However,
In the conventional communication system, since the session server presents the above-described session information, each user can easily participate in the session, but at this time, each user cannot know the contents of the call up to the time of participation, There was a problem.

Further, in the conventional communication system, since no call information is stored, there is a problem that effective services such as search and distribution of call contents during and after a conference cannot be performed. .

Further, the conventional communication system is used for communication between computers connected to a network. For example, there is a problem that a method for performing a multi-person call by wireless communication is not provided. Was.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and realizes a group call by wireless communication.
It is an object of the present invention to obtain a wireless communication system capable of facilitating participation and withdrawal from the group call, and a server, a communication terminal, and a multi-person communication method constituting the system.

[0011]

Means for Solving the Problems To solve the above-mentioned problems,
In order to achieve the object, in a wireless communication system according to the present invention, a plurality of communication terminals and a server are connected via a wireless communication line, and further, the server is connected to any one of the communication terminals. Receives a request to hold a group call, sends a notification to all communication terminals described in the request to join the group call,
A participant terminal management unit (corresponding to a participant terminal management unit 22 in an embodiment described later) that manages all communication terminals participating in the group call by receiving terminal information from each communication terminal that has prompted the participation; , Combining call data from each communication terminal participating in the group call, and distributing the combined data to each communication terminal.
The communication terminal includes a distribution unit (corresponding to the communication data synthesizing unit 23) and a call history recording unit (corresponding to the communication history management unit 24) for recording the call data as a call history, and the communication terminal transmits and receives the communication data. Transmission / reception control means (transmission / reception unit 15, voice input / output unit 13, input / output unit 13, transmission / reception unit 15) for transmitting a group call holding request to a server connected via a wireless communication line, Unit 11 and a display unit 12), and own terminal information management means (corresponding to the own terminal information management unit 14) for transmitting own terminal information when participating in a group call in response to a holding notification from the server. , Is provided.

[0012] In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, the call history recording means, when receiving a history search request from the communication terminal, searches for a desired call history based on the request content; The search result is returned to the communication terminal, and the communication terminal notifies the user of the call content obtained as the call history by voice or character information.

[0013] In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, the communication terminal stores a call history including a participant, a holding time, and the contents of the call as needed during the holding of the group call. A call history management unit (corresponding to the call information recording unit 16) for registering the stored call history in a server.

[0014] In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, when a plurality of users receive a designated history search request from the communication terminal, the call history recording means may determine a desired history search request based on the request content. , And the search result is distributed to communication terminals used by the plurality of users.

[0015] In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, the call history recording means, when receiving a withdrawal request from the communication terminal, continuously performs a group call between other communication terminals. The content is recorded in the call history recording means, and after the group call ends, a desired call history is searched based on the request content, and the search result is returned to the communication terminal of the unsubscription request transmission source. I do.

[0016] In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, the participation terminal management means transmits an event notification by e-mail when the communication terminal which has urged the participation cannot receive a call. When the event notification is an e-mail, a normal event notification other than an e-mail is requested as a reply e-mail for participating in the group call.

In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, if the group call has already been completed when the communication terminal has transmitted the reply mail, the call history recording means sets the group call corresponding to the reply mail. The communication history is transmitted to the communication terminal of the reply mail transmission source, and the communication terminal notifies the user of the call content obtained as the call history by voice or text information.

[0018] In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, the participant terminal management means receives a request to join midway during the holding of the group call or a request to withdraw from the holding group call. If
By transmitting the user information on the communication terminal that has transmitted the request to all currently participating communication terminals, and by counting information returned from all of the communication terminals,
It is characterized by the decision of participation or withdrawal.

In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, if a communication terminal used by a user who wants to withdraw from the group call is based on a message from the server when the currently held group call is important. hand,
Withdrawing from a group call by a special operation that is not accidentally disconnected.

In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, in a communication terminal used by a user participating in a group call, any key operation of the communication terminal can be performed.
Switch between voice input and text input,
It is characterized by making a call.

In the wireless communication system according to the next invention, when a communication terminal connected to the group call is illegally disconnected, the communication terminal receives a reconnection request from the server, and again performs the group call. It is characterized by being connected.

In a wireless communication system according to the next invention, a communication terminal used by a user who cannot participate in a group call by inputting either of the voice and the character may participate in the group call in a reception only mode. It is characterized by.

In the server according to the next invention, a plurality of communication terminals are connected via a wireless communication line, and further, a group call holding request from any one of the communication terminals is received, and the request is described in the request. All the communication terminals that participate in the group call by transmitting a holding notification that prompts participation to the group call to all the communication terminals that have participated, and thereafter receiving terminal information from each communication terminal that prompted the participation. Terminal management means for managing the call data, call data synthesis / distribution means for synthesizing call data from each communication terminal participating in the group call, and distributing the synthesized data to each communication terminal, and communicating the call data Call history recording means for recording as a history, receiving a group call termination request from any of the communication terminals during the holding of the group call. , Then, at the stage of recording the ending history related to the group call, characterized by cutting the line.

[0024] In the server according to the next invention, the call history recording means, when receiving a history search request from the communication terminal, searches for a desired call history based on the request content. The result is returned to the communication terminal.

[0025] In the server according to the next invention, the call history recording means, when a plurality of users receive a designated history search request from the communication terminal,
A desired call history is searched based on the request content, and the search result is delivered to communication terminals used by the plurality of users.

In the server according to the next invention, when the call history recording means receives a withdrawal request from the communication terminal, the contents of the group call continuously performed between the other communication terminals are received. The call history is recorded in the call history recording means, and after the group call ends, a desired call history is searched based on the request content, and the search result is returned to the communication terminal of the transmission source of the cancellation request.

[0027] In the server according to the next invention, the participating terminal managing means transmits a notice of holding by e-mail when the communication terminal that prompted the participation cannot receive a call.

[0028] In the server according to the next invention, if the group call has already been completed when the reply mail from the communication terminal is received, the call history recording means calls the group call corresponding to the reply mail. The history is transmitted to the communication terminal of the reply mail transmission source.

[0029] In the server according to the next invention, the participant terminal management means may receive a request to join in the middle of holding the group call or a request to withdraw from the holding group call. Transmitting user information on the communication terminal that has transmitted the request to all currently participating communication terminals and summing up information returned from all of the communication terminals to determine whether participation or unsubscription is possible It is characterized by the following.

In the communication terminal according to the next invention,
Transmission / reception control means for controlling transmission / reception of communication data in a group call, and further transmitting a group call holding request to a server connected via a wireless communication line when a group call is desired; and the server And a self-terminal information management means for transmitting self-terminal information when participating in a group call in response to a holding notification from.

In the communication terminal according to the next invention, the transmission / reception control means transmits a history search request to the server when searching a call history, and thereafter, a call content obtained as a call history. Is notified to the user by voice or character information.

In the communication terminal according to the next invention,
Further, a call history management means for storing a call history including a participant, a holding time, and a call content at any time during the holding of the group call, and registering the saved call history in a server after the end of the group call. It is characterized by.

[0033] In the communication terminal according to the next invention, the transmission / reception control means transmits a history search request designating a plurality of users to the server when distribution of the call history is desired. Features.

[0034] In the communication terminal according to the next invention, the transmission / reception control means transmits a withdrawal request to the server when the withdrawal of the group call is desired.

In the communication terminal according to the next invention, in the transmission / reception control means, when the event notification from the server is an e-mail, a reply mail other than an e-mail is used as a reply mail for participating in the group call. Is requested.

[0036] In the group call control method according to the next invention, a plurality of communication terminals and a server are connected via a wireless communication line, and the server further comprises one of the terminals.
Receive a request to hold a group call from one communication terminal,
A participation notification is transmitted to all the communication terminals described in the request for participation in the group call, and thereafter, terminal information from each of the communication terminals that prompted the participation is received, thereby joining the group call. A participant terminal managing step of managing all communication terminals to perform communication, a call data distribution step of synthesizing call data from the communication terminals participating in the group call, and distributing the synthesized data to the communication terminals; A call history recording step of recording data as a call history; and a step of receiving a group call end request from any of the communication terminals during the holding of the group call, and thereafter recording an end history related to the group call. And a group call end step of disconnecting the call.

In the group call control method according to the next invention, when the server further receives a history search request from the communication terminal, the server searches for a desired call history based on the request content. A communication history search step of returning the search result to the communication terminal.

[0038] In the group call control method according to the next invention, when the server further receives a history search request in which a plurality of users are specified from the communication terminal, the server determines a desired history search request based on the request content. And a communication history distribution step of distributing the search result to communication terminals used by the plurality of users.

[0039] In the group call control method according to the next invention, when the server further receives a withdrawal request from the communication terminal, the server continues the group call between the other communication terminals. A communication history return step of recording the contents in the call history recording step, searching for a desired call history based on the request contents after the group call ends, and returning the search result to the communication terminal of the transmission source of the withdrawal request; , Is included.

[0040] In the group call control method according to the next invention, the server further transmits the holding notice again by e-mail to the communication terminal that cannot receive a call in the sending processing of the holding notice. And sending a mail holding notification.

[0041] In the group call control method according to the next invention, if the group call has already ended when the server receives the reply mail from the communication terminal, the server responds to the reply mail. The call history of the group call is transmitted to the communication terminal of the reply mail transmission source.

[0042] In the group call control method according to the next invention, the server further receives a request to join in the middle of holding the group call, or receives a request to withdraw from the holding group call. In this case, the user information on the communication terminal that has transmitted the request is transmitted to all currently participating communication terminals, and information returned from all of the communication terminals is counted to determine whether participation or unsubscription is possible. And a participation / withdrawal determination step of determining whether or not to participate.

[0043]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a wireless communication system and a multi-person communication method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited by the embodiment.

Embodiment 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a wireless communication system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 2 denotes a server that manages simultaneous communication by a plurality of users, and reference numeral 1 denotes a plurality of communication terminals wirelessly connected to the server 2. Although only one communication terminal is shown in FIG. 1 for convenience of description, there are actually a plurality of communication terminals.

In the communication terminal 1 of FIG. 1, reference numeral 11 denotes an input unit for receiving input information from the user, 12 denotes a display unit for displaying information to the user on a display, and 13 denotes a voice input from the user. And a voice input / output unit for controlling voice output to the other party, a local terminal information management unit 14 for storing information (for example, a user name and a profile) of the local communication terminal, and a transmission / reception unit 15 for communication data. Is a transmission / reception unit for controlling

In the server 2 of FIG. 1, reference numeral 21 denotes a transmission / reception unit for controlling transmission / reception of communication data, reference numeral 22 denotes a participation terminal management unit for managing all communication terminals participating in the group call, Is a communication data synthesis unit that synthesizes the call data received from each of the communication terminals,
A call history management unit that searches and registers history information related to group calls. A call history storage unit 25 is provided outside the server 2 and stores history information on the group call. The call history storage 25
May be arranged in the server 2. Further, the call history storage unit 25 stores, for example, group call names, organizer names, participant names, conference start / end dates and times, keywords, call contents, and the like as history information regarding group calls.

Next, the operation of the wireless communication system according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server 2. First, the server 2 waits for a request to hold a group call from a wirelessly connected communication terminal (step S1). In this state, when a group call holding request in which a member and a conference name are specified is received from a communication terminal that desires to hold a group call (step S
2) The server 2 extracts information on the designated member from the request (step S3), performs a calling process for all communication terminals corresponding to the extracted member, and sends the call to the conference. Encourage participation (step S4). That is, a notification of holding a group call is transmitted.

Thereafter, when each of the communication terminals which encouraged participation participates in a group call (conference) and receives communication data individually from those communication terminals (step S5), the server 2 selects one of the communication data from among the communication data. The terminal information (for example, user name, profile, etc.) of each communication terminal is extracted.
Then, in the server 2, the participating terminal management unit 22 performs a registration process to manage each terminal (Step S).
6), the data synthesizing unit 23 synthesizes the call data from the communication terminals participating in the group call (step S).
7) Then, the composite data is distributed to each communication terminal (step S8). At this time, the call history management unit 24 stores the call data as a call history in the call history storage unit 25 (step S9).

During the period when the group call is being held (step S10, No), the server 2 executes step S10.
When the processing of 7 to S10 is repeatedly executed and the group call termination request is received from any of the communication terminals (step S10, Yes), the call history management unit 24 sends the call history storage unit 25 the information regarding the group call. The end history is written, and the line is disconnected (step S11).

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the communication terminal 1. Here, the operation of the communication terminal 1 will be described, but this operation is common to all communication terminals participating in the group call. First, when the server 2 prompts each communication terminal to hold a group call,
The communication terminal 1 waiting for reception (step S21)
(Step S2)
2). Then, when the user does not participate in the group call (No in step S23), the apparatus enters the reception waiting state again. On the other hand, when it is desired to participate in the group call (step S2
3, Yes), the communication terminal 1 performs an incoming call process by pressing a call button or the like, transmits the terminal information of the own communication terminal (step S24), and then participates in a group call (step S25).

When it is desired to end the group call, the communication terminal 1 transmits a group call end request (step S26), and thereafter ends the group call (step S27).

When a call history is to be searched (see FIG. 4), the communication terminal 1 transmits a history search request to the server 2 (step S31). In response to this, in the server 2, the call history management unit 24 searches a desired history from the call history storage unit 25 based on the content of the history search request (step S32), and stores the search result in the communication terminal. 1
(Step S33). As a transmission method of the history search request, the following two methods can be considered. For example, the communication terminal 1 transmits the search content to the server 2 by mail, and thereafter receives the search result by a reply mail from the server 2. Alternatively, the search result is received by selecting information on a search from a history content menu provided by the server 2.

Further, in the communication terminal 1, the contents of the call obtained as the call history information can be obtained, for example, by voice from the voice input / output unit 13 or by character information from the display unit 12.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the server 2 and the communication terminal perform the processing described above,
It is possible to realize a group call by wireless communication and facilitate participation and termination of the group call. Further, in the present embodiment, server 2 manages information on the participating terminals of the group call and information on the call history (call contents and the like), and uses those information for communication terminal 1. Service can be provided. On the other hand, in the communication terminal 1, it is possible to easily specify information relating to the call history of the group call freely, and easily obtain the contents (voice, character information, etc.).

Embodiment 2 In the first embodiment described above, the server 2 automatically saves the content of the group call as a call history. In the present embodiment, in addition to the functions of the first embodiment, a communication terminal Independently saves the call details and registers the call details on the server.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the second embodiment of the radio communication system according to the present invention. In FIG.
Reference numeral 1a denotes a communication terminal. Reference numeral 16 denotes a call information recording unit that registers a call record of a group call in the server 2. Here, a call information recording unit 16 is added to the configuration of the communication terminal 1 of the first embodiment. Specifically, (see FIG. 6), the call information recording unit 16 performs a group call (step S41).
For example, the participant, the holding time, and the contents of the call are saved as needed (step S42, step S43, No), and after the group call ends (step S43, Yes), the call from the input unit 11 is stored. The stored call record is registered in the server 2 by the history transmission operation (step S44). In the present embodiment, the same components as those in the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted. Further, in FIG. 5, only one communication terminal is described for convenience of description, but there are actually a plurality of communication terminals.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the call information in the communication terminal 1a is stored in the call information recording unit 16, and the contents are registered in the server 2 when the group call is completed. As a result, part of the processing performed by the server 2 in the first embodiment can be partially performed by the communication terminal 1a.
, The load on the server 2 can be reduced, and only the necessary call information in the processing of the call information recording unit 16 can be efficiently stored.

Embodiment 3 FIG. In the first embodiment described above, the server 2 returns the call history to the communication terminal 1 that has transmitted the history search request. In the present embodiment, the function of the first or second embodiment is described. In addition, the call history is distributed to all communication terminals specified by the user. In addition, about the structure of this Embodiment,
A configuration similar to that of the first or second embodiment is used.

Hereinafter, the operation of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a call history search method according to the third embodiment. For example, the communication terminal 1 (or 1
In a), when it is desired to send the call history of the ongoing group call to a plurality of communication terminals, a history search request specifying the plurality of communication terminals is transmitted (step S51).
In response, in the server 2, the call history management unit 24
Retrieves a desired call history from the call history storage unit 25 (step S52), and distributes the search result to a plurality of designated communication terminals (step S53). As a method of specifying a communication terminal to which the call history is to be distributed, for example, a plurality of communication terminals that can be distributed are registered in a group in the memory of the communication terminal 1 in advance, and a communication terminal is selected as necessary from the group.

As described above, in the present embodiment, server 2 distributes a call history to a plurality of communication terminals designated by communication terminal 1 (or 1a). As a result, the contents of the call can be reported to the user (communication terminal) who could not participate in the group call, and the saved call history can be used effectively.

Embodiment 4 In the above-described first embodiment, the communication terminal 1 (or 1a) transmits a history search request to the server 2 to acquire a call history. In addition to the function 3, the communication terminal 1 automatically transmits a history search request for the group call even when the communication terminal 1 withdraws from the group call. Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

Hereinafter, the operation of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a call history search method according to the fourth embodiment. For example, the communication terminal 1 (or 1
In a), when the user wants to withdraw from the group call in which the user has joined, the user sends a withdrawal request to the server 2 by operating the key of the input unit 11 (step S51). In response to this, in the server 2, the call history management unit 24 saves the contents of the group call continuously performed between the other communication terminals in the call history storage unit 25 (step S52). Then, a desired communication history is searched from the call history storage unit 25 based on the contents of the unsubscription request (step S5).
3), and transmits the search result to the communication terminal requesting withdrawal (step S54).

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when one of the communication terminals participating in the group call withdraws, server 2 continues to perform the group call between the other communication terminals. Save the contents. As a result, even if you unsubscribe from a group call,
After unsubscribing, you can know the final call content.

Embodiment 5 Embodiments 1 to 4 described above
Is a method in which a communication terminal that has received a notice of holding from the server 2 receives a call and participates in a group call. In the present embodiment, in addition to the functions of the first to fourth embodiments, The following describes how to handle a case where the terminal cannot receive a call when the power is turned off, out of service area, or absence of a user.
Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

Hereinafter, the operation of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server 2. Note that the same operations as those in FIG. 2 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted. For example, when the server 2 receives a group call holding request from a communication terminal desiring to hold a group call (step S
2) Call processing is performed for the participating members in a predetermined procedure (step S4).

At this time, if the communication terminal that has transmitted the event notification has received a call (step S61, Yes), the server 2
Operates in the same manner as in the first embodiment. On the other hand, when the communication terminal is turned off, out of service area, or without a user,
The server 2 stops the call to the communication terminal that does not receive a call even if the call is made (step S61, No), and instead sends an event notification by e-mail (step S62). The subsequent operation is the same as in the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the communication terminal 1 (or 1a). Note that the same operations as those in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. For example, when the notification from the server 2 is a normal event notification (other than e-mail) (step S
71, No), the communication terminal 1 operates in the same manner as in the first embodiment. On the other hand, when the notification from the server 2 is an e-mail (step S71, Yes), the communication terminal 1
Is returned by e-mail (step S72), and reception is waited again.

In this state, a normal host notification from the server 2 that has received the mail is received again, and thereafter, the same operation as in the first embodiment is performed, and the user participates in a group call. Thereby, it is possible to participate in the group call halfway.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the server 2 automatically establishes a group call by e-mail to a communication terminal that cannot receive a call due to reasons such as power off, out of service area, or absence of a user. Send notifications. This allows the communication terminal to receive the notification of the event without fail, so that, for example, if the group call has not ended, it is possible to join the group call halfway.

Embodiment 6 FIG. In the above-described fifth embodiment, the communication terminal participates in a group call halfway, but in the present embodiment, in addition to the functions of the first to fifth embodiments, the communication terminal further holds an electronic mail. When the notification is confirmed and the request for participation in the group call is transmitted, a method for coping with the case where the group call has already been ended is described. Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

Hereinafter, the operation of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the server 2 according to the sixth embodiment. The same operations as those in FIG. 10 of the fifth embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. For example, the communication terminal 1 (or 1a)
When receiving a notice of holding a group call by e-mail from the server 2, a reply mail (participation request) is transmitted to the server 2 to join the group call halfway.

However, if the group call has already ended (steps S85, S86,
Yes), the server 2 extracts the call history of the group call corresponding to the reply mail from the call history storage unit 25, and transmits the call history to the communication terminal of the reply mail transmission source (step S88). Step 86
If a group call is being held in the process (step S8)
6, No), the server 2 transmits a normal event notification (step S87).

As described above, in the present embodiment, even if the group call has already ended when the notification of the holding by the e-mail is confirmed, the call history is obtained instead. You can know.

Embodiment 7 Embodiments 5 and 6 described above
In this embodiment, the communication terminal 1 (or 1a) can easily participate in a group call. In this embodiment, in addition to the functions of the first to sixth embodiments, the number of participating members is further limited. Realized group call. Note that the configuration of this embodiment is the same as that of the first or second embodiment.
A configuration similar to that described above is used.

Hereinafter, the operation of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the server 2 according to the seventh embodiment. For example, during the holding of the group call, the server 2 that has received the participation request from the communication terminal 1 (step S91) newly sends a communication terminal used by another member currently participating in the group call to the communication terminal. The user information of the communication terminal 1 that wants to participate is distributed, and then, it is asked whether participation is possible (step S92).

In the communication terminal used by another member, when the user information of the communication terminal 1 distributed from the server 2 is received, the voice input / output unit 13 or the display unit 12 is used.
The user information is notified to each member, and input of permission / inhibition is awaited. After that, each communication terminal returns each input result to the server 2.

In the server 2 which has received the input results from the communication terminals of all the members (step S93, Yes),
The input results of each member are totaled to formally determine whether or not a new member can participate (step S94), and the determination result is reported to each member participating in the group call (step S95). As a method of deciding whether or not to participate, there are various methods such as a decision by majority decision of participating members, a decision by a certain leader, and the like. Also, when unsubscribing from a group call,
In the same procedure as in the case of the new participation, the server 2 receiving the withdrawal request distributes the user information of the communication terminal that wants to withdraw to other members, and tallies the replies from each communication terminal as to whether or not it is possible, After that, it is officially decided whether to withdraw.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the server 2 receives a new participation request during a group call, the server 2 informs other participating members about the user who wants to participate. Distribute information and ask if you can participate. Thereby, since the participating members can be limited for important group calls, confidentiality can be improved. Also, at the time of withdrawal during a group call, all other participating members can know who wants to withdraw, so that important members can be prevented from withdrawing, for example.

Embodiment 8 FIG. In the present embodiment,
In addition to the functions of the first to seventh embodiments, an operation for unsubscribing a member (communication terminal) participating in a group call is further defined. Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

First, the server 2 grasps in advance whether the currently held group call is important or not important (hereinafter referred to as a normal group call). In this state, if, for example, the user wishes to withdraw from the normal group call, the communication terminal operates in response to the disconnection key or the power-off key of the input unit 11 without operating the server 2. Unsubscribe from a group call.

On the other hand, if the user wishes to withdraw from the important group call, the communication terminal cannot cancel with the same operation as described above. Withdraw from the ongoing group call with a different operation.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the operation at the time of withdrawal is specified as described above, and the withdrawal of an important group call is performed by a special operation. It is possible to prevent unsubscription from group calls.

Embodiment 9 FIG. In the present embodiment,
In addition to the functions of the first to eighth embodiments, various input methods for group calls are defined. More specifically, a group call by voice and character input is defined. Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

For example, the communication terminal 1 usually participates in a group call by voice communication using the voice input / output unit 13. However, depending on the usage environment, there is a case where a group call by voice cannot be performed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in addition to the above-described group call by voice, for example, it is possible to participate in the group call by character input using the input unit 11. Specifically, the communication terminal 1
Enables switching between a voice input mode and a character input mode by an arbitrary key operation.

When there is a communication terminal 1 operating in the character input mode, the server 2 performs a speech reading process of the character information received from the communication terminal 1, and the communication data synthesizing unit 23 transmits the character information from another communication terminal. Is synthesized with the voice data. Then, the server 2 distributes the synthesized data to all communication terminals participating in the group call.

As described above, in the present embodiment, by making it possible to participate in the group call in the voice input mode or the character input mode, the group call can be made in various use environments.

Embodiment 10 In the present embodiment, a method of reconnecting a communication terminal participating in a group call when the call is illegally disconnected will be described. Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

For example, if the communication terminal 1 participating in the group call is illegally disconnected due to movement out of the communication range or erroneous operation of the power OFF key, the server 2 Send a request to reconnect to a group call.

The communication terminal 1 can reconnect to the group call by receiving a reconnection request from the server 2. If the call is not received in response to the reconnection request,
The server 2 sends a reconnection request by e-mail to the communication terminal.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when a certain communication terminal is accidentally disconnected while participating in a group call, server 2 transmits a reconnection request. The communication terminal that has been illegally disconnected can easily reconnect to the group call.

Embodiment 11 FIG. In the present embodiment, a participation method is specified when a communication terminal cannot participate in a group call in any of the voice input mode and the character input mode. Note that the configuration of the present embodiment uses the same configuration as the above-described first or second embodiment.

[0092] For example, in the communication terminal 1, when voice input and character input are not possible due to the usage environment, the user participates in the group call in the reception mode. At this time, the communication terminal 1
Saves the call content in the answering machine function, for example. When the communication terminal 1 requests reception by e-mail, the server 2 converts the content of the call into text information, and then transmits the text information by e-mail.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when transmission is impossible, the communication terminal 1 can confirm the contents of the group call by participating in the group call in the reception mode using voice or text. Can be.

[0094]

As described above, according to the present invention, a server and a communication terminal are connected via a wireless communication line.
By sending or receiving a group call holding request or a group call end request, participation in the group call,
Alternatively, it is possible to obtain a wireless communication system capable of realizing the processing for ending the group call.

According to the next invention, the server manages the information on the participating terminals of the group call and the information on the call history (call contents, etc.), thereby providing a service using the information to the communication terminal. There is an effect that a possible wireless communication system can be obtained. Further, it is possible to obtain a wireless communication system capable of freely specifying information regarding a call history of a group call and easily obtaining the contents (voice, character information, and the like).

According to the next invention, the communication terminals participating in the group call save the call information, and when the group call ends, register the contents in the server. Thus, since the communication terminal bears a part of the processing performed by the server, the load on the server can be reduced, and only the call information necessary for the processing of the communication terminal can be efficiently stored. An effect is obtained that a wireless communication system capable of performing the above can be obtained.

According to the next invention, the server distributes the call history to a plurality of communication terminals specified by the history search request. As a result, the contents of the call can be reported to a user (communication terminal) who could not participate in the group call, and furthermore, wireless communication that can effectively use the stored call history There is an effect that a system can be obtained.

According to the next invention, even when one of the communication terminals participating in the group call withdraws, the server continuously saves the contents of the group call performed between the other communication terminals. As a result, even when a group call is canceled during the call, it is possible to obtain a wireless communication system capable of knowing the final call content after the cancellation.

According to the next invention, the server is connected to the power supply OF
At the time of F, out of service area, absence of a user, or the like, a communication terminal that cannot receive a call is automatically transmitted as a group call start notification by e-mail. As a result, the communication terminal can always receive the notification of the event, for example,
If the group call has not ended, it is possible to obtain a wireless communication system capable of joining the group call halfway.

According to the next invention, even if the group call has already been completed at the time of confirming the notice of holding by e-mail, the call history is acquired instead.
There is an effect that a wireless communication system capable of knowing the contents of a group call can be obtained.

According to the next invention, when the server receives a new participation request during a group call, the server distributes user information on the user who wants to participate to other participating members, Ask if you can participate. Thereby, since the participating members can be limited for important group calls, there is an effect that a wireless communication system capable of improving confidentiality can be obtained. Also, at the time of withdrawal during a group call, all other participating members can grasp the withdrawal requester, for example, it is possible to obtain a wireless communication system capable of preventing important members from withdrawing, This has the effect.

According to the next invention, an operation at the time of withdrawal is specified, and withdrawal of an important group call is performed by a special operation, for example, to prevent withdrawal from an important group call due to an erroneous key operation. It is possible to obtain a wireless communication system capable of performing the above.

According to the next invention, it is possible to obtain a wireless communication system that can support various use environments by enabling participation in a group call in the voice input mode or the character input mode. To play.

According to the next invention, even if a certain communication terminal is accidentally disconnected while participating in a group call, the server transmits a reconnection request, so that the server is illegally disconnected. There is an effect that the communication terminal can obtain a wireless communication system that can easily reconnect to the group call.

According to the next invention, by participating in the group call in the reception mode, it is possible to obtain a radio communication system capable of confirming the contents of the group call even when the communication terminal cannot transmit. It has the effect of being able to.

According to the next invention, a request for holding a group call or a request for ending a group call is received via a wireless communication line, thereby facilitating the process for joining or ending the group call. There is an effect that a server that can be realized can be obtained.

According to the next invention, by managing the information on the participating terminals of the group call and the information on the call history (call contents, etc.), it is possible to provide a service using the information to the communication terminals. There is an effect that a server can be obtained.

According to the next invention, the server distributes the call history to a plurality of communication terminals specified by the history search request. As a result, a server that can report the contents of a call to a user (communication terminal) that could not participate in the group call and that can effectively use the stored call history can be provided. The effect is that it can be obtained.

According to the next invention, even when one of the communication terminals participating in the group call withdraws, the server continuously saves the contents of the group call performed between the other communication terminals. As a result, it is possible to obtain a server capable of providing the final call content to the communication terminal that has withdrawn from the group call halfway.

According to the next invention, the server is connected to the power supply OF
At the time of F, out of service area, absence of a user, or the like, a communication terminal that cannot receive a call is automatically transmitted as a group call start notification by e-mail. As a result, it is possible to obtain a server capable of providing a notification of an event by e-mail to a communication terminal that cannot receive a normal event notification.

According to the next invention, even if the group call has already been completed when the reply mail is received, it is possible to obtain a server capable of providing a call history instead.

According to the next invention, when the server receives a new participation request during a group call, the server distributes user information on the user who wants to participate to other participating members, Ask if you can participate. As a result, it is possible to limit the number of participating members for important group calls, so that a server capable of improving confidentiality can be obtained. Also, even when unsubscribing during a group call, all other participating members can know who wants to unsubscribe,
There is an effect that a server that can prevent an important member from unsubscribing can be obtained.

According to the next invention, the communication terminal transmits a request for holding a group call or a request for ending a group call via a wireless communication line, thereby joining the group call or ending the group call. And a communication terminal capable of realizing the simplification of the processing according to the present invention.

According to the next invention, it is possible to obtain a communication terminal capable of freely designating information regarding a call history of a group call and easily acquiring the contents (voice, character information, etc.). It works.

According to the next invention, the communication terminals participating in the group call save the call information, and register the contents in the server when the group call ends. As a result, a part of the processing performed by the server is burdened, and the communication terminal capable of reducing the load on the server can be obtained.

According to the next invention, it is possible to obtain a communication terminal capable of reporting the contents of a call even to a user (communication terminal) who could not participate in the group call.

According to the next invention, even when a group call is canceled in the middle, it is possible to obtain a communication terminal capable of knowing the final call content after the cancellation.

According to the next invention, since it is possible to receive the notification of holding at the communication terminal without fail, for example, if the group call has not been completed, the communication that can participate in the group call from the middle is possible. This has the effect that a terminal can be obtained.

According to the next invention, a group call holding request or a group call end request is received via a radio communication line, thereby facilitating the process of joining a group call or ending the group call. There is an effect that a group call control method that can be realized can be obtained.

According to the next invention, a service using the information can be provided to the communication terminal by managing the information on the participating terminals of the group call and the information on the call history (call contents etc.). There is an effect that a group call control method can be obtained.

According to the next invention, the server distributes the call history to a plurality of communication terminals specified by the history search request. As a result, the contents of the call can be reported to the user (communication terminal) who could not participate in the group call, and furthermore, the group call that can effectively use the saved call history. There is an effect that a control method can be obtained.

According to the next invention, even when one of the communication terminals participating in the group call withdraws, the server continuously saves the contents of the group call performed between the other communication terminals. As a result, it is possible to obtain a group call control method capable of providing the final call content to the communication terminal that has canceled the group call halfway.

According to the next invention, the server is connected to the power supply OF
At the time of F, out of service area, absence of a user, or the like, a communication terminal that cannot receive a call is automatically transmitted as a group call start notification by e-mail. As a result, it is possible to obtain a group call control method capable of providing an e-mail notification of an event to a communication terminal that cannot receive a normal event notification.

According to the next invention, even if the group call has already ended when the reply mail is received, a group call control method capable of providing a call history can be obtained instead. Play.

According to the next invention, when the server receives a new participation request during a group call, the server distributes user information on the user who wants to participate to other participating members, Ask if you can participate. Thereby, since the participating members can be limited to important group calls, there is an effect that a group call control method capable of improving confidentiality can be obtained. Also, when unsubscribing during a group call,
Since all the other participating members can grasp the withdrawal applicant, there is an effect that, for example, a group call control method that can prevent the withdrawal of important members can be obtained.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a first embodiment of a wireless communication system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the server 2 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the first embodiment showing an operation of the communication terminal 1.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a call history search method according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a second embodiment of the wireless communication system according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a call record registration method by the communication terminal 1a.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a call history search method according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a call history search method according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the server 2 according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the communication terminal according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the server 2 according to the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the server 2 according to the seventh embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a configuration of a conventional communication system.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 1 communication terminal, 2 server, 11 input unit, 12 display unit, 13 voice input / output unit, 14 own terminal information management unit, 1
5 transmitting / receiving unit, 16 call information recording unit, 21 transmitting / receiving unit,
22 Participating terminal management unit, 23 Communication data synthesis unit, 24
Communication history management unit, 25 call history storage unit.

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (Reference) H04Q 7/26 7/30 (72) Inventor Yoichiro Tomari 2-3-2 Marunouchi 2-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (72) Inventor Hiroshi Yamanaka 2-3-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo F-term in Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (reference) 5B089 GA11 GA25 HA13 JA16 JB10 KA04 KA13 KB04 KC21 KC44 KG05 LA01 LA07 LB04 LB13 LB14 MC03 5K015 AA00 AB00 AB01 AF05 AF08 GA03 GA07 GA10 JA00 JA01 5K067 AA34 BB04 EE02 EE10 EE16 FF02 HH15 HH16 HH22 HH23

Claims (32)

[Claims] 1. A wireless communication system in which a plurality of communication terminals and a server are connected via a wireless communication line, wherein the server receives a group call holding request from any one of the communication terminals, and responds to the request. By transmitting a holding notification that prompts participation in the group call to all the communication terminals described, and then receiving terminal information from each communication terminal that has prompted the participation, all the participants participating in the group call Participant terminal management means for managing communication terminals; call data synthesis / distribution means for synthesizing call data from each communication terminal participating in the group call and distributing the synthesized data to each communication terminal; And call history recording means for recording a call history as a call history, wherein the communication terminal controls transmission and reception of communication data, If it is desired to hold, a transmission / reception control means for transmitting a group call holding request to a server connected via a wireless communication line, and when participating in a group call in response to a holding notification from the server, A wireless communication system, comprising: own terminal information management means for transmitting own terminal information. The communication history recording means, when receiving a history search request from the communication terminal, searches for a desired call history based on the request content, and sends the search result to the communication terminal. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the communication terminal notifies the user of a call content obtained as a call history by voice or character information. 3. The communication terminal according to claim 1, further comprising: a participant, a holding time,
3. The wireless communication system according to claim 1, further comprising: a call history management unit that stores a call history including a call content and a call content as needed, and registers the stored call history in a server after a group call ends. 4. The call history recording means, when a plurality of users receive a designated history search request from the communication terminal, search for a desired call history based on the request content, and The wireless communication system according to claim 1, wherein the search result is delivered to communication terminals used by the plurality of users. 5. The call history recording means, wherein, upon receiving a withdrawal request from the communication terminal, the contents of a group call continuously performed between other communication terminals are stored in the call history recording means. Record, after the end of the group call, search the desired call history based on the request content,
The wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the search result is returned to the communication terminal that has transmitted the withdrawal request. 6. The participant terminal management means, wherein, when the communication terminal which has urged the participation is unable to receive a call, a holding notice is transmitted by e-mail. If
As a reply mail to participate in the group call,
The wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a request for a normal event other than an electronic mail is requested. 7. If the group call has already ended by the time the communication terminal has sent the reply mail, the call history recording means stores the call history of the group call corresponding to the reply mail as the reply mail source. The wireless communication system according to claim 6, wherein the communication terminal transmits the communication contents obtained as a call history to the user by voice or character information. 8. The participant terminal management means transmits the request when receiving a request to join in the middle of the group call or when receiving a request to withdraw from the group call during the group call. The method according to claim 1, wherein user information on the communication terminal is transmitted to all communication terminals currently participating, and information returned from all the communication terminals is counted to determine whether participation or unsubscription is permitted. Item 8. The wireless communication system according to any one of Items 1 to 7. 9. In a communication terminal used by a user who wants to withdraw from a group call, if the currently held group call is important, the communication terminal may be accidentally disconnected based on a message from the server. The wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein withdrawal from the group call is performed by an operation different from a normal disconnection operation without a call. 10. A communication terminal used by a user participating in a group call, wherein a call is switched by switching between voice input and character input by a predetermined key operation. Item 10. The wireless communication system according to any one of Items 1 to 9. 11. When a communication terminal connected to a group call is illegally disconnected, the communication terminal is connected to the group call again by receiving a reconnection request from the server. The wireless communication system according to claim 1. 12. A communication terminal used by a user who cannot participate in a group call by inputting either of voice and text, and participates in a group call in a reception only mode. A wireless communication system as described. 13. A server to which a plurality of communication terminals are connected via a wireless communication line, wherein the server receives a request for holding a group call from any one of the communication terminals, and sends a request to all communication terminals described in the request. A participation terminal management unit that transmits a holding notification for encouraging participation in the group call, and thereafter receives terminal information from each communication terminal that prompted the participation, thereby managing all communication terminals participating in the group call. A call data synthesizing / distributing means for synthesizing call data from each communication terminal participating in the group call and distributing the synthesized data to each communication terminal; and a call history recording means for recording the call data as a call history And receiving a group call end request from any of the communication terminals during the holding of the group call, and thereafter, At the stage of recording the completion history of calls, the server characterized by cutting the line. 14. The call history recording means, when receiving a history search request from the communication terminal, searches for a desired call history based on the request content, and sends the search result to the communication terminal. 14. The server according to claim 13, wherein the server is returned. 15. The call history recording means, wherein, when a plurality of users receive a designated history search request from the communication terminal, search for a desired call history based on the request content. 15. The server according to claim 13, wherein a search result is delivered to communication terminals used by the plurality of users. 16. The call history recording means, wherein, upon receiving a withdrawal request from the communication terminal, the contents of a group call continuously performed between other communication terminals are stored in the call history recording means. Record, after the end of the group call, search the desired call history based on the request content,
The server according to claim 13, 14 or 15, wherein the search result is returned to the communication terminal that has transmitted the withdrawal request. 17. The participant terminal management means, wherein, if the communication terminal that has urged participation is unable to receive a call, a holding notice is transmitted by e-mail.
17. The server according to any one of items 16 to 16. 18. The method according to claim 18, wherein when the reply mail from the communication terminal has been received, the call history of the group call corresponding to the reply mail is obtained. 18. The server according to claim 17, wherein the server sends the reply mail to the communication terminal of the sender. 19. The participant terminal management means transmits the request when receiving a request to join in the middle of a group call or when receiving a request to withdraw from a group call during a group call. The method according to claim 1, wherein user information on the communication terminal is transmitted to all communication terminals currently participating, and information returned from all the communication terminals is counted to determine whether participation or unsubscription is permitted. Item 19. The server according to any one of Items 13 to 18. 20. Transmission / reception control for controlling transmission / reception of communication data in a group call and transmitting a group call holding request to a server connected via a wireless communication line when a group call is desired. A communication terminal comprising: means; and own terminal information management means for transmitting own terminal information when participating in a group call in response to a holding notification from the server. 21. The transmission / reception control means, wherein, when a call history is searched, a history search request is transmitted to the server, and thereafter, the call content obtained as the call history is transmitted by voice or character information. The communication terminal according to claim 20, wherein the communication terminal notifies the user. 22. A call history for storing a call history including a participant, a holding time, and a call content at any time during the holding of the group call, and registering the saved call history in a server after the end of the group call. 22. The communication terminal according to claim 20, further comprising a management unit. 23. The transmission / reception control means, wherein when a call history distribution is desired, a history search request specifying a plurality of users is transmitted to the server. 23. The communication terminal according to 21 or 22. 24. The transmission / reception control means, wherein when a request for withdrawal of the group call is desired, a withdrawal request is transmitted to the server.
The communication terminal according to any one of 0 to 23. 25. The transmission / reception control means, wherein, when the event notification from the server is an e-mail, requesting a normal event notification other than e-mail as a reply e-mail for participating in the group call. The communication terminal according to any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein: 26. A group call control method in a state where a plurality of communication terminals and a server are connected via a wireless communication line, wherein the server receives a group call holding request from any one of the communication terminals. Receiving, transmitting a holding notice urging participation in the group call to all the communication terminals described in the request, and thereafter receiving terminal information from each communication terminal that urged the participation, the group call Participating terminal management step of managing all communication terminals participating in, a call data distribution step of combining call data from each communication terminal participating in the group call, and delivering the combined data to each communication terminal, A call history recording step of recording the call data as a call history; and Receive group call termination request from, then at the stage of recording the ending history related to the group call, group call control method characterized by comprising: a group call termination step of cutting the line. 27. The server, when receiving a history search request from the communication terminal, searches for a desired call history based on the request content, and returns the search result to the communication terminal. 27. The group call control method according to claim 26, further comprising: a communication history searching step. 28. In the server, when a plurality of users receive a designated history search request from the communication terminal, a desired call history is searched based on the request contents, and the search is performed. 28. The group call control method according to claim 26, further comprising a communication history distribution step of distributing a result to communication terminals used by the plurality of users. 29. In the server, when receiving a withdrawal request from the communication terminal, the server continuously records the contents of the group call performed between the other communication terminals in the call history recording step. Recording, after the group call, a communication history return step of searching for a desired call history based on the request content, and returning the search result to the communication terminal of the transmission source of the withdrawal request. The group call control method according to claim 26, 27 or 28. 30. The server further comprising: a mail holding notice sending step of sending the holding notice again by e-mail to a communication terminal that cannot receive a call in the holding notice sending process. The group call control method according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein: 31. In the server, if the group call has already ended when the reply mail from the communication terminal is received, a call history of the group call corresponding to the reply mail is returned. 31. The transmission to the communication terminal of the mail transmission source.
The group call control method described in 1. 32. The server, when receiving a request to join in the middle of a group call or receiving a withdrawal request from a group call during a group call, sends the request. A step of transmitting user information on the communication terminal to all currently participating communication terminals and counting information returned from all of the communication terminals to determine whether participation or unsubscription is permitted; The group call control method according to any one of claims 26 to 31, comprising: